Communications Director

POSITION PURPOSE:

The Communications Director holds a position within the City Administration, reporting directly to the City Administrator and Mayor. The position serves as the City’s Chief Spokesperson and Public Information Officer (PIO). The position directs dissemination of comprehensive public information and messaging on a wide variety of issues.

The Communications Director directs day to day messaging and communications, leads emergency crisis communications, and ensures brand standards. The position also supports the City Administrator and Mayor with Common Council relations and incoming requests. The position is responsible for developing and implementing an equity driven city-wide communications strategy that leverages the press, social media, community involvement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Develop and implement high-impact communications strategies that ensure accuracy, clarity, and accessibility of information related to the Mayor’s Administration, City of Racine operations, programs, services, concerns, issues, and interests.
• Elevate media relations efforts to encompass proactive and reactive approaches, fostering positive and constructive relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Spearhead media relations events and press conferences, collaborating closely with departments and divisions to showcase initiatives, services, and advancements effectively.
• Establish and maintain a robust network of local, regional, and national media contacts, proactively leveraging these connections to maximize positive media coverage for the city.
• Develop key messages and communication strategies during high-profile and sensitive issues especially related to natural disasters and public safety emergencies.
• Other duties and responsibilities as defined and directed by the Mayor and Common Council.

ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS OF THE POSITION:

Work has no exposure to environmental conditions; work is generally in a moderately noisy location (e.g. business office, light traffic).

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• Demonstrated expertise with a minimum of five years of progressive experience in Communications/media relations, legislative or policy research, or public realtions.
• Valid Driver’s license at time of hire and throughout employment and availability of a properly insured vehicle for use on the job.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Present sensitive and/or complex issues, both orally and in writing, to large diverse groups in a relatable and easy-to-understand fashion
• Write clear, concise, effective, professional, and grammatically and factually accurate content
• Make sound decisions and communicate effectively with the members of the press and public with little advance notice
• Work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences while exhibiting patience, empathy, and professionalism
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships, work in an open and approachable manner with elected and appointed officials, media, members of the public, and city staff at all levels
• Manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, often under tight deadlines and in a changing, complex environment; demonstrate strong organizational and management skills
• Research, analyze, and present background information on a wide variety of assigned projects, programs, and topics, relative to issues pending before the city council
• Achieve desired results in the midst of changing deadlines, project requirements, or project needs Maintain strict confidentiality
• Display an attitude of cooperation and work harmoniously with all levels of city employees, the general public, and other organizations
• Communicate effectively in the English language at a level necessary for efficient job performance
• Complete assignments in a timely fashion

All full-time, non-union employees are offered a robust benefits package, including:

• medical, dental, and vision benefits
• participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System
• life insurance
• a student loan repayment program
• short-term disability insurance and paid leave benefits. 

Employees of the City of Racine may also qualify for Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) through the Federal Government.