Director of Communications

SUMMARY

Accountable for implementation of Communications and Public Relations activities for the DRJTBC, with an emphasis on social media and overseeing public-information content on the Commission’s website. This management-level position shall report to the Deputy Executive Director of Communications, who is ultimately responsible for the professional management, policy-setting, and strategic development of community relations, media communications and public relations. Work is at a full professional-performance level and requires the application of independent judgment and technical proficiency in the completion of projects. The position requires coordination/communication with both the Commission’s website and media consultants, and interaction with nearly all areas of Commission operations. Work shall be performed with considerable independence, subject to the general supervision of the Deputy Executive Director of Communications, who reports to the Executive Director.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND ABILITIES:

Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Journalism, Communications, Business Administration, or Public Administration, or any equivalent combination of experience, education, and training. Master’s degree in Journalism or Public Affairs preferred. Seven years of progressive experience in public relations, marketing, communication, and/or journalism, including creating communication and marketing plans involving social media, and traditional open-source media outlets. Five years of managerial experience in communications and knowledge of governmental transportation communications is preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications is essential. Experience with design and publishing tools like InDesign, Photoshop and/or Canva is preferred.

ROLE and RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

The position is responsible for overall content management of the Commission’s external website – www.drjtbc.org – and the agency’s Facebook page. The Director of Communications also shall monitor social media platforms and evaluate any future opportunities for Commission communications via social media. In addition to the Executive Director, the Dep. Exec. Dir. of Communications and the Commission’s media consultant, the Director of Communications shall serve in the role of Commission spokesperson and shall strive to maintain a positive and professional public image for the Commission.

· Implements Commission’s communications and public relations functions and objectives.

· Provides accurate and timely advance notification of travel impacts arising from Commission projects, protracted non-routine maintenance activities, and major traffic incidents.

· Manages the Commission’s social media presence, ensuring content is accurate, accessible, and reflective of Commission objectives.

· Oversees the planning, design and management of a comprehensive web site that supports interactive communications with customers and presents timely, accurate information.

· Assists as needed with execution of community outreach efforts and public-involvement programs conducted in conjunction with major capital improvement projects.

· Responds to members of the media in a timely manner; composes and distributes press releases, travel advisories, and other external communications as needed.

· Works effectively with other Commission departments as needed and with outside contractors and consultants.

· Confirms accuracy, timing, and appropriateness of Communications with applicable Commission executives and departments.

· Implements goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the department; identifies resource needs.

· Maintains editorial standards for Commission communications, ensuring effectiveness, clarity, and a high standard of quality for publications and the public.

· Strives to enhance the image and reputation of the DRJTBC.

· Works with Dep. Exec. Dir. of Communications and Commission media consultant in drafting written content, gathering photographs and other graphic content for the Commission’s Annual Report.

· Synthesizes technical materials or complex operational matters for easy comprehension by the general public and/or employee workforce.

· Represents the DRJTBC in designated forums and meetings.

· Organizes various media-related events and ceremonies.

· Prepares newsletters and other publications as directed.

· Assists with drafting articles, obtaining images, and designing the Commission’s annual report.

· Identifies opportunities to promote Commission activities, projects, and initiatives through visual means – video, photography, and graphics.

· Assists with the Commission’s media response in emergency or crisis situations.

· Develops, prepares and reviews reports as warranted.

· Maintains an overall perspective and thinks analytically.

· Exercises discretion and independent judgment with a high degree of confidentiality.

· Communicates clearly and authoritatively, orally and in writing; can write in a journalistic style customary for governmental external communications.

· Experienced-based ability to offer media relations advice to senior management.

· Possesses knowledge of latest trends and methods in the communications/public relations arena.

· Maintains positive professional relationships with members of the media.

· Travel as required. (Adverse conditions possible.)

· Adheres to applicable budgets.

· Performs related duties as assigned.