Communications and Media Relations Manager

State of Oklahoma•Oklahoma City, OK

5d•$65,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Communication and Media Relations Manager is responsible for leading external communications and media relations efforts for the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). This role develops and delivers strategic messaging, serves as a primary media contact, and supports senior leadership through effective communication planning and execution. The Manager plays a critical role in shaping public perception, ensuring message consistency, and supporting rapid-response communications in a fast-paced environment. Please note: This role requires a consistent, in-person presence at the designated workplace in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with no remote, telecommuting, or hybrid options. This position has been designated as executive management and is exempted from the civil service rules established by the Civil Service and Human Capital Modernization Act.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field [official transcripts required upon hire]
Three (3) to Five (5) years of experience in communications, media relations, or public affairs
Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Strong understanding of media relations and news cycles
Experience managing social media platforms in a professional setting
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders
An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without sponsorship now or in the future
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check
Must possess a valid driver’s license from a U.S. state or territory to perform necessary job-related travel
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to convey complex information clearly and engagingly.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Regular and reliable in-person attendance is required to ensure quality teamwork, performance, productivity, and collaboration
Ability to demonstrate a commitment to your work and team by committing to punctuality and dependability in the work environment
Ability to identify and address the evolving needs and challenges of the education landscape
Ability to think critically, explore new ideas, and embrace innovative approaches to improve educational outcomes for all students
Ensure our resources are utilized effectively, and our operations are streamlined
Willingness to go above and beyond to provide outstanding assistance that exceeds expectations, ability to create positive experiences and build relationships based on trust and satisfaction
Ability to clearly and concisely express ideas, while also listening actively to others and demonstrating understanding
Take a proactive approach and work independently
Collaborate as a team player
Demonstrate excellent planning and organizational skills
Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to function well in an, at times, stressful, fast-paced, and deadline-driven environment
Ability to build strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders
Possess strong interpersonal skills to resolve conflicts and manage difficult conversations constructively and professionally
Knowledge of technology and ability to use it to maximize efficiency and services

Nice To Haves

Experience in education, government, or public sector communications
Familiarity with Oklahoma’s media landscape
Experience supporting executive-level communications or public officials
Knowledge of the education sector and policy issues is an asset
Knowledge of the education sector and policy issues is an asset

Responsibilities

Develop and execute social media content calendars to ensure consistent and engaging posts.
Create compelling and visually appealing content, including graphics, videos, and infographics, to share updates, announcements, and educational resources.
Collaborate with internal teams to gather information and content for social media posts and campaigns.
Managing the agency’s social media platforms to enhance brand visibility, engage with followers, and promote key messages and initiatives.
Monitor social media channels for trends, news, and conversations relevant to education and OSDE initiatives.
Assist in the development and dissemination of press releases, newsletters, and other communication materials as needed.
Provide support for events, conferences, and other communication initiatives, including live coverage and social media promotion.
Providing support for events, conferences, and other communication initiatives, which may include planning, promotion, logistics, and on-site coverage.

Benefits

Generous Benefits Allowance: Up to $21,934.08 annually, tailored to family size, for purchasing benefits.
Comprehensive Insurance Plans: Choose from a variety of insurance plans with no pre-existing conditions, exclusions, or limitations.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Manage healthcare expenses and/or dependent care with ease.
Full Participation in TRS: Enjoy employer-covered contributions (7.5% of annual salary) for Teacher’s Retirement System participation.
Generous Leave Policy: Full-time employees receive 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave in their first year.
Paid Holidays: Benefit from 11 paid holidays per year.
Employee Discounts: Access discounts with various companies and vendors.
Longevity Bonus: Earn a bonus after completing two years of service, with bonuses continuing annually thereafter.
Compensatory Time: FLSA Exempt and Nonexempt employees receive compensatory time.
Employee Assistance Program: Access support and resources through our Employee Assistance Program.