AUGUST 10, 2024VISIONTHE OPPORTUNITYThe Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition in Norman, Oklahoma, seeks a visionary Director of Communications to lead our transformative county-wide economic development efforts. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of the third-largest county in the state and one of Oklahoma's most dynamic and fastest-growing. As a leadership team member, you will spearhead our communications and community engagement/outreach strategy, ultimately elevating Cleveland County's profile locally, regionally, and nationally.Norman has recently been recognized as one of the Top 25 Places to Live in the Southwest by Livability.com, and a prime reason for that is the presence of the University of Oklahoma, which provides residents with access to stellar higher education and quality of life amenities. In addition, Mid-American Christian University and Moore-Norman Technology Center offer premier training programs that support workforce development, ensuring a skilled labor pool for our employers and local businesses.Cleveland County is well-known for its work ethic, sense of community pride, and active engagement in annual events, fostering community spirit and connection. The area also offers a rich history, historical sites, cultural attractions, and hundreds of annual festivals celebrating our region’s heritage.Cleveland County offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Situated just minutes from downtown Oklahoma City, our county boasts a highly educated workforce, a robust economy, and a rich cultural scene. In this role, you will have the opportunity to:Craft compelling narratives that highlight our county's strengths, showcase our existing industry, and attract new businesses and talent.Collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and community partners.Coordinate and lead civic education and innovative marketing campaigns that position Cleveland County as a premier destination for investment and growth opportunities.Mentor and develop a talented communications team as the organization develops and evolves.If you are a methodical thinker enthusiastic about cultivating and establishing collaborative efforts and economic development with a history of success in communications roles, we invite you to join us in shaping the future for Cleveland County’s growth and success.Position: “Director” or “Vice President” of Communications, depending on experience• Reports to President and CEO• Status: Exempt• Post Close Date: September 20th, 2024Position ScopeThe individual responsible for communications is an integral member of the senior leadership team, responsible for directing the Cleveland County EDC's communications, marketing, and public relations strategies and practices. This individual will manage a comprehensive communication program and collaborate with community partners to raise Cleveland County’s profile with local, regional, and national stakeholders and audiences.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesDevelop and deliver a strategic communications plan to enrich Cleveland County’s brand locally, regionally, and nationally.Set strategic direction for communications tactics and content: websites and blogs; social media; email marketing; publications, reports, and newsletters; news releases; paid media; video; media placements; etcetera.Create internal and corporate communications policies and practices to support the organization’s vision, mission, and values.Set current and long-term goals, measure programming, track objectives and report out on communications metrics.Counsel the Coalition’s executives and staff on public relations and communications best practices.Work with contracted PR agencies to share storylines, advance pitches, direct paid media campaigns, and develop collateral materials.Consult with community representatives throughout the county and interdepartmental stakeholders to create effective strategies and tactics to support organizational goals.Develop and implement communications to the CCEDC Board of Directors and top investors throughout the county.Write scripts for CCEDC events and speaking engagements. Ensure CCEDC representatives are coached and prepared for public engagements and media interviews.Lead communications to and cultivate relationships with the media, oversee press events, and function as spokesperson when needed.Manage communications staff and departmental operations budget, resources, agency contracts, and growth opportunities.Education and Experience· Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field is required. Minimum of five years of experience in a communications role with similar responsibilities. Candidates with experience in community development or economic development are preferred.· Accredited in public relations (APR) or advanced degree a plus.· Design experience is critical, preferably with the Adobe suite of products.Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities· Demonstrated experience and capability in managing comprehensive strategic marketing and communications.· Demonstrated skill and comfort in proactively building relationships with diverse audiences and stakeholders.· Excellent judgment, creative problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.· Ability to make decisions in a changing environment and anticipate future needs.· Energetic, flexible, collaborative, and initiative-taking; a team leader who can positively impact both strategy and tactics.· Excellent written and verbal communication skills and extraordinary attention to detail.· High degree of proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, web content management systems, and video production tools.Work Environment· Typical office environment for daily operations. Participation or attendance will be required at events during evenings and occasionally on weekends.TO APPLYNo later than September 20, 2024,
please provide a short case study outlining a communications, public relations, or marketing program you developed and implemented. It should include, at a minimum, these three elements:The challengeThe solutionThe outcomeYour case study should be no longer than two pages. Applicants should submit their resume, cover letter, salary requirements, and short case study to:Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition424 W. Main St.Norman, OK 73069or:
Info@SelectClevelandCounty.com
#J-18808-Ljbffr
See details and apply
Director of Communications