The non-profit sector can offer communicators enhanced opportunities for professional development, according to Katherine Moffat, Interim Director of Communications at Toronto’s Second Harvest, the largest food rescue program in Canada. In Katherine’s view, the sector offers significant learning opportunities since professionals are ofte
n called upon to stretch their skills and ‘get things done’ with fewer resources and within a more team-oriented culture.
Katherine has applied her professional training as a graphic designer and creative director for over 18 years in both for-profit and non-profit organizations. She is currently exploring the move from specialist to generalist and has found a one-year opportunity to evaluate this new direction.
“I was feeling restless, knowing that I’m capable of more than what I had been doing as a designer and creative director. I also wanted to test my leadership abilities,” said Katherine. “It’s a little daunting to go from specialist to generalist, but I’m fortunate to have colleagues and expert volunteers that are available to help and provide guidance. Also, over many years of working in a collaborative marketing team, I have gathered knowledge by observing and helping teammates.”
In her current role, Katherine is responsible for Second Harvest’s corporate and external communications functions, from creative collateral to public relations and is responsible for helping to lead a revision of the organization’s brand.
“Second Harvest has grown organically over the last 27 years, due to increasing levels of need in the city. Though we are very good at what we do and no one else is doing it, we need to more clearly define ourselves,” explained Katherine. “This project allows me to apply my experience working with for-profit and non-profit brands to facilitate the process of defining our brand. Using research as a foundation, we’ll develop a brand position, visual identity and messaging guidelines to take the organization to the next level.”
Katherine’s experience with non-profits extends far beyond her professional experience. Her volunteer contributions have included work with a number of arts and sports organizations including the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Arts, Hot Docs and the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games. Katherine is an artist in her own right, specializing in pottery and photography.
“My artwork has been a part of maintaining a balance in my life and continues to be important while I move through this new stage in my career,” said Katherine. “This is an opportunity to see where I can go next – what more I can offer. We all give a big chunk of our lives to our jobs, so it’s important to find a place where our contributions are appreciated and where there is a good fit.”
Connect with Katherine and other non-profit marketers and communicators in our LinkedIn group or find Katherine on LinkedIn.
Follow Second Harvest on Twitter or Facebook.
Willing to share your story as a non-profit marketer or communicator? Contact Marlene at contact@moflow.ca.
