Deputy Chief of Communications

Salary up to $180,000.00 annually

Position posted until filled

Works in collaboration in managing and implementing internal and external strategic communications, marketing, and public relations programs to support the Mayor’s Office and citywide communications.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Under the guidance of the Chief Communications Officer to assist in developing a comprehensive communication strategy to engage and inform, increase public understanding, obtain support, and maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, community-based organizations, community members, advisory committees, government agencies, and media. 
• Provides direct supervision under the leadership of the Chief Communications Officer of assigned communications staff and consultants responsible for designing and producing communications for events, community engagement and outreach, project information, education, internal, crisis communication, and digital media. 
• Oversees the content and continuity of the Department’s social media channels and website with consistent and accurate information and messaging that positively reflects the City of Atlanta 
• Collaborates in the planning and preparing speeches, special papers, testimonies, radio and television scripts, and other documents for the Mayor and other administrative officials. 
• Assists with coordinating media training to prepare staff, conduct media tours, and arrange speaking engagements for the Commissioner and senior staff as appropriate. 
• May represent the City of Atlanta as spokesperson to the media and the public; develops, manages, and implements proactive and responsive media relations programs; external messaging, including responding to press inquiries, producing press releases and statements of articles, and coordinating press conferences and media events on a local, state, national, and international level. 
• Assists with managing communications with the communities impacted by the Department’s initiatives and projects to understand needs and improve the communities served. 
• May interact with elected and appointed officials, community, and other leaders.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of prevailing best practices in communication, marketing, public relations, and emergency/crisis communication.
• Knowledge of municipal government communication preferred. 
• Knowledge of water utility management preferred.
• Knowledge of design principles and technology utilized to deliver compelling information and persuasive messages to diverse audiences. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and business acumen. 
• Ability to build consensus among disparate stakeholders. 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects. 
• Ability to maintain composure and meet deadlines in stressful situations.