EVP and Chief Communications Officer

About the Role

The Executive Vice President & Chief Communications Officer (EVP/CCO) is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, responsible for shaping, advancing, and protecting the agency’s brand identity, reputation, and organizational culture. This role provides executive oversight of Marketing, Business Development, Strategic Messaging, Public and External Relations, and Internal Communications, ensuring the agency’s mission and achievements are clearly communicated to all stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the principal communications advisor to the CEO, Executive Team, and Board of Directors.
• Develops and executes a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with agency priorities and long-term objectives.
• Leads and mentors a multidisciplinary team responsible for marketing, communications, public relations, business development, and customer engagement.
• Establishes performance metrics to evaluate communications effectiveness and brand impact.
• Oversees the agency’s brand strategy, ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across all platforms.
• Directs marketing initiatives to promote ridership, enhance customer experience, and support revenue-generating programs.
• Identifies and advances business development opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Guides market research and competitive analysis to inform strategic decision-making.
• Serves as a senior spokesperson for the agency, representing it with media, community leaders, and elected officials.
• Develops proactive media strategies to elevate agency accomplishments and manage reputational risks.
• Oversees crisis communications planning and response.
• Builds and maintains relationships with external stakeholders and regional partners.
• Leads internal communications strategies to strengthen employee engagement and organizational culture.
• Ensures employees receive clear and timely information on agency initiatives and operational changes.
• Partners with Human Resources and Operations on change management and workforce development.
• Leads leadership development, succession planning, and innovation initiatives.
• Creates communication channels to amplify employee voices and foster inclusion.
• Crafts high-impact messaging, speeches, and executive communications for senior leadership.
• Oversees digital content, social media strategy, and multimedia storytelling.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field (Master’s degree desirable).
• Ten (10) years of experience leading internal and external communications teams, including public relations, marketing, and customer-focused functions.
• Comprehensive knowledge of strategic communications, brand management, crisis communications, and media relations.
• Understanding of public-sector operations, transportation systems, and community engagement.
• Working knowledge of business development, market analysis, and customer experience practices.
• Exceptional executive-level communication skills, including writing, public speaking, and strategic messaging.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing teams and complex initiatives.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Working knowledge of digital communications platforms and social media practices.
• Executive presence and professionalism in high-visibility situations.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to foster a positive organizational culture and strengthen employee engagement.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in an office environment with minimal exposure to dust, noise, or temperature extremes. During visits to operating facilities, moderate exposure to dust, noise, temperature extremes, weather, petroleum products, and chemicals may occur. The employee must follow safety policies and use protective equipment as required.