Director of Communications

Oversee all communications related to Mayor’s office and City departments in a responsive, detail-oriented manner. This position provides the chance to lead the communication of policy goals for the largest city in the State of New Mexico. The Director is ultimately responsible for more than a twenty different departments’ communication, digital, earned and paid media efforts in addition to a core team including the Press Secretary, Mayor Office’s PIO, and other related staff.

The day-to-day role historically offers one of the most intense and fulfilling opportunities in public communications in the state.

Use advanced messaging and methods to advance key City priorities. Provide management and direction to all communications staff. Use judgment to manage projects and workflow of team. Responsible for timeliness and quality of all products submitted for final review. Implement strategic communications plans and ensure that incoming requests for information are responded to in a timely, accurate and authentic manner. Routinely report on recommendations for and the status of assignments.

Actively manage public information officers and lead regular communications meetings to develop long-term plans and address issues that arise. Gather, develop and coordinate items from departments and incorporate items into planning. Establish two-way relationships with each member of the team to develop and utilize skill sets. Maintain a communications calendar, long term plans and system to track public appearance from key leaders.

Coordinate communications with internal divisions such as Constituent Services, as well as partner agencies, City Council, Legislature and community members. Maintain relationships with the media, to include editorial boards, reporters, and recurring participation by key leaders on television and radio shows. Take action to have factual errors and unprofessional conduct addressed. Ensure media lists are continuously updated. Determine when items should be sent to specific audiences, including national media or local advocacy groups.

This is an unclassified at-will position.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Description s are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in communications, political science, public policy, public administration, or a related field preferred; and Eight (8) years of experience with increasing responsibilities in media communications and/or public relations preferred; and Supervisory experience preferred.

Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain by date of hire.

Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

• Principles and practices of mass communication including experience with print, radio, television, and social media platforms
• Principles of project management
• Municipal government operations
• Microsoft Office and social media platforms

• Exercise good judgement and attention to detail
• Work independently taking responsibility for self and workload
• Plan, manage and meet project deadlines
• Analyze and assess programs, policies and operational needs and make appropriate adjustments
• Identify and respond to sensitive community and organizational issues, concerns and needs
• Communicate clearly and assertively
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation