Communications Division Director

Harris County•Houston, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Communications Division Director is responsible for leading all communications-based strategies and programs for the Flood Control District, in support of its overall mission. This includes oversight of media relations, public outreach, internal and external communications, digital platforms, and crisis communication. The Director manages internal and contract staff and provides strategic counsel to executive leadership, with an emphasis on transparency, public trust, inclusion, and measurable impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or related field
Experience managing teams executing high-profile, fast-paced projects.
Valid Class "C" Texas Driver’s License
Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
Strong understanding of Associated Press (AP) style.
Knowledge of governmental and public agency communication structures.
Familiarity with crisis communication protocols and emergency operations.
Knowledge of digital platforms, content strategy, and social media best practices.
Skilled in presentation development, public speaking, and messaging under pressure.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and communication management platforms (e.g., CMS, email marketing, social scheduling, project management).
Ability to analyze data, evaluate communication impact, and adapt strategy accordingly.
Lead a high-performing team and manage change with clarity and confidence.
Exercise strong judgment under pressure, especially during emergencies or high-stakes events.
Build positive relationships with a broad range of stakeholders.
Manage multiple projects with competing deadlines while maintaining high-quality output.
Maintain professionalism in high-visibility or high-scrutiny scenarios.
Read/comprehend written materials including procedures, instructions, and policies.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
Experience serving as an on-the-record spokesperson
Spanish-speaking proficiency

Responsibilities

Provide strategic oversight of all communications related to the District, including project communications and capital project delivery updates, media relations, social media, digital platforms, internal communications, public affairs/outreach, brand/reputation management, and stakeholder engagement.
Develop and direct the implementation of an annual strategic communications plan that supports the District’s mission and objectives, with data-informed goals and measurable performance indicators.
Ensure all communication strategies reflect the District’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and language equity.
Provide strategic counsel to the Executive Director and other members of executive leadership, and conduct regular executive briefings on updates, challenges, results, and public sentiment.
Support communication around legislative initiatives, policy updates, and government relations as needed.
Direct internal communications efforts, including executive messaging, town halls, organizational updates, and change management communications.
Hold team members accountable through regular meetings, status updates, and performance reviews.
Establish and promote continuing education and training for staff, ensuring knowledge of best practices, DEI, crisis readiness, and emerging technologies.
Oversee personnel compliance with District policies and procedures.
Lead and direct the District’s proactive and reactive media relations efforts to maximize positive press and public awareness of projects, initiatives, and benefits.
Serve as a spokesperson for the District as needed, including media interviews and high-profile events.
Lead social media strategy, development, monitoring, and analysis across platforms.
Oversee content creation and graphic design, ensuring consistency in tone, branding, and visual identity across all channels.
Monitor and respond to public sentiment and media coverage, adjusting strategies as needed.
Manage and enhance the District’s reputation through thoughtful messaging and proactive engagement.
Serve as the District’s communications lead during emergency events, including incident command or emergency operations center activations.
Develop and maintain crisis communication protocols and public engagement strategies before, during, and after emergencies.
Ensure communications are timely, accessible, and available across multiple platforms and in multiple languages.
Design and implement community outreach and stakeholder engagement strategies to promote education, trust, and transparency.
Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, local organizations, advocacy groups, and elected officials.
Lead presentations and participate in public meetings, including project updates and community forums.
Prepare and manage the annual communications budget and ensure responsible use of resources.
Identify and implement communications tools, software, and platforms to enhance workflow, media monitoring, public engagement, and reporting.
Serve as point of contact for external consultants and oversee their performance and deliverables.
Attend meetings with internal departments, public officials, partner agencies, and vendors.
Present at conferences, workshops, and relevant training programs.
Provide media training to internal staff and executives.
Assume additional responsibilities as required, adapting to the evolving demands, responsibilities, needs, and objectives of the District.