Senior Digital Strategy Manager

It is inspiring to work in an organization where individuals are deeply committed to the mission and values that drive our success.

We are dedicated to delivering expert pension service to Illinois public educators as they earn their promised retirement security.

Job Summary:

The Senior Digital Strategy Manager will lead the development and execution of digital strategies that enhance the visibility, reach, and effectiveness of TRS’s communications across digital platforms. This role plays a critical part in shaping the organization’s voice online—supporting employee communication, member education, and public awareness through engaging, data-informed digital content. The ideal candidate will bring creativity, strategic thinking, and technical expertise to help align TRS’s digital presence with its mission, vision, and values. This position will work closely with the Chief Communications and Engagement Officer and the Managing Editor, along with cross-functional teams to manage digital channels, campaigns, and content that support organizational goals and stakeholder engagement.

Essential Functions:

• Leads the creation, implementation, and evaluation of digital communication strategies to support TRS’s mission and initiatives.
• Oversees day-to-day management and collaborates on content with CCEO and Managing Editor of TRS’s digital communication platforms, including the public website, intranet, email systems, and social media accounts.
• Provides leadership over the production of high-quality digital content across formats—web copy, email campaigns, infographics, videos, and social media posts in conjunction with the communications team.
• Apply SEO and accessibility best practices to ensure content is discoverable, usable, and inclusive for all audiences.
• Partners with internal stakeholders to translate organizational goals into digital communication plans that support awareness, engagement, and action.
• Manages digital communication calendars and coordinates messaging across channels to ensure consistency, timeliness, and brand alignment.
• Uses analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, email metrics, social insights) to track performance, generate reports, and inform data-driven improvements.
• Advises leadership on emerging digital trends, tools, and technologies to enhance communication and engagement.
• Maintains and improves content management systems (e.g., SharePoint, WordPress), ensuring up-to-date content, intuitive navigation, and strong user experience.
• Participates in Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes, including evaluating vendor submissions and providing recommendations to support informed vendor selection decisions.
• Collaborates with IT, vendors and contractors to troubleshoot digital issues and support enhancements as needed.
• Provides leadership over the development of digital multimedia assets (e.g., basic graphic design, short videos) for online use; design or editing experience is a plus.
• Ensures all digital communications meet accessibility standards (ADA compliance) and align with TRS brand and style guidelines.
• Supports crisis communication efforts and urgent messaging needs through appropriate digital channels.
• Utilizes project management tools to track progress, prioritize tasks, and coordinate with internal teams and partners.
• Participates in professional development and stays current on digital communication innovations and industry best practices.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Expertise in managing websites, email platforms, and social media tools.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a digital-first mindset.
• The ideal candidate is both a strategist and a creator—skilled in translating complex ideas into clear, compelling digital content.
• Working knowledge of SEO, accessibility (WCAG), and user experience best practices.
• Familiarity with analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, native platform insights) and ability to interpret and present performance data.
• Have a deep understanding of best practices in web, email, and social media communications, with the ability to adjust tone and format for different audiences and channels.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver under tight deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
• Comfortable working across departments, they are highly collaborative, results-driven, and committed to delivering accessible, engaging experiences.
• High attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to producing polished, audience-centered content.
• Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential or sensitive information.
• Flexibility and initiative in a fast-paced and evolving communications environment.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Digital Media, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field required.
• Minimum of seven years of experience in digital communications or digital content strategy, preferably with some experience in a public sector, nonprofit, or complex organization.
• Proficiency with digital tools such as content management systems (e.g., WordPress, SharePoint), email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Poppulo), and social media scheduling tools.
• Experience with basic graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) and video production software is preferred.

Please note: That the salary range listed for this position is based on the Springfield, IL market. Final compensation will be adjusted to reflect cost-of-living differences for other TRS locations.

If you thrive in a dynamic environment and enjoy collaborating with driven, enthusiastic professionals, you will find a rewarding career with us.

For Illinois job seekers:

Pay Range

$92,295.10 - $143,980.00

Compensation will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of each candidate.

Benefits
TRS is an agency of the State of Illinois. As such, full and part-time employees are eligible for the State of Illinois comprehensive benefits program which includes medical, dental and vision coverage. All employees participate in the TRS retirement pension plan and have the option to contribute to additional State of Illinois deferred compensation plans. The TRS pension plan is a reciprocal system to other state and local pension plans (SERS, SURS, IMRF, etc.)

Public sector pension system.