DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING - $2000 SIGNING BONUS

Performs professional work in developing and administering a program of internal and external communications for the Town that encourages open communication and civic engagement. A position in this class serves as an information conduit for the community and provides information to the public, media, and town employees on programs, services, issues, and policies. Employee must exercise considerable initiative, imagination, and independent judgment to develop and implement programs.Work requires continuous contact with a variety of public officials, community leaders, media representatives, and the general public. Work is performed under general supervision of the Town Manager and is evaluated based on the recognized success of communications programs and civic engagement.Key Responsibilities:Represents the Town to the community at large through the development and maintenance of relationships with key community groups, external agencies, and/or other interested parties.Serves as a professional communications resource for the Town; managing community, Town, and media relations.Enhances and improves civic engagement with various community and civic groups in the area.Plans, develops, and directs programs to ensure dissemination of information designed to keep Town departments and the community informed of Town programs, services, activities, features, accomplishments, or positions.May conduct surveys to determine public opinion of Town government and/or programs.Produces communications materials about Town services by gathering information, writing, editing, and preparing layout for distribution to internal and external audiences.Assists with editorial writing, speech writing, press releases, marketing efforts, special events, and special projects.Answers inquiries from media representatives and/or the general public by providing information based on detailed knowledge of Town programs and activities and as required by state open records laws; may refer inquiries to the proper Town officials.Assists with community education programs about Town government and services, and develops other programs and materials to engage the community with Town affairs.Directs media inquiries to the appropriate Town contacts.Acts proactively regarding media relations; provides background information and additional materials as requested by reporters.Coordinates media conferences, as requested.Plans and participates in meetings with Town officials, general public, community groups, religious organizations, and schools to share information and discuss Town activities.Informs and educates citizens on the functions and processes of Town government.Enhances and advertises the e-mail notification service or list-serve for citizens interested in Town events, meetings, and services.Advises Town management, elected officials, and other department directors of the public relations effects of proposed policies and actions.Serves on various boards and committees representing the Town; conducts tours or seminars for the public or other governmental agencies.Prepares and makes presentations to various organizations.Assists in the production of original cable channel programming for MI Connection and other broadcast media.Develops, edits, and produces Town news and information in newsletters; responsible for web site content and the accuracy and timeliness of online information.Coordinates regular citizen education programs designed to educate and engage citizens in Town government.Performs short- and long-term planning aimed at increasing marketing and community relations outreach on a local and regional level; develops marketing plan as well as short- and long-term goals.Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in English, journalism, public or community relations, marketing, or a related field, and 5 to 7 years of experience in responsible public relations or related work with experience in local government or in a public organization preferred; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.Special Requirement:

Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license.

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