Communications Director

Under general administrative direction, this position establishes, manages, and implements effective communications and public involvement strategies to provide timely, accurate, and understandable information to the community. It is responsible for overseeing and coordinating citywide communications messages and public information programs;
Expands communication resources for outreach to the city and residents using existing and new technology and media. Oversees implementation of citywide information programs; must apply a significant degree of initiative and independent judgment; interfaces frequently with City management, City Council, the media, and other City staff to present recommendations and administer public information programs.

• The Director will develop and implement a comprehensive community relations plan that supports inclusive engagement, encourages participation in City programs and public processes, and strengthens the City’s reputation as an accessible, responsive, and community-focused organization.
• Develops strategies, work plans, program goals, objectives, policies, and budget proposals; consults with executive leadership for confirmation of current priorities.
• Provides oversight of all Communications functions for the City; establishes and maintains City-wide communications procedures.
• Provides training to and works with staff in all departments to ensure adherence to policies and practices.
• Researches, analyzes, recommends, and implements new processes and practices; recommends changes in structure, policies, procedures, and methods related to communications and public information/public relations. Propose strategies for implementing changes; oversees implementation of changes.
• Develops and evaluates budget requests, monitors budget expenditures, and makes adjustments as necessary; reports budget information; assists with communications requests for proposals from various vendors who assist with communications functions and engagements.
• Supervises communications division and oversee coordination of messages via communications channels, including the City website, social media accounts, video, and special events.
• Continuously evaluates the effectiveness of communications campaigns and coordinates ongoing city messaging with clear information to the public.
• Advises the Mayor, City Council and top management staff on communications strategies, policies, procedures, and issues.
• Coordinates implementation of the City’s communications plan and links communications initiatives to the City Council’s Strategic Plan and goals.
• Develops, facilitates, and assists with implementing strategic approaches to emerging issues.
• Oversees the coordination of design, production, and distribution of city publications to heighten awareness of city services, programs and initiatives ensuring all materials follow city branding and key messaging.
• Assists other departments with communications strategies. In an emergency, serves in Emergency Operations Center and provides emergency message support.
• Manages and coordinates cable access channel content, including public service announcement notices and promotional videos.
• Serves on county-wide communications teams to assist with Travis and Williamson County regional communications efforts.
• Attends, represents, and/or coordinates with the CM/ACM at community functions, open house, and community meetings, civic organizations, and governmental groups; prepares and presents presentations regarding city programs.
• Works with CM/ACMs, staff, and City Council on communication strategies such as coordinating plans, and writing columns, letters, and speeches, and communication programs.
• Attends conferences, training, and other meetings to stay current with successful practices in communications, engagement and learning new skills.
• Remains accessible via personal cell phone to address job-related issues or emergencies using City applications.
• Other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, or a related field.

• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in Communications.
• Five (5) years of…