Communications Manager (Human, Homeless & Family Services Department)

Communications Manager

Under general direction of the Human, Homeless, and Family Services Director or designee, the Communications Manager is responsible for the coordination of key media, communication, and marketing functions for the newly created Department of Human, Homeless, and Family Services. This role is also responsible for developing and implementing communications strategies targeted to Detroit constituencies while consistently reinforcing the City of Detroit messaging. The Communications Manager serves as a trusted strategic advisor to the Department Director and senior leadership — contributing communications perspective in the early stages of program planning, policy development, and initiative design. Owning end-to-end execution of creative, high-impact communications products that translate complex departmental priorities into compelling stories, campaigns, and materials that resonate with Detroit residents and stakeholders.

•Coordinate with Department Director and senior staff on all media requests including but not limited to press releases, media advisories, press conferences, targeted story placement, interviews, and media inquiries, etc., shaping the City's message and completing requests in a timely manner.

•Coordinate with other communications personnel across City departments to respond and deliver a consistent message to media inquiries.

•Develop and maintain crisis communication protocols including rapid response frameworks across departments to ensure complex operational responses are clearly communicated to the public and stakeholders.

•Develop communications and marketing plans to support program goals and identify appropriate vehicles for reaching target audiences.

•Write, edit, and produce content for the organization's print publications, brochures, fact sheets, email marketing, and websites.

•Develop an outreach campaign to educate and convey targeted messages to the public.

•Promote the department's programs and initiatives among City stakeholders locally and regionally.

•Research, evaluate, and implement best practices for delivering messages to Detroit residents.

•Ensure communications from the department are written and disseminated with the intended audience in mind.

•Create and oversee communication efforts on social media outlets such as Facebook, X, Bluesky, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.

•Convey complex information concerning communications and marketing programs and initiatives in accessible, plain-language formats for diverse audiences.

•Determine best methods to deliver communications of an extremely sensitive nature.

•Other duties and responsibilities as needed.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field of study.
• Minimum five (5) years' progressively responsible experience in communications, public affairs or related field, that includes managing clients, projects or people.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications strategies for a government agency, nonprofit, or complex organization serving diverse populations.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple formats and platforms.
• Experience managing crisis communications or rapid-response media situations.
• Proficiency with content management systems, email marketing tools, and social media management platforms.
• Ability to work effectively across departments, with elected officials, community partners, and media.

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Evaluation Plan

• Interview: 70%
• Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
• Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%

Additional points may be awarded for:

• Veteran Points: 0-15 points
• Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Familiarity with issues related to public health, homelessness, housing instability, or human services strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of marketing principles and practices including social media.
• Knowledge of best practices and techniques of public information, public relations, advertising, and marketing.
• Skill in project management.
• Skill in communicating both orally and in writing to convey public and sensitive information clearly and effectively.
• Skill in developing public information and marketing plans.
• Skill in the use of proper grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and punctuation in written communications.
• Ability to design and produce brochures, flyers, press releases, information pamphlets, media announcements, and other promotional or public information materials.
• Ability to plan and present communications and marketing programs using various types of media.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with limited supervision, and quickly comprehend and act on changing priorities when necessary.
• Ability to interact effectively with department personnel and others with tact and diplomacy.

Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Specific job duties may vary from position to position. The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other criteria prohibited by City, State, or Federal law.