Lead Communications Specialist

# Lead Communications Specialist

RIZE Massachusetts Foundation###

Job Description
** Background
* * RIZE Massachusetts Foundation (RIZE), launched in 2017, is the only public-private partnership dedicated to ending the overdose crisis. Guided by those with lived experience and unafraid of new ideas, RIZE is building networks, creating programming, and supporting community partners using novel approaches to preventing overdose and increasing access to treatment. Since its inception, RIZE has awarded over $30 million to more than 275 organizations aligned with its mission.

Our multifaceted strategy is designed to address the complexity and enormity of the crisis and will only be effective if based on evolving realities on the ground. We listen to and learn from our partners, monitor the success of our collaborations, and hold each other accountable toward a shared vision of "Zero stigma. Zero deaths." Our work is iterative, designed to support and expand upon our focus areas to maximize impact.

We are a learning organization that consistently evaluates progress toward our short-term and long-term goals, so we are committed to regular strategic planning. RIZE's vision is that our funding will lead to meaningful and positive results in addressing not just the immediate crisis of fatal opioid overdoses but will also improve alignment among the overall addiction treatment ecosystem and evidence-based addiction treatment and recovery  2024, the Healey-Driscoll Administration selected RIZE to create and manage (Mosaic).  

Funded by the MA Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund and the MA Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, Mosaic is a unique public-private partnership that allows small, community-based organizations and municipalities to apply for settlement funds. It is specifically designed to support communities and populations that have been historically underserved and have experienced a higher rate of opioid-related overdose deaths.

Mosaic is community-led and culturally responsive, aimed at reaching individuals and families affected by the opioid overdose epidemic. The grants, approximately $5 million annually, strengthen prevention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, trauma, and family support programs. In 2025, RIZE also assumed the training and technical assistance program for municipalities. receiving opioid abatement funds. This unites all Mosaic programs in a cohesive, coordinated way, creating a powerful impact on our communities.
** Position Overview
** The lead communications specialist is responsible for developing and implementing proactive, strategic communication and project management strategies to support the organization's mission, initiatives, and programs. This role is crucial for coordinating efforts across the organization by anticipating communication needs, aligning timelines, and collaborating closely with all RIZE departments to ensure that communications are timely, intentional, and effective.

As a key internal liaison between departments and an external representative between RIZE, its partners, and constituents, this role ensures consistency, clarity, and cohesion in messaging. Responsibilities include managing social media, maintaining websites, and creating engaging content such as press releases and newsletters. RIZE has multiple sub-brands and initiatives in its portfolio, each with its own unique identity and style guide.

This position reports to the chief advancement officer and works closely with the chief executive officer.  It is a full-time, hybrid role with the expectation of two days in the office. RIZE is in downtown Boston, and occasional travel, primarily in-state, will be required for meetings and events as needed. This role may require evening and occasional weekend work.
** Key Responsibilities**:

General:

- Develop, implement, and evaluate a robust and creative communications and engagement plan.

- Coordinate work of outside contract consultants/agencies.

- Proactively seek opportunities to promote RIZE’s work to key stakeholders, leveraging multi-media and digital communications vehicles, and by positioning its leaders and…