Director of Communications

Position Overview: The Director of Communications leads the strategic messaging and storytelling for the Arkansas Conference. This role focuses on nurturing connections between the Conference, neighbors in our communities, leaders of our local churches and our members, by developing a shared identity rooted in United Methodist witness. Reporting to the Director of Administrative Services, this leader serves as an advisor to the Bishop, Cabinet, and program staff ensuring our messaging is clear, consistent and serves as an invitation to deeper community and mission.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement an integrated communications strategy aligned with the ARUMC mission, values, strategic plan in consultation with conference leadership
• Serve as an advisor to the Bishop, Executive team, and Cabinet on communication, public relations, and brand management
• Create and oversee website content, social media channels, email marketing, and digital storytelling
• Foster a culture of creativity by identifying and cultivating a network of volunteer content creators from across the conference to share the diverse voices of our community
• Maintain a recognizable and professional visual presence (logos, color schemes, and messaging) that reflects the spirit of the United Methodist Church
• Advise local churches, laity and conference staff on communication best practices and offer a steady, graceful voice during times of crisis
• Monitor emerging technologies to find new ways to nurture connection and outreach in an ever-changing digital landscape

Administrative Duties:

• Attend Annual Conference (dates in mid-June) and serve on the planning team
• Manage ARUMC Communication budget
• Participate in quarterly program staff meetings and collaborative planning sessions

Supervision:

• This position will directly report to the Director of Administrative Services
• Provides leadership and direction to contract writers, designers, and editors, and coordinates specific tasks for the Administrative Assistant related to communication projects

Qualifications & Skills Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in a communications-related field
• A deep, active commitment to the Christian faith and a profound understanding of United Methodist theology, polity, and the specific culture of the Arkansas Conference
• A proven ability to communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences and inspire others toward ministry
• Experience in “cultivating the community”—finding and empowering others to share their gifts and stories.
• Technical Proficiency with graphic design and video editing platforms, such as Canva, Photoshop, Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro, etc.

Start Date: May 15, 2026
Compensation: $60,000 – $70,000 based on experience

To apply, please contact Todd Burris at tburris@arumc.org.