Communications Program Manager

About the role

Under general direction from the Director of Compliance & Communications, the Communications Program Manager is responsible for developing and leading Del-Co Water's comprehensive communications strategy. The incumbent will serve as Del-Co's primary communications strategist, overseeing brand management, media relations, crisis communications, community engagement, and member education initiatives. The ideal candidate is an experienced communications professional with strong strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills.

Reports to: Director of Compliance & Communications | Classification: Salary (Exempt); Full-Time | Department: Communications | Location: Delaware, OH; Olentangy Campus

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously refine Del-Co Water's comprehensive communications strategy, including a proactive communications calendar across all channels and audiences.
• Establish and enforce Del-Co's brand, visual identity standards, and messaging framework.
• Evaluate communications program effectiveness through measurable metrics and member feedback; recommend and implement improvements.
• Manage relationships with external communications vendors and partners.
• Write, edit, and produce content across Del-Co's communications channels, including social media, digital newsletters, bill inserts, website, and internal communications.
• Develop compelling member stories, employee spotlights, and community narratives.
• Translate complex technical topics into clear language for a general audience.
• Develop and deliver presentations for leadership, board meetings, public forums, and events.
• Own digital communications strategy, including social media, email marketing and website content.
• Lead growth of EyeOnWater member enrollment through integrated digital campaigns and member education initiatives.
• Serve as primary media contact; build and maintain relationships with local and regional media.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and statements; manage media inquiries.
• Develop and maintain Del-Co's crisis communications plan.
• Support Del-Co's community engagement strategy, including planning and coordinating public meetings, member education events, school programs and special events.
• Represent Del-Co Water at community events, conferences, and public forums.
• Build and maintain relationships with municipal partners, community organizations, and regional stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain Del-Co Water's brand standards and messaging guidelines, ensuring consistency across all communications.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, English, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications strategies across multiple channels and audiences.
• Proven media relations experience, including drafting press releases and managing relationships with the media.
• Experience in crisis communications planning and execution.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, design tools, and digital marketing platforms.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate communications needs and align initiatives with organizational goals.
• Creative approach to communications, with the ability to develop content for diverse audiences.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and take ownership of projects.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred: Experience in water utilities, municipal government, or environmental nonprofits. Experience with photography, video production, or multimedia content creation.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Pension, 401(k), and Roth plans
• Paid time off
• Educational reimbursement opportunities

Pay

Job Grade 11: $75,290–$110,679 (Target hiring range: $75,290 – $92,984)

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Occasional evening and weekend hours required for events, public meetings, and outreach activities.