Posting Date02/11/25Application Deadline02/25/25Pay Range$144,500 – $202,500 annually Salary offers are based on the candidate's equivalent experience and internal equity with other employees within the same job classification. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.Job TypeUnclassifiedDepartmentCounty ManagerAbout the PositionMaricopa County is seeking a Communications Director to manage the reputation of our large and innovative government organization. This position leads an experienced team of communications professionals who provide consultation and products in strategic and crisis communications, media relations, web design and content, branding, video production, marketing, social media strategy, employee communications, event planning, and more. The Communications Director works closely with executive leadership and the elected Board of Supervisors to align messaging with countywide strategic goals and respond to sensitive internal and external issues that arise. As such, an in-depth understanding of the political and governmental landscape in Arizona is crucial for this position. About UsMaricopa County is one of the nation’s fastest growing counties, home to approximately four and a half million people. With more than 13,000 employees serving the public in areas including safety, public health, flood control, education, parks, libraries, and more, we are an organization that believes in service that helps you solve a problem, move forward with a project, manage a difficult situation, or simply check something off your list.The County is governed by five elected district supervisors, who approve a budget for all departments and elected offices. The Board of Supervisors appoints a county manager who is charged with carrying out the vision of the Board. The Communications Director works under the County Manager’s Office.Proud To OfferWork with a greater purposeTuition reimbursementExceptional work-life balance, with hybrid and alternative work schedule optionsOpportunities for growth and development within Maricopa CountyLow-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependentsPaid vacation, sick time, and parental leaveExtensive wellness program, including healthcare premium discountsEmployee discounts for goods and servicesMaricopa County participates in the Arizona State Retirement System. This defined retirement benefit requires a 12.27% monthly contribution rate and includes a 100% employer match on Day 1Learn more at Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZWe RequireTen years of professional communications or public relations experience, with five of those years in a management or leadership roleBachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or a related fieldPostgraduate degrees or professional-level experience may substitute for the education or experience on a year-for-year basisWe Also ValueExperience working in the public sector, especially with or for an elected bodyExperience managing and leading a team of professionalsComfort speaking to members of the media, including for live or taped interviewsStrong project management skills, including event planningExperience writing clear and accurate messages on tight deadlinesJob ContributionsManages the day-to-day operations of the county’s Office of CommunicationsPlans, implements and directs departmental short- and long-term goals to align with countywide prioritiesMaintains extensive and positive relationships with local and national mediaServes as primary media contact and spokesperson as neededOversees press eventsParticipates in strategic planning with the Board of Supervisors and County ManagerConsults and advises on complex, sensitive issues from a communications and public relations perspectiveOversees communications tactics to enhance and protect the county’s reputation in coordination with the Board of Supervisors and County ManagerWrites or oversees production of high-level communications from board members and executive leadershipOversees internal communications to engage and inform thousands of staff members across more than 40 departmentsOversees external communications to engage and inform Maricopa County’s 4.5 million residentsCollaborates with department public information officers across the countyCreates and updates countywide communication policies and best practicesRegularly reviews state and federal laws, court cases, and legislation that may impact business operations and public sentimentMakes presentations to the Board of Supervisors and County managementOversees the preparation and management of the department’s budgetIdentifies opportunities for technological advancement to enhance communicationsEnsures superior customer service, integrity and commitment to innovation, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility from all staff membersWorking ConditionsMost work is performed in an office environment. Some remote work is possible. Attendance may be required at community or media events that occur outside regular business hours.Selection ProcedureOnly the most qualified candidates will be consideredConsideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applicationsCandidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profileMust pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitiveMaricopa County is an equal opportunity employer.Apply Now!SummaryLocation: 301 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003; Phoenix, AZ (Hybrid)Type: Full time
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Communications Director