Communications Director POS#123020001

Cumberland County•226 Bradford Avenue Fayetteville, NC

About The Position

Cumberland County is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and community-focused Communications Director to lead its Public Information Office. This role is responsible for establishing a unified communications vision, championing proactive communication practices, and ensuring information is timely, accessible, consistent, and meaningful. The ideal candidate is a confident communicator, adept at both strategy development and public delivery, with the ability to handle sensitive issues with authenticity and professionalism. Success requires strong team leadership, collaboration, and the ability to foster a culture of effective communication. The role involves understanding the unique needs of a diverse community, building connections with residents and partners, and increasing awareness of County programs and services. This is an opportunity for a visionary leader to evaluate and strengthen the County's internal and external communication strategies, fostering greater understanding, trust, and engagement.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master’s degree in communications, journalism, public administration, marketing, or a closely related field.
Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in leading a communications team for a public entity, media outlet or a similar environment.
At least two (2) of the years must be in a lead or supervisor role.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Knowledge of the organization, functions, and operations of governing bodies, management staff, and operational departments.
Knowledge of basic laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations applicable to local government.
Knowledge of the structure, functions, and relationships of local, state, and federal governments.
Knowledge of communications principles, practices, strategies, and applicable software applications.
Skills in attentive and active listening and the ability to understand and respond appropriately to diverse perspectives.
Skills in communicating information clearly, effectively, and professionally through both oral and written methods.
Skills in developing and delivering presentations to a variety of audiences.
Skills in managing multiple priorities, meeting deadlines, and completing assignments in a timely manner.
Skills in working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, educational levels, and areas of expertise.
Skills in collaborating within a team environment and building cooperation and positive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
Skills in overseeing projects and coordinating activities to achieve established goals and desired outcomes.
Skills in developing and organizing tasks, activities, and timelines necessary to successfully complete projects and initiatives.
Ability to effectively lead and supervise staff, including recruitment, training, mentoring, performance development, progressive discipline, scheduling, and assignment of work.
Ability to communicate clearly, consistently, and strategically while understanding how information may be interpreted and received by different audiences.
Ability to assess the needs of the intended audience and determine the most relevant, appropriate, and effective information and communication method.
Ability to communicate information regarding the County in a thoughtful, accurate, and sensitive manner that protects the County’s reputation and reflects positively on the County and Board of Commissioners.
A formal transcript will be required.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Must obtain and show proof of a valid NC driver's license within 60 days of hire if your license is from another state.

Responsibilities

Directs the strategic planning, organization, and daily operations of the Public Information Office to ensure effective and consistent delivery of communications services.
Establishes departmental goals, objectives, and performance measures aligned with County leadership, Board of Commissioners directives, and recognized professional standards.
Leads short- and long-term communications planning to support the County’s strategic mission, priorities, and organizational objectives.
Develops, reviews, and updates public information policies, procedures, and communication practices to ensure accuracy, relevance, consistency, and alignment with County priorities.
Oversees the departmental budget, including planning for staffing, technology, equipment, materials, and resources necessary to support effective communications operations.
Ensures timely, accurate, and effective communication services for County departments, employees, elected officials, the media, and the public.
Advises and supports County Management with communications strategies for special initiatives, policy decisions, public events, and other matters requiring coordinated public messaging.
Develops and edits executive communications, speeches, talking points, presentations, press materials, and other written, visual, and verbal content.
Creates, reviews, and prepares news releases, public notices, informational materials, and other communications for distribution to the media, residents, community groups, government officials, and employees.
Builds and maintains strategic partnerships with County departments, community organizations, media representatives, and external stakeholders to strengthen public awareness and engagement.
Consults with County departments and collaborates with the Deputy Public Information Director to establish and implement consistent countywide communications practices, policies, and procedures.
Evaluates communications programs, services, and initiatives to identify opportunities for improvement and implement strategies that enhance effectiveness and service delivery.
Ensures departmental programs and communications practices comply with applicable federal and state requirements, County ordinances, and established policies and procedures.
Reviews, edits, and proofreads communications materials and provides guidance to staff to ensure accuracy, quality, consistency, and a high level of service.
Monitors and analyzes media coverage, public outreach, internal communications, website and social media analytics, and other key performance indicators to measure effectiveness and recommend improvements.