Metropolitan Council
Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement
Metropolitan Council, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55400
Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement
Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/metrocouncil/jobs/newprint/4828829)
Apply
Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement
Salary
$131,040.00 - $212,742.40 Annually
Location
Minneapolis, MN
Job Type
Full-Time
Job Number
2025-00039
Division
Metro Transit
Department
Mktg Graphics Sales Comm Minn
Opening Date
02/25/2025
Closing Date
3/17/2025 11:59 PM Central
Description
Benefits
Questions
WHO WE ARE
We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services.More information about us on our website. (https://metrocouncil.org/About-Us/The-Council-Who-We-Are.aspx)
We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Metro Transitis one of the country's largest transit systems, employs more than 3,000 people, and provided more than 47.5 million rides in 2024 that connect people, strengthen communities, and improve lives through an integrated network of bus and rail transportation and resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk, or bike in the Twin Cities.
How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:
Metro Transit is seeking a Director of Strategic Communications and Engagement to lead marketing, creative services, communications, commuter programs and community engagement teams. If you have experience in marketing, communications, public relations, or community relations and a passion for making a positive impact in the Twin Cities, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping Metro Transit’s brand, strengthening community connections, and growing the transit system that keeps our metro moving.
What you would do in this job
Strategic Leadership & Brand Management
Listen and learn from our customers and community to shape communications and marketing strategies to ensure our services align with their needs, drive engagement, and create a meaningful, lasting impact
Collaborate with the General Manager and executive team to provide strategic guidance on public communications and branding, ensuring alignment with the agency’s strategic plan
Lead the creation and execution of short- and long-term marketing and communications strategies across print, digital, and social media platforms
Public Relations & Community Engagement
Ensure community engagement efforts are integrated into Metro Transit’s broader communications strategy, reflecting the needs and interests of the diverse communities we serve
Oversee media relations, including interview preparation, press releases, and responses to inquiries
Direct the development of social media and website content to improve public engagement and awareness of Metro Transit
Oversee the design and evaluation of mechanisms for gathering and analyzing community feedback, incorporating public input into service improvements and communication strategies
Stakeholder & Relationship Management
Foster positive relationships with community organizations, government agencies, and other key stakeholders to advance Metro Transit’s goals and improve public perception
Represent Metro Transit in meetings with external stakeholders and ensure internal representatives are well-prepared for community, government, and agency engagements
Identify opportunities for collaboration and ensure Metro Transit is effectively represented in regional and national opportunities
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
Support and guide staff and managers, fostering a strong and effective team while encouraging innovation and continuous improvement
Develop and monitor work plans, performance goals, and objectives for communications, marketing, and community engagement teams
Data Driven Strategies & Resource Management
Assess customer feedback, ridership trends, and other Metro Transit data to refine strategies and enhance customer satisfaction
Oversee the Marketing, Creative Services, Communications, and Community Affairs budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively
What education and experience are required for this job (minimum qualifications)
Any of the following combinations of experience in in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field and completed education in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field:
High school diploma/GED with thirteen (13) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Associate's degree with eleven (11) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Bachelor’s degree with nine (9) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Master's degree or higher with seven (7) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
What additional skills and experience would be helpful in this job (desired qualifications):
Strategic Communication & Public Engagement
Experience leading and managing crisis communications, media relations, and public-facing interactions
Strong understanding of stakeholder engagement practices, particularly in diverse and underserved communities
Skilled in verbal and written communication to effectively engage with stakeholders, media, and the public
Marketing & Digital Strategy
Expertise in integrated marketing strategies, including digital, social media, and traditional media channels, to enhance public engagement and brand visibility
Experience leveraging digital tools and platforms (e.g., social media, website analytics, email marketing) to drive engagement
Skilled in developing and executing data-driven marketing and communication strategies
Government & Community Relations
Knowledge of local and state government operations, public administration, and public relations
Experience in leadership roles within the non-profit or public sector, particularly in transportation or government agencies
Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with government agencies, media outlets, and community organizations
Leadership & Organizational Management
Experience in leadership or management roles, including serving as a key spokesperson
Skilled in coaching, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams
Experience planning, coordinating, and overseeing large-scale projects involving multiple stakeholders and departments
Experience leading organizational changes, including communications strategies to ensure smooth transitions
Budget Management & Data-Driven Decision-Making
Strong analytical skills to assess performance metrics, ridership data, and customer feedback to refine communication and outreach strategies
Experience in public sector budget planning, including forecasting and identifying new revenue and sponsorship opportunities
Skilled in budget management, resource allocation, and strategic planning for marketing and communication initiatives
What knowledge, skills, and abilities should you have within the first six months on the job:
Develop organizational knowledge and relationships to effectively serve as a spokesperson for Metro Transit
Analyze and evaluate existing communications, marketing, and community engagement plans to develop comprehensive forward-facing plans
Gain knowledge of systems, processes, and procedures in place for marketing, creative services, communications, commuter programs, and community engagement teams and identify efficiencies, opportunities for collaboration, and alignment
Develop a strong understanding of Metro Transit Forward strategic framework and its application in messaging and branding
Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic environment while managing multiple projects and priorities
Ability to ensure messaging and branding align with Metro Transit’s mission, vision, and strategic objectives
Ability to promote an equitable, positive, and respectful work environment that values culture and diversity among all employees
What you can expect from us:
We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training and tuition reimbursement.
We provide a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a good work/life balance.
More about why you should join us! (http://metrocouncil.org/Employment/Making-A-Difference.aspx)
Additional information
Union/Grade: Non-Represented/Grade M
FLSA Status: Exempt
Safety Sensitive: No
What your work environment would be:
You would perform your work in a standard office setting. Work may sometimes require travel between your primary work site and other sites.
What steps the recruitment process involves:
We review your minimum qualifications.
We review work record evaluations for ATU employees.
We rate your education and experience.
We conduct a structured panel interview.
We conduct a selection interview.
Once you have successfully completed the steps above, then:
If you are new to the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (safety-sensitive positions only), and a background check which verifies education, employment, and criminal history. A driving record check and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the job. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the job and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation.
If you are already an employee of the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (if moving from a non-safety sensitive position to a safety-sensitive position) and criminal background checks if the job you're applying for is safety-sensitive, is a supervisory or management job, is in the Finance, Information Services, Audit, or Human Resources departments, or has access to financial records, files/databases, cash, vouchers or transit fare cards. A driving record check and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.
IMPORTANT: If you make a false statement or withhold information, you may be barred from job consideration.
The Metropolitan Council is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and veteran-friendly employer. The Council is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region and strongly encourages persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply.
If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the selection process, please email HR-OCCHealth@metc.state.mn.us.
We believe our employees are a key to our agency's success! In order to attract and retain high quality employees, the Council provides a highly competitive benefits package both in choice and coverage levels. Some highlights about our benefits are listed below:
Guaranteed monthly retirement income through Minnesota State Retirement System pension fund
Opportunity to save additional funds for retirement on a tax-deferred basis through a voluntary deferred compensation (457) plan
Two or more medical plans from which to choose, with employer contribution towards premiums over 80%
Dental insurance, life insurance and vision insurance
The following benefits are provided to all employees as part of working for the Council. You will have access to free:
Well@Work clinic
bus/rail pass valued at over $1200 per year
parking at many job locations
fitness centers at many job locations
Employee Assistance Program
extensive health and wellness programs and resources
01
Applicant Instructions: The supplemental questions listed below are to further evaluate your education and experience and to determine your eligibility for this position. Answer each question completely and please do not type "see resume" otherwise your application will be considered incomplete, and you will not receive further consideration for this position. The experience you indicate in your responses should also be consistent with the Work History section of this application. If you attached a resume and/or cover letter to your application, it will be reviewed at the education and experience review step. I have read and understand the above instructions regarding supplemental questions.
Yes
No
02
How did you first hear about this job opening?
CareerForce Center
Community Event/Organization
Employee Referral
Facebook
Glassdoor
Indeed
Job Fair
LinkedIn
Metro Transit Bus Advertisement
Twitter
Website: governmentjobs.com
Website: metrocouncil.org
Website: metrotransit.org
Website: minnesotajobnetwork.com
Other
03
If you selected 'Other', please describe where you first heard about this job. OR if you selected 'Employee Referral', indicate the employee's full name and job title. Type N/A if not applicable.
04
Please select the option below that reflects your education and experience level.
High school diploma/GED with thirteen (13) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Associate degree in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with nine (11) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Bachelor's degree in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with nine (9) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Master's degree in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with nine (7) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
None of the above
05
Do you have at least five (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning?
Yes
No
06
If you answered "Yes" in the previous question, please describe your experience in management including supervision, budget management, and overseeing departmental strategic planning. If you answered "No", type N/A.
07
Please describe your ability to promote an equitable, positive, and respectful work environment that values diversity among all employees. If this does not apply, type "N/A."
08
Please describe your experience in a leadership role for the public sector with union employees. If this does not apply, type "N/A."
09
Please describe your experience in providing strategic direction to ensure community engagement efforts are fully integrated into an organization's communications plan. If this does not apply, type "N/A".
10
Please describe your experience with change management, including specific initiatives you have led or supported. How did you assess the need for change, gain stakeholder buy-in, and address resistance. Additionally, what strategies or frameworks did you use to ensure a smooth transition, and what were the measurable outcomes of your efforts? If this does not apply, type "N/A".
11
Please describe your experience with project management, including the types of projects you have managed, the methodologies and tools you have used, and how you have handled challenges such as scope changes, tight deadlines, or resource constraints. If this does not apply, type "N/A".
Required Question
Employer
Metropolitan Council
Address
390 Robert St. N.St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101
Website
https://metrocouncil.org
Apply
Please verify your email addressVerify Email
Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/metrocouncil/jobs/newprint/4828829)
Apply
Director, Strategic Communications & Engagement
Salary
$131,040.00 - $212,742.40 Annually
Location
Minneapolis, MN
Job Type
Full-Time
Job Number
2025-00039
Division
Metro Transit
Department
Mktg Graphics Sales Comm Minn
Opening Date
02/25/2025
Closing Date
3/17/2025 11:59 PM Central
Description
Benefits
Questions
WHO WE ARE
We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services.More information about us on our website. (https://metrocouncil.org/About-Us/The-Council-Who-We-Are.aspx)
We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Metro Transitis one of the country's largest transit systems, employs more than 3,000 people, and provided more than 47.5 million rides in 2024 that connect people, strengthen communities, and improve lives through an integrated network of bus and rail transportation and resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk, or bike in the Twin Cities.
How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:
Metro Transit is seeking a Director of Strategic Communications and Engagement to lead marketing, creative services, communications, commuter programs and community engagement teams. If you have experience in marketing, communications, public relations, or community relations and a passion for making a positive impact in the Twin Cities, we want to hear from you. Join us in shaping Metro Transit’s brand, strengthening community connections, and growing the transit system that keeps our metro moving.
What you would do in this job
Strategic Leadership & Brand Management
Listen and learn from our customers and community to shape communications and marketing strategies to ensure our services align with their needs, drive engagement, and create a meaningful, lasting impact
Collaborate with the General Manager and executive team to provide strategic guidance on public communications and branding, ensuring alignment with the agency’s strategic plan
Lead the creation and execution of short- and long-term marketing and communications strategies across print, digital, and social media platforms
Public Relations & Community Engagement
Ensure community engagement efforts are integrated into Metro Transit’s broader communications strategy, reflecting the needs and interests of the diverse communities we serve
Oversee media relations, including interview preparation, press releases, and responses to inquiries
Direct the development of social media and website content to improve public engagement and awareness of Metro Transit
Oversee the design and evaluation of mechanisms for gathering and analyzing community feedback, incorporating public input into service improvements and communication strategies
Stakeholder & Relationship Management
Foster positive relationships with community organizations, government agencies, and other key stakeholders to advance Metro Transit’s goals and improve public perception
Represent Metro Transit in meetings with external stakeholders and ensure internal representatives are well-prepared for community, government, and agency engagements
Identify opportunities for collaboration and ensure Metro Transit is effectively represented in regional and national opportunities
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
Support and guide staff and managers, fostering a strong and effective team while encouraging innovation and continuous improvement
Develop and monitor work plans, performance goals, and objectives for communications, marketing, and community engagement teams
Data Driven Strategies & Resource Management
Assess customer feedback, ridership trends, and other Metro Transit data to refine strategies and enhance customer satisfaction
Oversee the Marketing, Creative Services, Communications, and Community Affairs budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively
What education and experience are required for this job (minimum qualifications)
Any of the following combinations of experience in in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field and completed education in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field:
High school diploma/GED with thirteen (13) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Associate's degree with eleven (11) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Bachelor’s degree with nine (9) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Master's degree or higher with seven (7) years of experience, including f ive (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
What additional skills and experience would be helpful in this job (desired qualifications):
Strategic Communication & Public Engagement
Experience leading and managing crisis communications, media relations, and public-facing interactions
Strong understanding of stakeholder engagement practices, particularly in diverse and underserved communities
Skilled in verbal and written communication to effectively engage with stakeholders, media, and the public
Marketing & Digital Strategy
Expertise in integrated marketing strategies, including digital, social media, and traditional media channels, to enhance public engagement and brand visibility
Experience leveraging digital tools and platforms (e.g., social media, website analytics, email marketing) to drive engagement
Skilled in developing and executing data-driven marketing and communication strategies
Government & Community Relations
Knowledge of local and state government operations, public administration, and public relations
Experience in leadership roles within the non-profit or public sector, particularly in transportation or government agencies
Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with government agencies, media outlets, and community organizations
Leadership & Organizational Management
Experience in leadership or management roles, including serving as a key spokesperson
Skilled in coaching, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams
Experience planning, coordinating, and overseeing large-scale projects involving multiple stakeholders and departments
Experience leading organizational changes, including communications strategies to ensure smooth transitions
Budget Management & Data-Driven Decision-Making
Strong analytical skills to assess performance metrics, ridership data, and customer feedback to refine communication and outreach strategies
Experience in public sector budget planning, including forecasting and identifying new revenue and sponsorship opportunities
Skilled in budget management, resource allocation, and strategic planning for marketing and communication initiatives
What knowledge, skills, and abilities should you have within the first six months on the job:
Develop organizational knowledge and relationships to effectively serve as a spokesperson for Metro Transit
Analyze and evaluate existing communications, marketing, and community engagement plans to develop comprehensive forward-facing plans
Gain knowledge of systems, processes, and procedures in place for marketing, creative services, communications, commuter programs, and community engagement teams and identify efficiencies, opportunities for collaboration, and alignment
Develop a strong understanding of Metro Transit Forward strategic framework and its application in messaging and branding
Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic environment while managing multiple projects and priorities
Ability to ensure messaging and branding align with Metro Transit’s mission, vision, and strategic objectives
Ability to promote an equitable, positive, and respectful work environment that values culture and diversity among all employees
What you can expect from us:
We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training and tuition reimbursement.
We provide a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a good work/life balance.
More about why you should join us! (http://metrocouncil.org/Employment/Making-A-Difference.aspx)
Additional information
Union/Grade: Non-Represented/Grade M
FLSA Status: Exempt
Safety Sensitive: No
What your work environment would be:
You would perform your work in a standard office setting. Work may sometimes require travel between your primary work site and other sites.
What steps the recruitment process involves:
We review your minimum qualifications.
We review work record evaluations for ATU employees.
We rate your education and experience.
We conduct a structured panel interview.
We conduct a selection interview.
Once you have successfully completed the steps above, then:
If you are new to the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (safety-sensitive positions only), and a background check which verifies education, employment, and criminal history. A driving record check and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the job. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the job and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation.
If you are already an employee of the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (if moving from a non-safety sensitive position to a safety-sensitive position) and criminal background checks if the job you're applying for is safety-sensitive, is a supervisory or management job, is in the Finance, Information Services, Audit, or Human Resources departments, or has access to financial records, files/databases, cash, vouchers or transit fare cards. A driving record check and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.
IMPORTANT: If you make a false statement or withhold information, you may be barred from job consideration.
The Metropolitan Council is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and veteran-friendly employer. The Council is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region and strongly encourages persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply.
If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the selection process, please email HR-OCCHealth@metc.state.mn.us.
We believe our employees are a key to our agency's success! In order to attract and retain high quality employees, the Council provides a highly competitive benefits package both in choice and coverage levels. Some highlights about our benefits are listed below:
Guaranteed monthly retirement income through Minnesota State Retirement System pension fund
Opportunity to save additional funds for retirement on a tax-deferred basis through a voluntary deferred compensation (457) plan
Two or more medical plans from which to choose, with employer contribution towards premiums over 80%
Dental insurance, life insurance and vision insurance
The following benefits are provided to all employees as part of working for the Council. You will have access to free:
Well@Work clinic
bus/rail pass valued at over $1200 per year
parking at many job locations
fitness centers at many job locations
Employee Assistance Program
extensive health and wellness programs and resources
01
Applicant Instructions: The supplemental questions listed below are to further evaluate your education and experience and to determine your eligibility for this position. Answer each question completely and please do not type "see resume" otherwise your application will be considered incomplete, and you will not receive further consideration for this position. The experience you indicate in your responses should also be consistent with the Work History section of this application. If you attached a resume and/or cover letter to your application, it will be reviewed at the education and experience review step. I have read and understand the above instructions regarding supplemental questions.
Yes
No
02
How did you first hear about this job opening?
CareerForce Center
Community Event/Organization
Employee Referral
Glassdoor
Indeed
Job Fair
Metro Transit Bus Advertisement
Website: governmentjobs.com
Website: metrocouncil.org
Website: metrotransit.org
Website: minnesotajobnetwork.com
Other
03
If you selected 'Other', please describe where you first heard about this job. OR if you selected 'Employee Referral', indicate the employee's full name and job title. Type N/A if not applicable.
04
Please select the option below that reflects your education and experience level.
High school diploma/GED with thirteen (13) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Associate degree in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with nine (11) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Bachelor's degree in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with nine (9) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
Master's degree in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with nine (7) years of experience in business, communications, marketing, public relations, public administration, or closely related field with at least five (5) years of management experience leading staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning
None of the above
05
Do you have at least five (5) years of management experience leading/directing staff, managing budgets, and overseeing departmental strategic planning?
Yes
No
06
If you answered "Yes" in the previous question, please describe your experience in management including supervision, budget management, and overseeing departmental strategic planning. If you answered "No", type N/A.
07
Please describe your ability to promote an equitable, positive, and respectful work environment that values diversity among all employees. If this does not apply, type "N/A."
08
Please describe your experience in a leadership role for the public sector with union employees. If this does not apply, type "N/A."
09
Please describe your experience in providing strategic direction to ensure community engagement efforts are fully integrated into an organization's communications plan. If this does not apply, type "N/A".
10
Please describe your experience with change management, including specific initiatives you have led or supported. How did you assess the need for change, gain stakeholder buy-in, and address resistance. Additionally, what strategies or frameworks did you use to ensure a smooth transition, and what were the measurable outcomes of your efforts? If this does not apply, type "N/A".
11
Please describe your experience with project management, including the types of projects you have managed, the methodologies and tools you have used, and how you have handled challenges such as scope changes, tight deadlines, or resource constraints. If this does not apply, type "N/A".
Required Question
Employer
Metropolitan Council
Address
390 Robert St. N.St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101
Website
https://metrocouncil.org
Apply
Please verify your email addressVerify Email