Communications Manager

Definition & Duties Under general supervision of the Board Office Executive Director, develops and coordinates the execution of a cohesive communication strategy for the County.
Works with County departments and offices to create effective and coordinated messages that promote awareness of County services, projects, policies, and events.
Serves as the lead Public Information Officer for the County.
Performs project and special event planning, and related work as required.
Maintains effective leadership in managing Communications staff and workflow.
Knowledge of & Ability to Public and media relations Digital and social media Graphic design Speech writing and storytelling techniques Writing, editing, and proofreading skills Principles and practices of public administration and the structure and functions of governments Basic principles of supervision including approaches to discipline and training techniques Open meetings and open records laws and fulfillment processes English language to include grammar, spelling, sentence structure, vocabulary, and punctuation Public speaking Ability to: Represent Johnson County and perform duties in a professional, responsible, and trustworthy manner Interpret, apply, and articulate departmental policies and procedures Recruit, hire, train, manage, evaluate, discipline, and motivate staff in accordance with County employment policies Maintain confidentiality and security of information as appropriate Interpret, apply and articulate laws, policies, rules and regulations Serve as a media contact for the Board Office Collect data, maintain organized records, make informed recommendations Provide customer service that is courteous and responsive Establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, other county employees, members of the public, and media representatives Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through continuous development, modeling inclusive behaviors, and proactively managing bias Use a computer for the purposes of data entry, spreadsheets, word processing, presentations, video editing, email, and internet browsing and research Operate common office equipment such as calculators, fax, postage machines, photocopiers, scanners, and multi-line telephones Operate digital cameras, video cameras, microphones, PA systems, video tape recording equipment, and other related equipment including ADA accommodations Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, to individuals and groups in formal and non-formal situations Organize and prioritize multiple responsibilities Handle moderate to high levels of stress, meet deadlines, and solve problems appropriate to the position Respond to crises and challenging situations quickly and utilizing good judgment Work independently on projects and routine tasks Understand and follow complex oral and written instructions Organize and present facts, ideas, and opinions clearly and concisely in oral and written form Have clarity of speech and hearing which permits effective communication Have sufficient vision which permits moderate production and review of a wide variety of materials in both electronic and hardcopy forms Interpret, apply and articulate laws, policies, rules, and regulations Have sufficient personal mobility to complete field work at various county locations Have sufficient manual dexterity to make handwritten notations and which permits moderate use of a keyboard and a mouse Lift, push, pull, carry, and/or move up to 35 pounds Stand, sit, squat, kneel, bend, stoop, twist, and reach Have sufficient personal mobility to complete work at various facilities Work flexible schedule and occasional evenings and weekends as needed Minimum Education, Training & Experience & Special Requirements Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or related field AND at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications involving writing, media relations, and public relations responsibilities with one (1) year in a supervisory capacity; OR any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Master’s degree is preferred.
Special requirements: Must pass background check.
Valid driver’s license and insurable under County liability coverage.
May also require use of personal vehicle, or equivalent transportation, for official business.
Complete the Emergency Management Institute (EMI) Public Information Officer training course E/L0388 Advanced Public Information Officer and the pre-requisite courses within first year of employment.
Specific Duties to be performed satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation.
The following duties are normal for this position.
These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.
Other related duties may be required and assigned.
Collaborate with the Board and Executive Director to develop and implement the public voice and communications strategy of the County.
Develop and coordinate the County-wide communication strategy.
Manage project timelines and facilitate Board discussion/approval for communications projects.
Serve as a County liaison to partner organizations for communications related issues and projects.
Establish metrics to help determine effectiveness of communication efforts.
Develop public messaging and appropriate communications channels in cooperation with other County departments and offices.
Monitor the effectiveness of communications strategies and coordinate adjustments as needed.
Manage Communications staff to include recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, assigning work, training, evaluating, and disciplining personnel.
Consult with Director as appropriate.
Coordinate Johnson County communication and outreach efforts.
Create, maintain, and update brand manuals, style guides, and communications templates.
Develop guidelines and resources on effective communications for County departments/offices.
Coordinate creation of communication pieces such as website content, advertisements, and other public relations materials.
Ensure consistent and positive messaging and maintain quality control for all County communications.
Coordinate writing and designing of County correspondence, including letters, memos, reports, proclamations, resolutions of appreciation, brochures, flyers, and banners.
Serve as lead Public Information Officer.
Respond to and coordinate the collection of information for public records requests received by the Board Office or related to multiple departments.
Coordinate media and other communications for County staff.
Coordinate, write, edit, and distribute the internal and external County newsletters.
Prepare news releases and media advisories including research of information needed for the preparation of the releases.
Assist other offices and departments by editing and distributing news releases.
Manage County social media presence across multiple platforms.
Develop and maintain media relations, arrange press conferences, and serve as a contact for general media inquiries.
Develop communications processes, policies, and procedures.
Manage the County’s volunteer boards and commissions.
Develop and maintain board and commission manual.
Coordinate special County events and receptions originating from the Board Office.
Conduct communications related research and participate in education and training opportunities to maintain up-to-date knowledge about changes in the modes, methods, frameworks, and challenges related to communications.
Develop editorial and graphic standards for public information.
Assess internal communication needs and facilitate an environment that encourages interdepartmental and interoffice cooperation and collaboration.
Take, edit, and archive digital photographs and videos.
Coordinate the creation of customized graphics for print, video, and web.
Coordinate assistance to departments and offices with communications needs to promote County initiatives, including media relations and communications planning.
Prepare and present recommendations and regular updates to the Board of Supervisors and other elected officials.
Provide communication support for special projects and events.
Work closely with departments and offices to develop communications and community engagement efforts.
Provide back-up for the other Board Office staff.
Coordinate and attend assigned meetings, provide staff support, and take minutes as needed.
Assist with reception duties for the Board Office, answering and/or directing telephone calls, relaying information to appropriate personnel, and responding to questions from callers and visitors seeking help or general information.
Perform general clerical duties such as filing, faxing, typing, and photocopying.
Participate in assigned internal and external committees.
Attend work-related meetings, conferences, and seminars.
Perform work duties and activities in accordance with County policies, procedures, and safety practices.
Attend work regularly.
Resume and cover letter must be attached to online application.