Director of Communications and Engagement

General Definition of Work

The Director of Communications and Engagement, under minimal supervision, performs senior-level work with considerable decision-making discretion developing and executing strategic communication plans that enhance organizational visibility, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and foster employee engagement.  Position supports effective communication to the Board of Education (BOE) and provides oversight of internal and external communications, brand management, and engagement initiatives to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.  Employee performs advanced work to carry out Board of Education policies and procedures under the direction of the Chief of Strategic Communications and Engagement. 

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Salary/Status

Market Pay Grade 10/Full-time, 12 months

Reports To

Chief of Strategic Communications and Engagement

Place of Work

The normal place of work is on the premises used by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte- Mecklenburg Schools reserves the right to require you to work at such other place(s) as it may reasonably require from time to time.

 Essential Functions

• Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures
• Lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate assigned programs/staff in the district
• Assist in the development and implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy to support organizational goals and inform the community/media on important information
• Develop and implement informational and targeted messaging to the public related to district activities and goals through various channels including but not limited to video, website, social media, and community events
• Identify and facilitate media and community engagement opportunities that promote positive community relations
• Communicate effectively with the media and maximize opportunities to enhance dialogue and opportunities for positive public relations
• Draft press releases, media advisories, speeches, presentations, etc.
• Assist with planning and implementing special events such as bond campaigns, groundbreakings, and building dedications
• Develop engagement frameworks that promote two-way communication and community involvement
• Support BOE communication and media strategies, including social media, content distribution, website, social media platforms, community engagement calendar, etc.
• Monitor news media and social media daily
• Respond to internal and external customers in a timely, accurate, courteous and empathetic manner
• Monitor and participate in the development and administration of the department budget
• Facilitate staff meetings and attend other related meetings as needed/required
• Complete local, state, or federal surveys and reports accurately and promptly
• Participate in professional development workshops and leadership training
• Create an inclusive environment with positive communication/public relations
• Perform related work as assigned or required

 Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of county and school board policies, procedures, and standards
• Demonstrated knowledge of creative writing, editing and organizational skills
• Knowledge of the needs and interests of leadership and schools to develop, steward and enhance relationships
• Ability to meet deadlines and successfully coordinate multiple projects at one time
• Ability to manage and enhance relationships with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with people to focus resources (both human and financial) toward the achievement of fundraising and development goals
• Ability to use effective public relations, writing and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain professional and emotional control under stress
• Ability to reflect appropriate response to situations, while maintaining a professional and personal demeanor
• Ability to learn and use specialized tools, equipment or software related to business needs
• Ability to direct and evaluate the work of others
• Ability to implement local, state, and federal rules, guidelines, and procedures into daily business operations
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationships
• Ability to employ positive communication skills in all settings/mediums
• Ability to problem-solve utilizing sound judgment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school system business
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and exercise sound judgement
• Ability to develop related charts, graphs, reports, and records pertaining to school planning and strategy
• Ability to conceptualize, initiate, monitor, and evaluate new and/or current programs
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed work, planning, risk assessments, and associated risk mitigation actions
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environment

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business, education, communication, public administration, non-profit management, public policy, or related area required
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in community relations and/or engagement, corporate social responsibility, educational advancement, communications, or public policy preferred
• Experience supporting school administrators to implement strategic initiatives preferred 
• Equivalent combination of education and experience

 Special Requirements

• Possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License or ability to provide own transportation
• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings
• May be required to attend offsite and/or community events that may occur outside of normal business hours. Must provide own transportation for travel throughout the district