Head of Marketing Communications and PR

The Director of Marketing and Communications leads the strategic development and execution of integrated communications efforts that advance the mission of the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA). This role is responsible for shaping and elevating the public narrative around equitable urban redevelopment, economic growth, housing, and neighborhood revitalization across Pittsburgh.
As a senior leader, the Director serves as a trusted advisor to the Deputy Executive Director, Executive Director, and leadership team, ensuring that communications strategies effectively support policy priorities, major development initiatives, and partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels.
Director of Marketing and Communications
Communications

Divisional Unit: Central Operations

Reports to: Deputy Executive Director (Primary) and Executive Director
Strategic Communications & Narrative Development

Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with URA priorities, including equitable development, affordable housing, small business support, and infrastructure investment.
Shape messaging that reflects Pittsburghs evolving economic landscape, honoring its industrial legacy while promoting innovation and inclusive growth.
Ensure consistent brand voice and messaging across all platforms, initiatives, and departments.
Serve as the primary media contact and organizational spokesperson or oversee spokesperson responsibilities.
Cultivate relationships with local, regional, and national media.
Develop and execute sales and marketing plans and establish revenue targets in partnership with the Finance Department.
Create marketing campaigns which generate quality leads while ensuring promotional efforts are aligned with sales targets and organizational goals.
Design marketing materials and launch new advertisement strategies in alignment with organizational objectives.
Analyze sales data and market trends to adjust strategies, ensuring sales targets are achieved.
Community Engagement & Public Transparency
Ensure transparent, accessible, and culturally responsive communication with Pittsburghs diverse neighborhood
Support outreach related to redevelopment projects, including public meetings and stakeholder engagement.
Address community concerns such as displacement, affordability, and equitable development
Digital Strategy & Content Development
Oversee the website, social media, email communications, and multimedia content.
Highlight project milestones, funding opportunities, and community impact.
Crisis Communications & Issues Management
Develop and maintain crisis communications protocols.
Identify reputational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Leadership & Team Management
Lead the coordination, logistics, and document packaging of the monthly URA Board Meetings in collaboration with the Government Affairs and Legal departments
Lead and mentor Communications staff.
Manage the departmental budget, consultants, and vendors.
Establish KPIs and evaluate Communications department effectiveness.
Bachelors degree in Communications, Public Relations, Public Administration, Journalism, or related field (Masters preferred).

• 8 to 10+ years of progressive communications and marketing experience, preferably in government or economic development.
• Experience with leading branding and promotional strategies on behalf of an organization
• Experience developing and tracking KPIs and campaign results to optimize marketing spend and strategy
• Experience leading and managing marketing and/or communications teams
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills.

Strong media relations and crisis communications experience.
Strong understanding of government and public political structures.
Ability to engage diverse communities and navigate complex political environments.
Familiarity with community and economic programs and projects.
Experience leading strategic communications and crisis communications and branding.
Experience in post-industrial or legacy cities.
Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, including travel to County and City offices
Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, color, gender, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, political, and/or union affiliation.
AN APPLICANT MUST BE A CITY OF PITTSBURGH RESIDENT OR BECOME ONE AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT AT THE URA.