Community Relations Manager

Community Relations Manager

Under general supervision of the City Manager, develops, organizes, directs, and evaluates a comprehensive media, community relations, communications, marketing, and outreach program. Provides administrative, technical, and customer service support to the Administration Department when necessary and performs other duties as assigned.

The duties listed below represent the primary responsibilities for this position. Employees may not be required to perform all duties and may be assigned additional duties as needed.

Develops, implements and maintains a comprehensive City-wide communication plan utilizing various means and outlets. Advises City management in the development and implementation of effective current and long-range communication policies, plan, and practices which enhance its relations with the public. Develops strategies and advise on appropriate information dissemination procedures regarding significant issues, programs, projects, and services.

Develops, implements, and maintains a City-wide social media strategy that incorporates the needs of individual departments. Provides advice and assistance on effective social media and public information methods, procedures, and outreach. Develops, implements, and updates as necessary, clear policies and guidelines related to the topics of social media and media relations in conjunction with City Administration.

Manages the City's website to ensure it provides accurate, up-to-date information to the public. Plans and presents training relating to communications, social media, and customer service.

Works in conjunction with the Marketing and Public Information Specialist to develop digital and physical materials for departmental or Citywide communication initiatives or campaigns, including but not limited to brochures, flyers, reports, fact sheets, presentations, videos, newsletters, public services announcements, public statements, and press releases.

Plans, coordinates, and collects data regarding public outreach effectiveness to develop effective communication strategies. Engages the community through the development of online surveys and polls, along with in-person outreach and discussions.

Serves as the City's spokesperson before public groups and acts as a liaison between the city and the public. Acts as City representative in communication and information-based activities by responding to media, citizen, and business inquiries. Develops and maintains regular contacts with radio, television, print, and digital media outlets. Works closely with the media and other strategic alliance partners to promote transparency, information sharing, and other needs Cottonwood and its departments and events, tactfully maintaining confidentiality when necessary. Maintains effective relationships with civic, corporate, and educational organizations.

Develops and execute crisis management plans to communicate with internal and external audiences during emergencies. Participates in the planning and training for emergency situations and is a member of the Emergency Operations Team.

Communicates and coordinates regularly with appropriate departments to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations and activities; ensures potential visitors and businesses have access to accurate information and efficient processes and procedures through its interdepartmental operations, activities and communications. Aligns departmental work to the vision, mission, and strategic objectives of the City as set by City Council.

This classification is in an office environment requiring mostly sedentary activities for the majority of the workday, however, some projects may require outdoor activities on uneven terrain. Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms., and lift up to 10 pounds. Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and lift and move up to 50 pounds. Must have hearing and speaking ability sufficient to clearly and concisely communicate in person and over the telephone. Must have sufficient close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus to perform the duties of the position. Must be capable of operating motor vehicles safely for required travel.

A Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, Public or business administration, or related field and two years' experience in the development and implementation of a communications program, extensive media interactions, or relevant work on policy analysis, government administration, law, or business operations, or other related field, or any combination of education and experience demonstrating the ability to successfully perform the duties of the position. Additional experience in customer service, community engagement, marketing, and developing and implementing communication strategies is desirable. Must possess or be able to possess upon hire a valid State of Arizona Driver's License.