Public Information Director

Job Description

Job Description

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out herein.

Department: City Administration

Pay Grade: A23

FLSA Status: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY

Incumbent develops, designs, writes and/or edits and graphically produces marketing and communications materials to assist in the public’s understanding of City policies, programs, activities, and services. This position shapes a positive image of the City of Page and assures the communications efforts of the City are comprehensively coordinated.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Develops, creates, and coordinates the distribution of accurate, timely and accessible public information to promote the City's key messages to internal and external customers; writes, edits and produces information packages to communicate municipal issues, and promote public awareness of City programs and services.
• Coordinates the design, development, production and distribution of public communications and promotional materials utilizing methods including but not limited to: press releases, public outreach strategies, media advisories, publications, direct mail campaigns, print and broadcast advertising, video production, content and design of City websites and social media sites.
• Drafts the writing and editing of text, graphic design and photography for all types of public information campaigns. Works with City departments to collect information and develop promotional plans for special events, programs and community services.
• Coordinates effective community meetings, media events and press conferences to promote City programs and services and encourage civic involvement; serves as an information resource to citizens, business establishments, news media, and community groups.
• Assures the City's messages are consistent, reliable, and reach the target audience.
• Researches and resolves inquiries and complaints and addresses social media inquiries and comments to ensure timely and accurate response.
• Conducts research projects, compiles information, and summarizes findings on assigned issues.
• Monitor and analyze the effectiveness of communication and marketing efforts. Track metrics such as engagement, reach, and feedback to inform future strategies and initiatives.
• Prepares comprehensive reports.
• Assists with planning, coordinating, and monitoring special programs or projects initiated by the City Manager.
• Assists in developing legislative, public affairs and communications strategies.
• Builds and maintains positive relationships by demonstrating superior customer services through courteous and cooperative behavior.
• Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity.
• May be required to work early mornings, evenings, holidays or weekends as needed.
• Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with city policies and procedures; follows safety policies and practices, works in a safe manner, and reports unsafe activity and conditions.
• Performs duties of a similar nature or level as required.
• May serve on various employee or other committees as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Political Science, or Business Management, or related field; and
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in public communications and public relations.
• Public sector experience preferred.

Licenses or Certifications:

• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid State of Arizona Driver’s license by date of hire, required.

Special Requirements:

• Must be able to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Must be able to attend up to two night-time meetings per month and take meeting minutes.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of communications, marketing, public information, public and media relations, and strategic communications planning.
• Knowledge of website and graphic design and the production of collateral materials, digital photography and videography.
• Knowledge of City organization, operations, policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws and City policies governing the dissemination of public information.
• Knowledge in professional journalistic methods, including research, publication and presentation materials.
• Knowledge of local community resources and regional community service programs.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques in the production of communication projects.
• Knowledge of legislative and political processes.
• Knowledge of correct English grammar, composition, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
• Skill in communicating information to the public regarding City operations, services, and programs.
• Skill in analyzing information from a variety of sources, and developing effective action plans.
• Skill in exceptionally written communications, to include drafting and editing and the ability to write to fit designated audiences.
• Skill in oral communications, resolving inquiries, concerns and complaints.
• Skill in creating consensus between diverse groups or individuals on contentious issues.
• Ability to maintain composure when working in high-pressure environments with changing priorities.
• Ability to discern nuances in a political environment.
• Ability to interpret federal, state, and city ordinances, rules and regulations and make rational decisions in accordance with established policy.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Ability to write speeches, press releases, and statements for elected officials.
• Ability to develop and maintain a workplace of accountability, responsibility, and mutual respect.
• Ability to maintain our “customer-focused-work-culture” and professional work environment.
• Ability to maintain open lines of communication and an open-door policy with staff and the public.

The duties listed above are intended only as general illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. Specific statements of duties not included does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Job descriptions are subject to change by the city as the needs of the city and the requirements of the job may change.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is performed in a standard office environment, with some work in the field at construction sites, which may require traversing uneven terrain, plants, rocks, and other obstacles, and climbing hills. While in the field, City employees may be exposed to various environmental and weather conditions, hazardous chemicals, and/or potentially dangerous tools, equipment, and machinery. May be required to perform a full range of motion with lifting/carrying supplies, materials, equipment, or items weighing up to 50 pounds.

Page has the right to revise this job description at any time. This job The description does not in any way represent a contract of employment.

E.O.E. Page does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services.