Strategic Communications and Public Relations Support RFP
The Proposal must be submitted no later than Monday, January 22, 2024 in electronic
format to the following email address: Purchasing@czs.org
The Chicago Zoological Society (CZS) is soliciting proposals to provide and identify a
strategic communications and public relations partner capable of developing and
implementing comprehensive communication strategies to support Brookfield Zoo’s goals
and mission.
This document outlines the Society’s guidelines for your responses.
Scope of Work, Deliverables, Required Response Format
Scope of Work/Deliverables
The selected firm is expected to deliver the following key components:
Strategic Communications Planning:
• Conduct a thorough assessment of Brookfield Zoo’s current communications strategies and
identify areas for improvement.
• Develop a comprehensive annual communications plan aligned with the zoo’s mission,
values, and key objectives, with an emphasis on significant institutional projects,
milestones, and opportunities that advance the future master and strategic plan initiatives of
Brookfield Zoo.
• Work closely with project stakeholders to understand key messages, goals, and target
audiences. Craft clear and compelling messages that resonate with diverse stakeholders and
highlight impact.
Media Relations:
• Establish and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Develop and execute media campaigns to promote key events, exhibits, and initiatives.
• Monitor media coverage and provide timely reports to evaluate the effectiveness of media
outreach efforts.
Content Creation and Distribution:
• Develop compelling and shareable content, including press releases, articles, and
multimedia materials.
• Coordinate content distribution with in-house staff through various channels, including
traditional media, social media, and the zoo’s official website.
Thought Leadership
• Develop a comprehensive strategy to position key executives as thought leaders in the
zoological and conservation sectors.
• Identify key topics aligned with Brookfield Zoo’s mission, industry trends, and current
affairs for executive thought leadership.
• Craft compelling and informative articles, blog posts, and op-eds showcasing executive
perspectives on relevant industry topics.
• Collaborate with executives to create engaging content that reflects their expertise and the
zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
• Leverage media opportunities, interviews, and speaking engagements to amplify executive
voices and promote the zoo’s initiatives.
Crisis Communications Management:
• Provide real-time support and guidance during critical incidents as needed.
Performance Metrics and Reporting:
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of communication
strategies.
• Provide regular reports on the impact of public relations efforts, including media
impressions, audience engagement, and other relevant metrics.
