Communications Director

Reporting directly to the Assistant City Manager, this role requires a seasoned communications leader with expertise in strategy, team management, and multi-channel messaging.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive communication strategies and campaigns to support City programs, services, and policy initiatives across all departments.
• Supervise a multi-disciplinary team responsible for public information, broadcasting, graphic design, social media, and digital media production.
• Oversee the creation, publication, and distribution of the City’s newsletters, promotional materials, and emergency alerts.
• Coordinate the City’s social media presence, including message development, audience engagement, and performance monitoring.
• Oversee the broadcast and recording of City Council meetings, public hearings, and special events on the government access channel.
• Collaborate with departments to maintain message consistency, branding alignment, and high standards for visual, written, and digital communication.
• Develop and manage the division’s annual budget, staffing, and equipment procurement, including maintenance of broadcast and production systems.
• Monitor community discussion platforms and coordinate appropriate outreach or response.
• Coordinate special publications and major speechwriting efforts, including the Mayor’s State of the City presentation.
• Stay informed on emerging communications technologies and industry trends to improve outreach and effectiveness.
• Serve as the primary media contact for the City, establishing and maintaining strong relationships with local media, managing inquiries, providing background information, developing talking points, and issuing press releases.
• Maintain knowledge of City projects and services to respond accurately to public and media inquiries or route them to the appropriate source.
• Serve as the City’s Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies, weather events, and sensitive situations, coordinating real-time communications and ensuring message clarity and consistency.
• Provide oversight and approval of all content for the City’s website, newsletters, and publications, ensuring materials are accurate, accessible, well-written, and aligned with City branding standards.
• Maintain outreach databases of local places of worship, community organizations, schools, and other partners.
• Perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs, Marketing, Public Relations, English, or a related field. A master’s degree is highly desirable.
• Seven years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or media, including at least three years in a supervisory or management role.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning capabilities.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and respond effectively during emergencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in video production, website content management systems, graphic design software, and Microsoft suite of products.
• Knowledge of the principles of communication and public relations, English usage, grammar, and composition.
• Knowledge of the characteristics and capabilities of printing methods, layout, typography, and composition.
• Knowledge of local government operations and organizations.
• Familiarity with public sector communications and open government principles, and the ability to choose appropriate means and techniques of disseminating information to desired audiences.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with the general public, coworkers, elected officials, and all other stakeholders.
• Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), FEMA PIO training, or certifications from professional associations such as 3CMA, PRSA, or ICMA are advantageous.

Pay

$115,000 – $135,000 depending on qualifications.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability programs.
• 401(k) with employer match and optional 457 retirement savings plan.
• Telework/hybrid and flexible scheduling options to optimize work/life balance.