Operations and Communications Manager

The Rockfall Foundation

SALARIED

(exempt)

Name of Position:

Operations and Communications Manager

Position Summary:

Works closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and volunteer committee members and other volunteers, in all aspects of Rockfall’s mission and operations, with specific responsibilities for managing Rockfall’s office and de Koven House Community Center operations. In addition, is responsible for the administration of the grants, marketing, and development programs. The position requires some weekend and evening hours, with flexible compensated time, to support events and operations.

The Rockfall Foundation supports environmental education and conservation in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. As one of Connecticut’s oldest environmental organizations, its mission is to be a catalyst—bringing people together and supporting organizations to conserve and enhance the region’s natural environment.

Rockfall, located at the historic de Koven House in downtown Middletown, presents and sponsors educational programs throughout the year, including the Rockfall Symposia, forums and workshops, a film series, family hikes, repair cafes, and informal networking opportunities; and awards annual grants, environmental awards, and scholarships. Rockfall also hosts other nonprofits in its office spaces and provides meeting space for community organizations and private functions.

• Minimum of five years’ experience in an operations manager’s capacity, preferably in the non-profit sector or equivalent
• Ability to handle and prioritize multiple projects and tasks
• Ability to work independently
• Knowledge of and interest in environmental issues
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Proficiency with computer applications and office systems (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Quick Books, Publisher, Canva, and donor database systems)
• Proficiency with Word Press, Constant Contact, Mail Chimp, and social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, and Instagram)
• Basic videography skills
• Associate’s degree or higher

RESPONSIBLE TO:
Executive Director

• Assist with event planning, including coordinating with partners, creating registration forms, and managing logistics for speakers, volunteers, and attendees
• Collaborate with the Program Committee to brainstorm and implement new, creative event ideas that expand community engagement in the environmental space
• Attend all events to provide on-site support, including capturing photos and videos
• Design flyers, cover images, website features, and other marketing materials for events
• Publish event details across platforms, including the website, Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, and partner networks
• Distribute announcements and press releases about Rockfall programs (grants, scholarships, awards, etc.) to media outlets and community organizations
• Identify new partnerships and creative marketing strategies to expand event visibility and attendance

• Receive, organize, and distribute grant applications to the Grants Committee
• Create and monitor grant contracts; track and receive grant reports
• Maintain grant files, spreadsheets, and records of applications, contracts, and reports
• Handle routine correspondence with applicants and potential applicants
• Schedule grant site visits and document with photos and videos
• Manage grant outreach and publicity

• Manage and update donor and other Rockfall databases
• Accurately document all donations in Little Green Light or similar software
• Document and acknowledge gifts, donations, and memberships; generate reports
• Initiate membership renewal requests, track responses, and monitor success rates
• Partner with the Development Committee to develop donor appeals and membership perks

• Provide general administrative staff support for all committees
• Prepare materials for committee and Board meetings
• Attend meetings and prepare Board minutes and committee reports
• Maintain clear communication with the Board, staff, and committees

• Develop an automated system for requests…