Summary
Description
SUMMARY Serves as the districts lead communications strategist, responsible for shaping and delivering clear, consistent, and compelling messaging that advances district goals and strengthens community trust. Directs all aspects of Communications Services, including media and public relations, crisis communications, and digital engagement, and acts as an authorized district spokesperson. Advises senior leadership and ensures coordinated communications across a large, complex organization. Regularly engages in highly sensitive and complex matters, including issues with legal, safety, and law enforcement implications, and requires sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to communicate clearly during critical moments.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Develop and lead the districts communications strategy aligned with the Jeffco strategic plan, ensuring a clear and consistent voice that communicates district priorities, progress, and impact.
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Execute the communications strategy by leading planning, managing staff and resources, directing writing and editing, and overseeing the districts Public Information Officer. Coordinate with the Superintendent, Chief of Staff, and subject matter experts to respond to media inquiries.
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Serve as a lead writer and communications advisor to the Superintendent, developing speeches, presentations, board communications, and other high-impact messaging.
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Direct crisis communications within the districts incident command structure by coordinating public messaging and supporting the Districts Public Information Officer in managing media inquiries and aligning communications with emergency services and law enforcement spokespeople.
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Collaborate with the leadership team to develop communications for key district initiatives and manage the team to produce and disseminate content.
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Build relationships with school leaders to understand and support school communication needs.
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Collaborate with administrative and department leaders to maximize Communications Services support.
- Prepare communications for district and school leaders, providing guidance on crisis communications, news releases, and sensitive or urgent matters.
- Assess and manage communications tools and resources supporting district, school, and department communications.
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Oversee vendors supporting communications priorities and initiatives.
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Lead strategic direction for public relations, media relations, marketing, social media, videography, publications, websites, and other platforms.
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Hire, manage, support, train, and coach communications staff while sharing best practices and monitoring emerging communications trends.
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Represent the Communications Services team in staff and community settings.
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Establish and oversee systems to collect and publish stories highlighting district programs, partnerships, schools, and student and staff achievements.
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Oversee implementation of brand guidelines across district publications, websites, and other materials
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Participate in professional development to ensure best practices.
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Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
EXPERIENCE 3 years of senior manager/director or above experience in communications, with an emphasis in the development and coordination of public information, media relations, journalism, community outreach, community engagement, or public relations.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING Bachelors Degree in communications, public administration, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related fields.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, OR REGISTRATIONS Valid drivers license required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Must have the ability to develop strategic messages and deliver them effectively to a wide variety of audiences, including representing Jeffco Public Schools, the Superintendent, and the leadership team in public forums and community settings. Must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of district achievements and current issues affecting Colorados public education system. Must have the ability to work in a self-directed manner within a fast-paced, deadline-driven, and complex environment. Must have the skills to lead multiple projects and analyze information to solve problems. Must have exceptional oral, writing, proofreading, and editing skills. This position requires proficiency with current technology to perform assigned duties.
SPAN OF CONTROL Provides executive leadership, direction, and supervision for the districts Communications Services team. Oversees all communications functions, budget and resources, and vendor partnerships, with broad authority to establish strategy, prioritize work, and allocate resources. Serves as an authorized spokesperson for the district and directs media relations, operating with a high degree of autonomy while partnering closely with the Chief of Staff, Superintendent and district cabinet team
The physical requirements, mental requirements and work environment factors described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Ability to focus on objects at varying distances and distinguish between colors (with corrective lenses). Perform tasks that require manual dexterity, including operation of computers & small office equipment. Basic mobility and the ability to navigate the office environment safely. Ability to speak clearly, listen attentively (with assistance devices), and convey information accurately. May be required to give presentations to groups.
MENTAL REQUIREMENTS Ability to analyze complex situations, identify potential risks, and devise effective solutions. Ability to remain flexible in dynamic environments, adjusting plans and strategies as necessary to accommodate changing requirements or circumstances. Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with other teams. Ability to manage time and priorities to meet deadlines.
WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed in a semi-secured office building with a typical environment and risk factors.
