Job Description:
Job Summary
Leads and oversees the County's communications strategy, ensuring consistent, transparent, and effective messaging to residents, stakeholders, and the media. Serves as a strategic advisor to leadership, manages high-profile and sensitive communications, and directs all communication channels including media relations, digital platforms, and community outreach. Plays a key role in crisis and emergency communications and may serve as the official spokesperson.
Examples of Duties
- Develops and executes a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with organizational priorities.
- Advises leadership and elected officials on messaging, public positioning, and stakeholder engagement.
- Oversees communications for high-profile or sensitive issues.
- Directs media relations, digital communications, social media, publications, and outreach efforts.
- Builds and maintains relationships with media, community leaders, and stakeholders.
- Ensures consistency in branding, messaging, and visual identity.
- Leads crisis and emergency communications planning and response.
- Prepares and oversees speeches, reports, briefings, and public communications materials.
- Monitors communication performance metrics and implements improvements.
- Supervises and develops communications staff.
- Represents the organization at public meetings, events, and media engagements.
- Manages departmental operations, staff assignments, and performance evaluations.
- Performs administrative and operational duties as required.
Typical Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Administration, or related field (Master's preferred)
- 7+ years of experience in communications, public affairs, or media relations
- 3+ years of leadership or supervisory experience
- Experience in government or public sector preferred
- Valid driver's license
Supplemental Information
- Strong knowledge of public communications, media relations, and strategic messaging
- Ability to manage crisis communications and high-visibility issues
- Experience advising leadership and handling sensitive communications
- Strong leadership, organizational, and team management skills
- Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills
- Ability to build stakeholder relationships and maintain public trust
- Knowledge of government operations, policies, and regulations
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
Essential Physical Skills
- Extended periods at a computer/workstation
- Sitting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
- Lifting and carrying up to 10 lbs
- Occasional movement and physical activity as required