COMMUNICATION MANAGER

Atos•Irving, SD

About The Position

We are seeking a strategic, highly collaborative Communications Manager to lead and evolve communications for a large statewide Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) transformation program. This is a high-visibility role supporting a complex, statewide initiative. This position serves as the primary communications liaison between the project team and the client, responsible for ensuring clear, consistent, and effective communication across a diverse stakeholder landscape. The Communications Manager will own and continuously mature an existing communications plan, ensuring it adapts to project needs, risks, and stakeholder expectations. The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of the California 9-1-1 ecosystem and PSAP community, combined with demonstrated experience leading communications for large transformation initiatives. This role requires influence without authority, strong judgment in high-stakes environments, and the ability to translate complex technical and operational topics into clear, actionable messaging.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Administration, Business Administration, Emergency Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
7+ years of experience in public safety, emergency communications, or closely related environments
Demonstrated experience supporting large transformation programs, preferably in government or public sector environments
Strong understanding of the California 9-1-1 system and PSAP community, including operational and stakeholder dynamics
Proven ability to lead communications across complex, multi-stakeholder environments without direct authority
Experience developing executive-level communications and supporting high-visibility initiatives
Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to operate effectively in high-pressure, high-scrutiny environments with sound judgment and professionalism

Nice To Haves

Experience with NG9-1-1 programs or similar large public safety technology transformations
Background in or direct support of 9-1-1 communications centers (PSAPs), particularly within California
Familiarity with emergency communications technologies (e.g., CAD, radio systems, NG9-1-1 concepts)
Experience with structured change management or communications frameworks
Relevant certifications such as NENA ENP, APCO credentials, PMP, or change management certifications

Responsibilities

Lead the execution and continuous evolution of the project communications plan as a living document aligned to project milestones, risks, and stakeholder needs
Provide strategic oversight for all project communications across a complex, high-visibility statewide transformation effort
Serve as the primary communications liaison between the project team and the client, coordinating messaging, alignment, and communication-related escalations
Develop clear, consistent communications for technical, operational, executive, and external audiences, translating complex program information into accessible messaging
Create executive-level briefings, reports, and materials to support senior leadership, legislative engagement, and oversight activities
Coordinate communications across internal teams, SMEs, and external stakeholders including PSAPs, public safety agencies, and partner organizations
Support both internal and external communications efforts in alignment with client expectations and project objectives
Lead communication strategies that support organizational change, stakeholder adoption, and readiness for NG9-1-1 capabilities
Proactively manage sensitive or high-visibility communications
Monitor communication effectiveness through stakeholder feedback and performance metrics, and adjust strategies to improve engagement and clarity
Facilitate meetings, develop communication templates, and ensure consistency and quality across all project communications
Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, standards, and best practices in all communications activities
Own and continuously evolve the project communications plan as a living document aligned to project milestones, risks, and stakeholder needs
Develop and deliver clear, consistent messaging tailored to technical, operational, executive, and public safety audiences
Translate complex program developments into accessible communications that drive understanding and alignment
Serve as the primary point of contact for all communications coordination between the project team and the client
Build and maintain strong relationships across internal teams, the client, PSAP stakeholders, and partner organizations
Facilitate alignment across diverse, and often independent, stakeholder groups
Lead communication efforts supporting organizational and operational change associated with project implementation
Partner with SMEs and project leaders to develop messaging that supports adoption, readiness, and stakeholder confidence
Anticipate and proactively address stakeholder concerns, resistance, and communication gaps
Develop executive-level briefings, reports, and communication materials for senior leadership and oversight bodies
Support communications related to stakeholder interest, audits, and external oversight activities
Ensure messaging is accurate, timely, and appropriate for high-scrutiny environments
Coordinate and manage communication-related escalations between the project and client
Support development of messaging for sensitive issues, risks, delays, or operational impacts
Ensure consistency and alignment in messaging during high-pressure or time-sensitive situations
Partner with technical and operational SMEs to develop accurate and effective communications
Leverage cross-functional input to produce high-quality deliverables
Establish communication templates, standards, and governance processes
Define and track communication effectiveness metrics, including stakeholder engagement and feedback
Continuously refine communication approaches based on data, feedback, and evolving project dynamics