Description:
The Virginia Zoo, founded in 1901, is located in Norfolk, VA and is home to more than 700 animals representing over 150 species. It resides on 53 acres and is mostly outdoors with an indoor World of Reptiles exhibit, 3 classrooms, and an indoor restaurant and gift shop.
The Digital & Marketing Specialist at the Virginia Zoo contributes to the success of marketing campaigns and visual collateral needs. D&M Specialists partner and support various Zoo departments to effectively communicate the mission of the Virginia Zoo to its audience.
This is a full time, non-exempt position. This position reports to the Director of Communications.

SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines with multiple projects ongoing.
• Excellent writer with strong media relations and pitching skills.
• Ability to be a self-starter, creative thinker, and team player.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Constant Contact, and WordPress and project management and collaboration tools such as Trello, Google Docs, Dropbox, and others.
• Experience with creative tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and CapCut preferred.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s Degree with degree/concentration in communications, marketing, advertising, or public relation, or equivalent experience in related field.
• Experience working at a PR/Marketing firm and/or tourism or animal-related organization preferred.
• Experience with print, broadcast, and online mediums, including social and mobile media channels.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to maintain a professional appearance and manner.
• Ability to work in a team environment or alone for extended periods of time.
• Able to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.

Public Relations

• Write press releases as instructed by the Director of Communication.
• Outreach to media outlets, organizations, associations, and interest groups to obtain media highlights for Virginia Zoo.
• Assist in identifying community partners for photo shoots, editorials, and promotional work.
• Scan monthly zoo and aquarium publications for Virginia Zoo mentions for Marketing updates.
• Respond to incoming media related inquires.
• Act as representative and spokesperson in various media channels as assigned by the Director of Communications.