Public Safety Strategic Communications Manager

Are you a skilled communicator who thrives in fast-paced environments and understands the critical role communication plays in public trust and community confidence? The City of Southlake is seeking an experienced and innovative Public Safety Strategic Communications Manager to lead communications efforts for our nationally recognized Police and Fire Departments. The City of Southlake is a place where we come together to enrich the quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. We strive to exceed expectations by delivering memorable experiences, world‑class services, and a thoughtfully planned, well‑maintained City. The Southlake Way inspires us to respectfully deliver excellent services, creating positive and lasting impressions. Learn more about our values here. Public Safety Strategic Communications Manager The Public Safety Strategic Communications Manager will lead strategic communications efforts for the Southlake Police and Fire Departments, strengthening public trust through consistent, transparent, timely, and effective communication with the community, media, and other stakeholders. The position serves as the primary communications professional and Public Information Officer for Public Safety, responsible for developing and executing communication strategies, managing media relations, supporting crisis communications, and advancing community engagement initiatives. The position works collaboratively with the Office of Communications and Customer Experience as part of the City's broader communications team to align public safety communications with citywide priorities, communication strategies, brand standards, and customer experience objectives. Structurally housed in the Police Department and reporting to the Chief of Police, with active collaboration and dotted‑line responsibility to the Fire Chief, this position serves as the single point of accountability for public‑facing communications during both routine operations and critical incidents. Benefits of Working in Southlake Competitive pay and exceptional medical, dental, and vision benefits Early pay access available through UKG Wallet Retirement program (TMRS) with City matching 2:1 Vacation (3 weeks after 1 year), Sick, and Holiday pay City paid LTD, AD&D, and Life insurance Longevity Pay Tuition Reimbursement Complimentary membership to Champions Club at The Marq Southlake Ongoing training City provided certifications Employee Assistance Program What You Bring To Us Education: Knowledge is normally acquired through four (4) years of college, resulting in a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or a closely related field. Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in public relations, strategic communications, media relations, or journalism. Certificates & Other Requirements Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Texas Driver’s License. Proficient in multiple computer software applications, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and other related software. Must be able to report to work in person; this is not a remote position. Must be available to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and after hours, as necessary, to support the Police and Fire Department public relations activities and communication requirements. Must be available to attend City Council meetings, board meetings, special events, and other planned or unplanned events after regular business hours, as needed or required. Applications will be accepted until July 7, 2026. Job Details Base Pay $78,261.47 - $86,200.00 / Year Job Category: Law Enforcement Employee Type: Full-Time Exempt Required Degree: 4 Year Degree Manage Others: No #J-18808-Ljbffr DeKalb Health