Summary
Description
Responsible for the management of proactive communications, public and community relations, and event planning for the department of office. Develops, plans, and initiates all aspects of communications. Responsible for the development, writing, and layout of websites, social media, public communication pieces, public mailings, internal communication, and news releases. Researches and responds to Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) requests. Utilizes independent judgment and analytical skills in compiling and reporting communication data analytics.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
- Develops, manages, and implements strategic outreach activities and materials to communicate the organization's message. Ensures the development and implementation of integrated positioning strategies effectively convey accurate messaging to stakeholders.
- Works with senior leadership to create short and long-term strategic goals for the organization, including implementation of change management contingency plans and emergency preparedness.
- Leads and manages the communication process and serves as the primary public relations point of contact between the public and media.
- Provides expertise for the development, strategic planning, and implementation of communications, including writing, designing, and overseeing the production of printed materials, disseminating media relations press kits, providing story details, being proactive at public meetings, planning news conferences, and/or attending and assisting with planning and reporting special events.
- Writes and distributes news releases, including writing articles for editorial publications and writing the pre-prep on news releases from the agenda in coordination with the Communications Department.
- Coordinates media interviews while supplying and preparing leadership and staff experts with speaking points and information on subject matter; may assist in speech writing for events and public speaking engagements.
- Manages and oversees assigned staff; provides mentorship, guidance, and training to staff. Conducts performance evaluations and motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance; participates in the hiring and disciplinary process.
- Tracks, monitors, and analyzes new stories, legislation, and potential legislation that may affect the organization.
- Manages the development of video productions and podcasts.
- Develops, coordinates, and maintains the website and social media platforms. Monitors and analyzes appropriate social data, metrics, and website traffic to determine best practices and impacts on the community; develops and executes outreach strategy based on forecasts.
- Develops and initiates innovative methods to educate the public and decision-makers on relevant issues. Researches and implements new and emerging technologies for the development and delivery of multimedia presentations, websites, outreach, public service announcements and press releases, stakeholder newsletters, workshops, and informational sessions.
- Prepares information and communications in response to requests under Colorado's open records laws (CORA). Ensures timely and accurate responses to all requests.
- Plans and monitors budget for outreach program activities.
- Performs other duties as required.
Supervision Exercised: This classification requires supervising and monitoring performance for a regular group of employees or unit(s), including providing input on hiring/disciplinary action and work objectives/ effectiveness, performance evaluations, and realigning work as needed. A first-line or second-line supervisor typically performs these tasks.
Supervision Received: Receives administrative supervision. This classification typically performs job duties and resolves conflict according to their own judgment and initiatives, requesting supervisory assistance only when necessary. Special projects are managed with little oversight, and assignments may be reviewed upon completion. Performance reviewed periodically.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Working knowledge of local, state, government, and legislative processes.
- Working knowledge of computer systems and desktop publishing software to include electronic media. Proficiency with Adobe design products including Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, Fireworks, and Illustrator.
- Must possess exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills.
- Must possess strong analytical skills to interpret and evaluate data and reports.
- Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, and organize. Ability to assess situations and make prudent and appropriate decisions.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions; ability to prioritize tasks and to move between projects on short notice.
- Ability to apply conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to monitor communication tools, make quick decisions and use sound judgment when interacting with others.
- Ability to communicate, motivate, and organize projects among a broad spectrum of personnel, frequently under deadline pressure.
- Ability to use standard photography and equipment.
- Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, clients, vendors, other agencies, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
- Ability to develop and manage budgets.
- Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
Required Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in communications, public administration, business administration, or related field.
- Four years of related professional experience may substitute for the required degree.
- Three years of experience in public relations, journalism, public communications, or related field.
- One year of supervisory or leadership experience.
Preferred Education and Experience:
- Department of Human Services experience.
- Media relations and spokesperson experience.
Licenses/Certificates
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Pre-Employment Requirements
- Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.
Work Conditions
Duties are performed primarily in an office environment; some travel will be required. The position requires the flexibility of being available seven days a week; will be required to work evenings and weekends as business needs dictate.
The classification specification above is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities and minimum qualifications; specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and environmental conditions will vary depending on the needs of the department/office and the particular assignment. Changes to this document may only be made by a member of the Human Resources Department.
VISION
El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery.
PURPOSE
We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.
El Paso County is an E-Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.
El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre-employment drug screen.
