Communications Director

Overview

Under limited supervision, the Communications Director leads the City’s Communications Department and directs a comprehensive strategy for accurate, timely, and transparent public information. This role provides strategic leadership in media relations, crisis communications, brand and policy development, and enterprise-level oversight of written, visual, and digital communications with citywide impact. The position establishes and enforces citywide communications standards, ensures consistency in official messaging, and serves as the City’s senior communications authority.

The Communications Director provides leadership and support for emergency and time-sensitive communications, and maintains functional oversight of departmental communications related to official announcements and media activities. Reports to the Mayor, City Administrator, and for day-to-day operations reports to the Executive Director of General Government/Administration.

• Develops and implements the City’s citywide communications strategy and establishes communications, media, brand, and editorial policies for official and citywide public information. Sets standards for accuracy, transparency, tone, accessibility, and consistency across all public-facing communications while ensuring consistent application of communications policies. Monitors public-sector communications trends and recommends improvements to enhance effectiveness and public trust.
• Supervises department employees which may involve such duties as establishing priorities, instructing, assigning and reviewing work, maintaining standards, acting on employee problems, selecting new employees, and appraising employee performance. Makes recommendations for promotions, discipline, terminations, and salary increases.
• Provides functional guidance to departmental communications staff for citywide communications, official announcements, and media-related activities while departments retain authority over program specific or operational communications.
• Manages media relations and oversees all City communication platforms. Serves as spokesperson as needed, or designates and prepares spokespersons, as appropriate. Reviews and oversees citywide and official departmental press releases and media outreach to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with City standards. Builds and maintains relationships with local and regional media outlets and key community stakeholders.
• Collaborates with the Mayor, City Council, City Administrator, Executive Directors, and Economic Development on messaging, alignment, and public announcements. Coordinates communications plans for major City initiatives, projects, and policy changes, and ensures citywide messaging alignment across departments.
• Coordinates communications during emergencies, crises, or high-risk situations. Advises executive leadership on communication risks and opportunities, oversees time-sensitive messaging, and ensures the timely dissemination of accurate information. Monitors public sentiment and media coverage and reports issues and recommendations to leadership.
• Manages the Communications Department budget, resources, and annual work plan. Oversees vendor relationships and contracts related to communications, media, and production services. Tracks communication performance metrics and operational effectiveness.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university and seven to ten (7-10) years of experience in a job related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Master’s Degree is preferred.

Valid Driver’s License.

Professional experience in public relations, journalism, strategic communications, public affairs, or a closely related field that includes responsibility for the preparation, review, and distribution of official public information, media materials, and public-facing communications is required.

One or more of the following certifications or professional designations are preferred:
Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), Certified Public Communicator (CPC), Advanced Public Information Officer (APIO), and Certification in crisis communications or related field.