Senior Communication Specialist - Chicago, IL

Senior Communication Specialist - Chicago, IL

Post Date:
Jan 21, 2026

Location:

Chicago, IL, US, 60661

Position Type:
Full Time

Requisition Number: 33824

Work Schedule:

Monday - Friday (Hybrid - 3 days in office)

The Senior Communications Specialist will lead and execute strategic communication initiatives for Gateway Foundation.

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to promote Gateway Foundation's mission, programs, and achievements.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, influencers, and key stakeholders to secure positive coverage and build brand awareness.
• Create compelling and targeted content for press releases, website, social media, newsletters, internal communications and other platforms.
• Manage and safeguard Gateway Foundation's image and reputation by implementing initiatives to address public perception, mitigate negative sentiment, and enhance positive brand representation.
• Oversee the planning and execution of events, conferences, and other public relations activities. Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with organizational goals.
• Monitor media trends and industry news to identify opportunities and risks, providing timely insights to leadership.
• Develop, manage, and maintain targeted local and national media lists, contacts, and influencers to enhance the organization's media presence and ensure swift, accurate outreach during crisis communications and urgent response scenarios.
• Measure and analyze the effectiveness of communication strategies and adjust plans accordingly.
• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends in public relations and communications.

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• 5+ years' experience in communications and public relations, preferably in the nonprofit or healthcare sector.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with an ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated success in securing positive media coverage and managing media relationships.
• Proficiency in using various communication tools, social media platforms, and content creation software.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to align communication efforts with organizational goals.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across departments.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the organization's image.

• Ability to lift up to 10 - 20 pounds to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects such as files and other office materials.
• May be required to stoop and bend when handling computer equipment, troubleshooting system problems, etc.
• Occasional travel to assist with the coordination of events.

Works in an office or clinical environment where there are relatively few discomforts due to dust, dirt, noise and the like. Occasional exposure to contagious diseases, but potential for harm is limited if established safety precautions and infection control procedures are followed.

Compensation (based on experience and credentials):

• Range is between $60,664 - $94,498 annually
• Gateway Foundation conducts annual reviews including merit increases.

Health and Wellness:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health

Financial wellbeing:

• 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match
• Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Gateway
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexibility and time off:

• 18 paid time off days per year - accrual rates increase with years of service
• 9 paid company holidays
• Work-life-balance

Personal Development:

• Training & Development Programs
• Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year
• eLearning access to online courses that provide CEUs and job-related training
• Clinical Supervision:
  Formal and informal guidance

Gateway Foundation is an Equal Opportunity

Employer:

Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here.

Nearest Major Market: Chicago