About RIZE
RIZE Massachusetts (RIZE) is an independent non-profit foundation working to end the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts and reduce its devastating impact on people, communities, and the economy. Launched in 2017, RIZE is the result of visionary, influential providers, payers, unions, and advocates coming together to address the alarming increase in OUD and overdose in Massachusetts. These founding partners convened with their public counterparts to develop and fund an operational platform on which a small, expert team has generated close to $25 million for prevention and treatment services, research, and convenings. RIZE continues to make great strides as the only foundation dedicated solely to funding solutions to end the opioid crisis across the state. In its work to fuel evidenced-based, scalable, and coordinated initiatives, RIZE embraces innovation, connectivity, collaboration, and inclusivity – ensuring that those with lived experience are members of this partnership. RIZE employees are hosted by Mass General Brigham, a founding member of RIZE.
Position Summary
The Associate Engagement Officer (AEO) will develop, lead, and execute a comprehensive, proactive public affairs and communications program that advances the organization’s mission and strategic initiatives through brand awareness, stakeholder engagement, and multi-channel content development and deployment. A proven strategic influencer and relationship manager with a results orientation, this individual will report to the president & CEO with a dotted line to the chief development officer, serving as a thought partner in enhancing relationships with elected/appointed officials, business leaders, RIZE Board of Directors, media, and other external stakeholders. The AEO works collaboratively with the program and development functions to support RIZE’s agenda.
RIZE seeks someone for this position who is passionate about ending the overdose crisis and unafraid of new ideas. Success will require a positive, can-do, learning mindset and a collaborative, team-oriented approach. We are looking for candidates who understand how complex and interconnected issues, such as the social determinants of health, funding, political environments, and economics intersect with addressing the overdose crisis. The AEO is a full-time, hybrid role currently working two days in the office and three days remote. RIZE is in downtown Boston and occasional travel, primarily in-state, will be required for meetings and events as needed. The role may require evening and occasional weekend work.
Primary Responsibilities
Communications (40%)
• Develop, implement, and evaluate a robust and creative communications and engagement plan.
• Communicate RIZE’s actions and policies clearly, protecting and enhancing its reputation and standing.
• Provide strategic communications support to RIZE’s leadership team, ensuring effective and consistent communications across stakeholder groups.
• Work with media consultants and management to proactively seek opportunities to promote RIZE’s work to key stakeholders, leveraging multi-media and digital communications vehicles and by positioning its leaders and subject-matter experts in local, regional, national news.
• Identify opportunities, draft and submit abstracts for academic and industry conferences and events.
• Collaborate with staff to develop and execute events, learning communities, and workshops including managing speakers, writing talking points and scripts, and developing communication plans.
• Write and edit a variety of communications deliverables including strategic memos, press releases, board summaries, website updates, and social media posts.
• In partnership with the chief development officer, manage development, distribution, and maintenance of all print and electronic collateral including, but not limited to, newsletters, brochures, annual reports, e-newsletters, website.
• In partnership with the chief development officer, coordinate work of outside contract consultants/agencies.
• Work with operations team to ensure integrity of website and e-communication/e-blast dissemination; and in managing and updating social media accounts; CRM, and website activity.
External Affairs (40%)
• In partnership with the president & CEO, develop and manage RIZE’s strategy for strengthening relationships with elected officials and government agencies to increase their understanding and support of RIZE; coordinate the work of contract lobbyists.
• Monitor related state and federal legislative and budgetary activities and prepare recommendations and reports for consideration by the president & CEO and other members of the team.
• Develop strong working relationships with business representatives, individuals, community boards, advocacy and civic groups, and government officials.
• Collaborate with representatives of stakeholder organizations to advance shared public policy priorities and create an active network of support for common agendas.
• Represent RIZE at public and agency meetings, State House, legislative hearings, in local communities, and other forums to promote its mission and agenda.
• Keep abreast of emerging trends impacting the opioid overdose epidemic and political and social environments. Continuously evaluate these influences and recommend updates or refinements to communications/engagement strategies and key messaging as needed.
• Communicate RIZE’s actions and policies clearly, protecting and enhancing its reputation and standing.
• Develop a wide range of materials in support of the legislative agenda, such as testimony, talking points, fact sheets, reports, legislative summaries, letters, and press releases.
Board Engagement (20%)
• Work with president & CEO to ensure consistent and frequent communication, stewardship, and relationship management of the Board of Directors.
• Design and manage board meeting content, including identification/coordination of guest speakers and presentations and team contributions to the “Board Book.” Coordinate with office manager on board meeting logistics.
Qualifications
• BA/BS degree with a minimum of 5 years’ progressive work experience in communications, nonprofit, or public/government affairs.
• Experience developing and implementing external affairs and communications strategies, including planning and execution, stakeholder identification, creative concept development, strategic messaging/positioning, and performance measurement.
• Experience promoting a brand/mission, writing, editing, and delivering clear messaging and content across online digital, social, and traditional channels.
• Knowledge of inner workings of Massachusetts state government, policymaking, and budgetary processes, including key legislative committees, legislators and staff, Executive Office, line agencies, and key staff.
• Experience identifying and cultivating relationships with coalition partners, NGOs, and influential industry players (e.g., industry associations and advocacy groups).
• A willingness to do whatever is needed in a small, start-up organization.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, impact-driven environment.
• Knowledge MS Office. Knowledge of SalesForce, Constant Contact, Zoom, and WordPress is a plus.
Skills, Abilities, Attributes
• Effective relationship-builder with superb interpersonal skills and an authentic comfort with a wide range of individuals and groups; able to listen, consider, and assimilate input and offer plans, solutions, and deliverables that align interests.
• High energy, maturity, and leadership with the ability to serve as a unifying force at both strategic and tactical levels.
• Sincere commitment to working collaboratively with all constituent groups, including staff, board members, donors, program participants, and other supporters.
• Entrepreneurial self-starter who enjoys creating and implementing new initiatives.
• Demonstrated track record of sustained high-quality, independent work in fast-paced environments.
• Highly organized with effective project and time management skills; able to establish and focus on key priorities and deliverables while managing competing demands for time and attention.
• Comfortable representing the organization with external stakeholders, speaking in public, and giving presentations.
• Highly collaborative work style.
• Sophisticated and politically savvy; demonstrated ability to navigate unchartered territory.
• Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential or sensitive information.
• Motivated by a keen sense of mission and values with a willingness to embrace and actively support RIZE’s agenda.
Special Requirements
• Work is performed in an office setting with a hybrid schedule. Occasional state-wide travel for off-site meetings and events.
#LI-Hybrid
EEO Statement
Mass General Brigham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
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