OCCU is a member-owned credit union based in Eugene, Oregon, guided by a clear and meaningful vision: to Enrich Lives. This purpose drives everything we do—from how we serve our members to how we support one another as colleagues. With a strong commitment to community impact, OCCU lives its values of tenacity, humility and big-heartedness every day.

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Communications and Public Relations Manager to lead OCCU's communications function and help shape how we connect with employees, members, media partners, community organizations and other key stakeholders. This is a remote opportunity for candidates residing in Oregon. The salary range for this role is $107,477 - $134,347, depending on experience.

About the Role:

The Communications and Public Relations Manager serves as a trusted advisor to leaders across the organization and plays a key role in shaping OCCU's voice, reputation and communication strategy. This position leads a team of communications professionals while overseeing internal communications, member communications, public relations, media engagement, change communications and enterprise messaging initiatives.

The ideal candidate is a strategic communicator who can translate complex concepts into clear, impactful messaging, build strong relationships across the organization and help ensure every communication reflects OCCU's brand, values and commitment to member experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, coach and develop communications team members while fostering a collaborative, high-performing culture.

• Partner with leadership and cross-functional teams to develop and execute communication strategies that support organizational initiatives and business objectives.

• Provide strategic guidance on messaging, communication planning, audience engagement and change management communications

• Oversee internal communication channels, employee engagement communications, communication planning and content development.

• Oversee member communications across channels, partnering with teams to translate business needs into clear, timely and member-focused messaging that supports trust, engagement and a consistent experience

• Lead public relations efforts, including media relations, storytelling, reputation management and community visibility.

• Support crisis communication planning and help ensure OCCU is prepared to communicate effectively during sensitive or high-impact situations.

• Measure communication effectiveness and continuously improve communication processes, channels and outcomes.

Key Areas of Impact:

• Communications Strategy & Organizational Messaging:?Partner with leaders across OCCU to develop and execute communication strategies that support organizational priorities, employee engagement, member education, change initiatives and business objectives. Ensure messaging is clear, consistent, timely, and aligned with OCCU's brand and culture.

• Public Relations & Community Visibility:?Lead proactive public relations efforts that strengthen OCCU's presence in the communities we serve. Build relationships with media outlets, community partners and external stakeholders while identifying opportunities to share OCCU's impact, expertise and commitment to financial well-being.

• Media Relations & Reputation Management:?Serve as a strategic advisor on media engagement, public messaging and reputation management. Support crisis communication planning, oversee external communications and help ensure OCCU's voice remains authentic, trusted and aligned with organizational values.

What We're Looking For:

• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, media relations, internal communications or a related field.

• Demonstrated success leading people, projects or cross-functional communication initiatives.

• Exceptional writing, editing, storytelling, presentation and verbal communication skills.

• Experience developing strategic communication plans, employee communications, media materials and stakeholder messaging.

• Strong ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.

• Proven ability to build relationships, influence stakeholders and communicate effectively with audiences at all levels of an organization.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of media relations, reputation management, crisis communications and stakeholder engagement practices.

• Experience using communication analytics, intranet platforms, project management tools or related communication technologies.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Business or a closely related field required and/or demonstrated experience driving measurable business outcomes. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Why Join OCCU:

OCCU offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth, including:

• Low-cost medical, dental and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match

• Paid time off plus 13 paid holidays

• Tuition reimbursement for eligible education and training

• Company-paid long-term disability

• 40 hours of company-paid core time annually for full-time employees to participate in community volunteer opportunities

OCCU is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. If you are a strategic communications leader who excels at building relationships, shaping impactful messaging and strengthening organizational reputation, we encourage you to apply.