General Statement of Duties and Distinguishing Features of Class

Reports to Assistant City Manager or designee. Under general supervision and administrative direction, develops, research, recommends, and oversees the implementation of a comprehensive public information program and strategy, including media relations, public relations, and marketing and promotion for the City. 

Responsibilities include: developing and directing public relations, media relations, and public affairs strategies; overseeing organization’s social media presence; managing internal and external messaging and branding; developing communications plans and strategies in alignment with internal short and long term plans; managing the City’s website content and improvements; acting as spokesperson for the City in responding to inquiries from the media and public; working closely with executives and staff to ensure messaging is consistent and tailored to targeted audiences. The Public Information Officer is responsible for supervising staff and overseeing, developing, and implementing City-wide communication strategies.

This is a public service job based on trust, credibility, and competency. It is a critical requirement of this position that the incumbent displays the desire and ability to perform and behave (on duty, as well as off duty) in a manner that does not damage or endanger the loss of trust with the public, co-workers, and other public safety forces. Candidates must meet the following qualifications and requirements at the time of appointment.

Examples of Work (Illustrative Only)

• Develop and implement the City’s communication strategies, messaging, and outreach; direct the development and implementation of initiatives and programs to enhance public awareness of City activities, events, projects, critical issues, and challenges.
• Serves as steward of the City’s logo and branding ensuring its consistency in use in accordance with established branding guidelines.
• Conceptualize, design, and produce city-wide publications and other written material for internal and external stakeholders.
• Develops and assists with marketing campaigns for key City initiatives.
• Develop, update, and maintain City websites and promotional media including digital, video and print.
• Provide strategic communication advice and recommendations to City Manager and executive leadership in support of the City’s programs, services, goals, and mission.
• Collaborate with City departments to develop marketing and promotional strategies related to their operations.
• Develop and maintain relationships and partnerships with internal departments, public and private agencies and organizations, and non-profit and community groups.
• Prioritizes and manages news media requests for information and serve as spokesperson for the City when assigned.
• Processes and tracks Public Records Requests from media, customers, contractors, law enforcement, county agencies, and others interested parties.
• Oversee the development of public engagement events and advise managers on public involvement; oversee delegation and response to requests for assistance from managers; advise on key audiences, messages, and strategies for public involvement on a wide variety of programs.
• Supervise staff in developing and implementing public relations, media, marketing, community outreach, or other communication strategies; provide ongoing direction and leadership.
• Create a positive and supportive work environment; promote an equitable workplace that demonstrates an environment respectful of living and working in a multicultural society.
• Prepares speaking points, presentations, and messaging for City officials.
• Train and lead staff in data collection methods and implementation of projects as assigned.
• Considerable knowledge of copy writing, copy editing, and printing techniques required to prepare a variety of publications.
• Considerable knowledge of English grammar and composition.
• Knowledge of photography, videography, and print media.
• Good knowledge of data-collection techniques.
• Thorough familiarity with and skill in the use of a personal computer and software relevant to area of assignment including Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, and Photoshop.
• Ability to present ideas concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and government officials, the news media, and the public, proficient public speaking skills.
• Ability to work with a high degree of independence and to meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent judgment.
• Ability to multitask and adjust to meet priorities of the City.
• All other duties as assigned.