Director of Communications

Director of Communications

Serve as the department's primary lead for strategic messaging, executive communications, and media relations to ensure clear, consistent, and effective communication that advances the district's vision, strengthens stakeholder trust, and supports organizational vision priorities and goals. Oversee communications systems, campaigns, and initiatives while guiding the development and execution of strategies to support departments and campuses throughout the district.

Minimum Education/Certification:

• Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Advertising, or related field preferred
• At least three years' experience in communications, public relations, or content marketing for a corporation or non-profit
• School public relations or K–12 communications experience preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills/Experience:

• Expertise in strategic communications, marketing, and digital engagement strategies across multiple platforms and audiences
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to oversee communication initiatives, manage competing priorities, and meet multiple deadlines simultaneously
• Proficiency in email marketing and newsletter platforms, social media applications, and communications technologies (e.g., Messages XR, Smore, or similar)
• Strong writing, editing, and public relations skills with the ability to communicate effectively across a variety of formats and audiences
• Experience developing and implementing marketing and communication campaigns, including strategic planning, audience engagement and performance evaluation
• Experience working with senior leadership and handling information of confidential or sensitive nature
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across departments and campuses
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities, assignments, deadlines, and organizational needs
• Knowledge of Associated Press Style and communications best practices
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to provide strategic counsel and communicate complex information clearly
• Ability to analyze complex situations, exercise sound judgment, and make effective decisions during crisis situations

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive district-wide communications strategy with both internal and external audiences that aligns with the district's vision, mission, priorities, and goals.
• Serve as Public Information Officer and provide leadership in public relations, media relations, and crisis communications efforts in collaboration with district leadership.
• Lead the planning, coordination and evaluation of internal and external communications initiatives to ensure consistent messaging across stakeholder groups and platforms.
• Analyze communication effectiveness and stakeholder engagement data to evaluate outcomes and adjust strategies as needed.
• Oversee the development and dissemination of written internal and external communications content.
• Provide direction, prioritization, and oversight of department projects, initiatives, and workflow to ensure cohesive communication.
• Collaborate with departments and campuses in developing content for District communication tools and strategic approaches.
• Provide guidance to campus and district leaders regarding communication best practices, messaging, and stakeholder engagement.
• Coordinate the development and distribution of content across communication channels.
• Apply strategic planning and analytical skills to guide marketing and communication efforts.
• Provide guidance for the district's marketing, digital engagement, and communications initiatives to ensure alignment with priorities and needs.
• Support the development and execution of marketing campaigns that support student enrollment, program awareness, recruitment efforts, and district initiatives.
• Oversee district communication channels and communication systems, including newsletters, websites, social media, and digital communication platforms.
• Collaborate with others to develop print and digital materials that promote district and support strategic communication goals.
• Work cooperatively with principals and other staff to develop initiatives and programs that strengthen community partnerships and support the district's mission and goals.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

• Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals; camera; video camera
• Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching
• Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)
• May work prolonged or irregular hours; frequent district wide and statewide travel
• Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress

Other: All employees are to follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required. This position is an in-person job and is to be performed at the location specified. It does not qualify for remote work or work from home status.