Chief Communications Officer

Frisco ISD•Frisco, TX

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Provide executive leadership for the District’s communications strategy, brand, and stakeholder engagement. Serve as a key advisor to the Superintendent and Board of Trustees, guiding communication strategy, crisis communication, managing of public perception, and strengthening of relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support student success and organizational effectiveness.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communications, or related field
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, marketing, public relations, or media relations.
Demonstrated leadership experience managing communications teams and large-scale communication initiatives.
Expertise in strategic communications, public relations, branding, and stakeholder engagement
Executive presence with the ability to advise and influence senior leadership, including the Superintendent and Board
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including speechwriting and messaging development
Strong knowledge of media relations, crisis communications, and issues management
Ability to anticipate and respond to public, political, and community perceptions
Experience using data, analytics, and KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to inform communication strategies
Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage teams and cross-functional initiatives
Knowledge of digital communications, social media strategy, and emerging technologies
Ability to build and maintain relationships with media, community, and governmental stakeholders
Knowledge of applicable laws, including the Texas Public Information Act and FERPA
Ability to manage complex and sensitive situations with sound judgment and discretion
Commitment to equity, accessibility, and inclusive communication practices

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or APR preferred
Experience in K–12 education, public sector, or governmental communications preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive Districtwide communications and community engagement strategy aligned with the District’s strategic plan and promote and position the District as a leader.
Support district goals related to student enrollment, staff recruitment, and retention.
Identify opportunities for positive media coverage, partnerships, and speaking engagements.
Conduct perception audits and climate assessments to monitor district reputation.
Ensure alignment of all campus and department communications with district messaging, brand standards, and priorities.
Monitor emerging communication trends and implement innovative strategies.
Oversee branding, marketing, advertising, and audience engagement strategies.
Identify target audiences and tailor messaging across multiple platforms and channels.
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and inform continuous improvement.
Lead long-range communications planning and proactive storytelling to strengthen district reputation.
Serve as a member of the Superintendent’s executive leadership team (cabinet).
Serve as a strategic advisor to the Superintendent and executive leadership on communication strategy, messaging, and public positioning.
Draft, review, and coordinate high-level communications including speeches, presentations, talking points, and correspondence for the Superintendent and Board of Trustees.
Support the Superintendent in crisis communication, media engagement, and stakeholder messaging.
Anticipate public, political, and community reactions to district decisions and advise leadership accordingly.
Lead stakeholder messaging strategy for major district initiatives, policy changes, and organizational shifts.
Coordinate cross-functional communication efforts during district transformation initiatives.
Provide communication coaching to the Superintendent, Board of Trustees, and senior leaders.
Coordinate communication planning for Board meetings, major initiatives, and District announcements.
Ensure consistent executive-level messaging across all internal and external communications.
Serve as the District’s official spokesperson and manage all media relations.
Build and maintain strong relationships with media, community organizations, and business partners.
Plan and oversee district events, press conferences, and community engagement initiatives.
Promote positive relationships between the district and community through strategic outreach.
Respond to media inquiries, public information requests, and community concerns.
Support communication efforts related to bond elections and major district initiatives.
Lead crisis communication planning, training, and response efforts for the District.
Develop and maintain crisis communication protocols and messaging frameworks.
Provide real-time communication support during emergencies and high-profile situations.
Train district and campus leaders on crisis communication best practices.
Manage sensitive issues with discretion, accuracy, and timeliness.
Oversee all digital communication platforms, including website, social media, and mass communication systems.
Direct content creation including print, video, photography, and multimedia storytelling.
Maintain a comprehensive archive of District media assets.
Ensure effective use of communication technologies and platforms to reach diverse audiences.
Monitor digital analytics to improve communication effectiveness.
Provide leadership and oversight of the Communications Department, including Print Shop and Web Services.
Monitor legislative developments and coordinate communication related to state and local policy changes.
Support advocacy efforts by aligning messaging with District priorities and community interests.
Assist leadership and support communication with elected officials and governmental agencies.
Oversee the identification, hiring, and management of external vendors.
Develop and manage departmental budget and resources effectively.
Hire, supervise, and evaluate staff; provide professional development and performance management.
Ensure compliance with applicable laws including Government Code, Election Code, the Texas Public Information Act, and FERPA.
Develop and publish required reports and maintain records.
Collaborate with internal departments and partner organizations such as the Frisco Education Foundation.
Other Duties as Assigned