Communications Administrator

City of Lauderhill•Lauderhill, FL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of this position is to serve as the City’s official spokesperson for the City’s external communications, under the direction of the City Manager or designee. Employees in this classification are responsible for supporting the City’s strategic goals by creating, reviewing, and managing external communications, responding to media requests, and coordinating emergency communications by partnering with the City’s Emergency Response Departments (i.e., Police Department, Fire Department, and Public Works Department). All coordination of communications, with the exception of those related to emergencies, shall be conducted through this position. Position is responsible for executing effective programs to inform and educate the public and news media about information regarding the City of Lauderhill.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution, in journalism, marketing, communications, public administration, or closely related field
Four (4) years of experience with progressive communications and/or public relations responsibility preferably within a governmental or public sector organization
Two (2) years of experience leading and managing a team, including scheduling meetings, assigning tasks, and providing regular reports
Two (2) years of experience implementing communication strategies and addressing and resolving issues related to press releases, media requests, and public updates
Valid State of Florida Driver’s License

Responsibilities

Functions as an official spokesperson for the agency in external communications with the media regarding operations, programs and/or events as directed by the City Manager or designee; serves as main point of contact for news media in both emergency and non-emergency situations, except for police and fire activities.
Maintains contact with the media; coordinates interviews with the City officials; supports Emergency Management Personnel in maintaining an effective crisis communications plan; coordinates news coverage at incidents and other agency events.
Develops, implements procedures for, and responds to media and general public requests for information, including responses to media outlets, citizen requests and other inquiries; manages the City’s newsletter and other formal communication avenues.
Ensures that external facing media is continuously update with City events and City Manager approved content.
Supports optimal visual design and City branding awareness by ensuring that all published content is clear, consistent, and represents the City in a professional manner.
Works with administration and various departments to prepare public statements, press releases, photos and supporting data for the news media; works collaboratively with departments to identify, develop, and approve published content to ensure singular branding.
Coordinates closely with departments to align messaging across programming and initiatives, promoting interdepartmental communication to ensure consistency and accuracy in all public communications.
Serves as the liaison to various agencies to help promote the city and its community stakeholders.
Writes, shoots, produces, edits, and strategizes City videos for re-broadcast on the City’s local station, social media and City website.
Provides support to the Emergency Manager during crisis and emergency situations.
Identifies potential negative or crisis situation and advises City administration of methods for mitigating issues.
Adapts to daily priorities as needed by the City; ensures responsive communications thru variety of channels that are adapted to evolving needs.
Responds to media requests for interviews; arranges and coordinates news conferences; conducts inter-agency interviews in compiling information.
Researches, assembles, edits, and presents news materials through written media and oral communications.
Compiles Department records/information requested under Public Documents Law, Chapter 119.
Performs essential functions under stressful situations including disasters and incidents; supports immediate needs of the City as they occur after normal working hours and/or over weekends.
Performs other duties as assigned.