Chapter Four: Communications Committee Roles

Chapter Four: Communications Committee Roles

Member Roles

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Communications Committee Member

Position Title (Role):	Communications Committee Member
Location:	Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule:	1–2 hours per week
Function:	Communications
Family:	Communications
Reports to:	Communications Committee Chair

Job Structure (Classification)	Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level:	Core
Functional Knowledge	Requires foundational understanding of communications, marketing, or member engagement principles. Demonstrates the ability to use SAVMA communication tools such as MailChimp, Canva, WordPress, or social media platforms to support the association’s outreach and brand presence.
Problem Solving and Complexity	Requires the ability to identify and resolve routine communication and content challenges. Applies sound judgment when adapting messaging for tone, accuracy, and accessibility. Seeks guidance for brand, strategic, or sensitive messaging.
Autonomy and Decision-Making	Operate independently within assigned communications tasks and projects. Decision-making authority is limited to standard procedures and established brand guidelines. Collaborate with the Committee Chair on final approvals.
Scope and Impact	Contributes to SAVMA’s visibility, member engagement, and public perception by developing and disseminating accurate, timely, and relevant communications. Enhances the organization’s professional reputation and member connection to the field of volunteer engagement.
Leadership and Influence	Serves as an ambassador for SAVMA’s voice and message consistency across multiple platforms. Provides input on messaging strategy, content tone, and emerging communication tools.
Core Competencies:	Written/digital communication Design & visual communication Brand stewardship Social media literacy Attention to detail Data tracking (digital metrics) Technology adaptability

Position Purpose:	To support SAVMA’s mission by assisting in the development and delivery of communications that inform, engage, and inspire members and the broader community. Communications Committee Members play an essential role in creating, curating, and distributing content that reflects SAVMA’s programs, values, and impact across Southern Arizona.
Responsibilities:	Assist in drafting, editing, and scheduling content for SAVMA newsletters, blog posts, and social media. Maintain brand consistency across all communications using SAVMA’s templates, fonts, and color palette. Support the promotion of SAVMA programs, events, and initiatives in collaboration with other committees. Review materials for clarity, tone, and accessibility before publication. Attend committee meetings, contribute to discussions, and assist in implementing the annual communications plan. Track assigned deliverables and assist with content scheduling through shared tools (e.g., MailChimp calendar, WordPress posts, or social media planners). Identify opportunities for improved engagement, analytics, and visibility through data-informed feedback.
Required Qualifications:	Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values. Interest in communications, marketing, public relations, or writing. Ability to communicate clearly and collaboratively in a team environment. Basic computer literacy and familiarity with shared document platforms. Active membership in SAVMA
Preferred Qualifications:	Experience with one or more communication tools (e.g., MailChimp, Canva, WordPress, or social media scheduling software). Writing, editing, or design experience in nonprofit, association, or marketing settings.
Skills and Abilities:	Clear and concise writing and editing. Organization, time management, and attention to deadlines. Collaboration and reliability in volunteer-led environments. Adaptability to emerging communication tools and trends. Creativity balanced with adherence to brand guidelines.
Start Date:	January 1
End Date:	February 28
Length of Appointment:	Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Communications Committee Chair.

Social Media Manager

Position Title (Role):	Social Media Manager
Location:	Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule:	1–2 hours per week
Function:	Communications
Family:	Social Media & Engagement
Reports to:	Communications Committee Chair

Job Structure (Classification)	Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level:	Core
Functional Knowledge	Requires foundational understanding of social media communication, audience engagement, and content planning. Demonstrates ability to use SAVMA’s communication tools (e.g., Facebook, LinkedIn, and scheduling platforms) to advance the organization’s mission and visibility.
Problem Solving and Complexity	Applies sound judgment to select, adapt, and post relevant content. Identifies opportunities for increased engagement and visibility while maintaining a professional and inclusive tone. Recognizes when to escalate member questions or comments requiring official responses.
Autonomy and Decision-Making	Operates independently within established brand standards and content guidelines. Exercises judgment in daily posting and scheduling, while major campaigns and messaging are coordinated with the Communications Committee Chair.
Scope and Impact	Shapes SAVMA’s digital presence and member engagement through consistent, brand-aligned social media activity. Expands the reach of SAVMA’s programs, advocacy, and professional development opportunities across platforms.
Leadership and Influence	Serves as SAVMA’s digital ambassador and tone-setter on social media. Collaborates with the Committee Chair, Graphic Designer, and Blog Content Writer to ensure cohesive storytelling and cross-promotion of SAVMA activities.
Core Competencies:	Written/digital communication Design & visual communication Brand stewardship Social media literacy Attention to detail Data tracking (digital metrics) Technology adaptability

Position Purpose:	To manage SAVMA’s social media presence by creating, scheduling, and monitoring posts that inform, engage, and inspire members and the community. The Social Media Manager ensures that SAVMA’s digital communications are professional, consistent, and aligned with organizational priorities and brand standards.
Responsibilities:	Create and schedule posts on SAVMA’s social media platforms (primarily Facebook and LinkedIn). Engage with SAVMA’s online community through comments, reactions, and sharing relevant partner content. Collaborate with the Communications Committee to develop monthly content calendars and coordinate campaigns. Partner with the Graphic Designer to produce visually consistent content using SAVMA’s templates and brand palette. Support promotion of programs, membership benefits, awards, and events. Track and report basic engagement metrics (reach, reactions, shares, clicks) to inform committee strategy. Monitor messages and comments, forwarding member or public inquiries to the appropriate SAVMA contact. Stay current with emerging social media trends, accessibility standards, and best practices in nonprofit communications.
Required Qualifications:	Active SAVMA membership. Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values. Basic understanding of social media management and community engagement. Excellent written communication and attention to detail. Ability to represent SAVMA professionally online.
Preferred Qualifications:	Experience managing organizational social media accounts. Familiarity with Canva, Meta Business Suite, or other scheduling tools. Understanding of nonprofit or association communications.
Skills and Abilities:	Strong organization and consistency in posting. Clear and concise writing style. Creativity and adaptability. Collaboration and teamwork within a volunteer-led environment. Responsiveness and accountability to deadlines.
Start Date:	January 1
End Date:	February 28
Length of Appointment:	Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Communications Committee Chair.

MailChimp Lead

Position Title (Role):	MailChimp Lead
Location:	Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule:	1–2 hours per week
Function:	Communications
Family:	Digital Communications
Reports to:	Communications Committee Chair

Job Structure (Classification)	Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level:	Core
Functional Knowledge	Requires foundational knowledge of email marketing, audience engagement, and digital communication strategies. Demonstrates understanding of SAVMA’s mission, brand standards, and member communication priorities.
Problem Solving and Complexity	Requires the ability to organize content, apply formatting and design for readability, and troubleshoot familiar layout or delivery issues. Uses sound judgment when editing for clarity, tone, and alignment with SAVMA’s voice. Escalates technical or policy issues to the Committee Chair as needed.
Autonomy and Decision-Making	Operates independently to compile, format, and distribute SAVMA email communications within approved timelines. Decision-making authority is limited to content organization and layout, with final approval from the Committee Chair before distribution.
Scope and Impact	Directly supports SAVMA’s communications strategy by ensuring timely, accurate, and visually consistent delivery of email communications to members, partners, and the public. Enhances member engagement, retention, and program participation through professional-quality messaging.
Leadership and Influence	Serves as the primary point of contact for SAVMA’s email communication platform (MailChimp). Advises committee members on scheduling, formatting, and accessibility best practices to ensure consistent, user-friendly communication.
Core Competencies:	Written/digital communication Design & visual communication Brand stewardship Social media literacy Attention to detail Data tracking (digital metrics) Technology adaptability

Position Purpose:	To coordinate SAVMA’s member and public email communications through MailChimp, ensuring timely, professional, and accessible delivery of newsletters, announcements, and event reminders. The MailChimp Lead supports a consistent brand voice and strengthens member engagement with accurate, relevant, and compelling content.
Responsibilities:	Compile, edit, and send SAVMA’s monthly newsletter in collaboration with the Communications Committee. Develop and maintain an annual email schedule aligned with the SAVMA events calendar and communication strategy. Ensure all messages adhere to SAVMA’s brand guidelines, including logos, color palette, and font consistency. Collaborate with the Blog Content Writer and Program & Events Committee to feature key articles, events, and announcements. Create and maintain reusable MailChimp templates for newsletters and special announcements. Ensure compliance with CAN-SPAM and data protection standards for member communications. Track key analytics (open rates, click rates, engagement trends) and share monthly summaries with the Committee Chair. Manage the subscriber list, including segmentation, updates, and subscription form maintenance. Coordinate special edition messages (e.g., event reminders, voting notices, or award announcements) as requested.
Required Qualifications:	Active SAVMA membership. Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values. Strong writing and editing skills with attention to detail. Basic familiarity with email platforms such as MailChimp, Constant Contact, or similar tools. Ability to meet deadlines and manage recurring schedules.
Preferred Qualifications:	Experience in email marketing, communications, or nonprofit outreach. Familiarity with Canva, Google Workspace, and website content coordination. Understanding of accessibility practices for digital communication (contrast, alt-text, and layout).
Skills and Abilities:	Clear written communication and proofreading. Organization, accuracy, and consistency. Collaboration and accountability within a team environment. Ability to synthesize information from multiple sources. Comfort with digital tools and willingness to learn new systems.
Start Date:	January 1
End Date:	February 28
Length of Appointment:	Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Communications Committee Chair.

Graphic Designer

Position Title (Role):	Graphic Designer
Location:	Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule:	1–2 hours per week
Function:	Communications
Family:	Creative and Design
Reports to:	Communications Committee Chair

Job Structure (Classification)	Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level:	Core
Functional Knowledge	Requires foundational knowledge of graphic design principles, visual communication, and brand consistency. Demonstrates the ability to create digital and print materials aligned with SAVMA’s branding guidelines, tone, and mission.
Problem Solving and Complexity	Requires the ability to translate ideas and written content into clear, professional, and accessible visuals. Identifies and resolves challenges related to design layout, image quality, or formatting across platforms.
Autonomy and Decision-Making	Operates independently on assigned design tasks within established brand standards. Exercises professional judgment to propose design solutions, with the Communications Committee Chair providing final approval on all published materials.
Scope and Impact	Contributes directly to SAVMA’s visibility, member engagement, and brand reputation through effective design. Ensures all SAVMA materials are visually cohesive, accessible, and reflective of the organization’s professional image and values.
Leadership and Influence	Serves as a creative ambassador for SAVMA’s visual identity, providing design input and supporting committee-wide collaboration to ensure professional and consistent communication materials.
Core Competencies:	Written/digital communication Design & visual communication Brand stewardship Social media literacy Attention to detail Data tracking (digital metrics) Technology adaptability

Position Purpose:	To design and produce visual content that enhances SAVMA’s communications, programs, and member engagement efforts. The Graphic Designer creates materials that communicate SAVMA’s mission, promote events, and maintain consistent branding across digital and print platforms.
Responsibilities:	Create and edit graphics for SAVMA’s digital and print content, including newsletters, social media posts, blog banners, flyers, and event materials. Ensure all designs meet SAVMA’s established brand guidelines (color palette, typography, and logo standards). Collaborate with the Social Media Manager, MailChimp Lead, and Committee Chair to ensure timely production of materials for scheduled campaigns. Adapt existing templates for recurring events and announcements to streamline production. Maintain accessibility in design (readable text, color contrast, alt text, and layout structure). Organize and manage design files in shared drives for easy access and version control. Proactively suggest creative improvements for SAVMA’s visual communications.
Required Qualifications:	Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values. Basic understanding of design and visual communication principles. Ability to manage multiple design projects within deadlines. Strong attention to detail and adherence to brand standards.
Preferred Qualifications:	Active SAVMA membership. Experience with design software or platforms such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar tools. Familiarity with nonprofit marketing, social media, or digital communications. Understanding of accessibility and inclusive design best practices.
Skills and Abilities:	Creativity and visual storytelling. Organizational and time management skills. Collaboration and communication within a team environment. Adaptability and responsiveness to feedback. Commitment to professionalism and continuous improvement.
Start Date:	January 1
End Date:	February 28
Length of Appointment:	Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Communications Committee Chair.

Blog Content Writer

Position Title (Role):	Blog Content Writer
Location:	Tucson, AZ (various, in-person and remote locations)
Time Commitment and Schedule:	1–2 hours per week
Function:	Communications
Family:	Creative and Design
Reports to:	Communications Committee Chair

Job Structure (Classification)	Volunteer- Individual Contributor
Job Level:	Expert
Functional Knowledge	Requires advanced knowledge of writing, content strategy, and digital communication. Demonstrates expertise in developing compelling narratives, synthesizing industry trends, and creating content aligned with professional standards. Applies deep understanding of audience engagement, storytelling, and nonprofit communication practices.
Problem Solving and Complexity	Identifies and communicates timely, relevant topics for the SAVMA audience. Applies sound judgment in writing and editing content for accuracy, inclusivity, and professional tone. Recognizes when to seek input on sensitive or technical subject matter.
Autonomy and Decision-Making	Operates independently within assigned writing tasks and editorial deadlines. Decision-making authority is limited to the creation of original content and recommendations for topics or structure, with final approval from the Communications Committee Chair.
Scope and Impact	Supports SAVMA’s visibility, thought leadership, and professional community by developing content that informs, inspires, and connects members. Enhances the association’s reputation as a local and regional leader in volunteer engagement practice.
Leadership and Influence	Acts as a storyteller and advocate for the field of volunteer engagement. Strengthens SAVMA’s voice by highlighting member experiences, best practices, and trends relevant to Volunteer Engagement Professionals (VEPs).
Core Competencies:	Written/digital communication Design & visual communication Brand stewardship Social media literacy Attention to detail Data tracking (digital metrics) Technology adaptability

Position Purpose:	To develop written content for the SAVMA blog that highlights stories, trends, and insights relevant to Volunteer Engagement Professionals in Southern Arizona. The Blog Content Writer contributes to SAVMA’s mission by producing thoughtful, informative, and shareable articles that advance the field and celebrate the work of its members.
Responsibilities:	Write and submit original blog posts for the SAVMA website on assigned or proposed topics related to volunteer engagement, nonprofit leadership, or member initiatives. Collaborate with the Communications Committee to develop an annual editorial calendar aligned with SAVMA’s strategic plan, programs, and campaigns. Research and reference credible sources to ensure factual accuracy and professional integrity. Interview members, partners, or community leaders for feature articles when appropriate. Ensure all writing reflects SAVMA’s voice, tone, and brand standards, including accessibility and inclusivity. Coordinate with the MailChimp Lead to ensure new posts are featured in newsletters. Review analytics or feedback data to improve future content relevance and engagement. Attend Communications Committee meetings as needed to align messaging with organizational priorities.
Required Qualifications:	Commitment to SAVMA’s mission and values. Strong written communication skills and attention to detail. Ability to meet deadlines and follow editorial guidelines. Basic familiarity with digital publishing or online collaboration tools.
Preferred Qualifications:	Active SAVMA membership. Experience with WordPress or other blogging platforms. Knowledge of volunteer engagement, nonprofit operations, or professional development topics. Prior experience writing for professional or public audiences.
Skills and Abilities:	Clear, concise, and inclusive writing style. Creativity in topic development and storytelling. Organization and time management. Collaboration and adaptability in a team environment. Commitment to factual accuracy and ethical communication.
Start Date:	January 1
End Date:	February 28
Length of Appointment:	Thirteen-month renewable term, appointed by the Communications Committee Chair.