Deputy Assistant Director (Executive Level)

City of Houston•Houston, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Houston Health Department seeks an experienced, strategic communications leader to provide high-level direction for departmental communications. The role supports transparent, effective public messaging, responsible stewardship of information, and alignment with organizational priorities. It shapes communication strategy, enhances public engagement, and builds trust in the department’s public health programs and services. The position oversees media relations, digital communications, public information, internal messaging, content development, brand management, and crisis response to ensure consistent, accurate, and timely communication with internal and external audiences. It represents the department at press events, public meetings, civic and council sessions, and community engagements, and serves as the department’s primary public information officer. The role provides leadership and supervision to communications and public engagement staff, advises senior leadership on crisis communications, and builds relationships with community leaders, government officials, and media. This position is physically comfortable, with discretion about walking and standing, and has no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment. The work location is 8000 N. Stadium, and the stated work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field is required. Seven years of administrative experience are required, including at least three years in a managerial capacity. A master’s degree may substitute for two years of experience. No license is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
Seven years of administrative experience, including at least three years in a managerial capacity.
A master’s degree may be substituted for two years of experience.
No license required.

Nice To Haves

Expertise in media relations, digital strategy, crisis communications, public information, and brand management.
Strong leadership and team management experience in communications or public engagement settings.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to craft clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and respond swiftly during emergencies or high-visibility events.
Eligible veteran applicants may receive preference when they meet the stated qualifications and other applicable conditions.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage communications functions, including media relations, digital strategy, written communications, content development, and crisis response.
Represent the Houston Health Department at press events, public meetings, civic and council sessions, and community engagements.
Serve as the department’s primary public information officer, relaying information, promoting publicity, and fielding questions about public and media activities.
Manage daily public information operations, including overseeing staff responsible for research, statistical and historical data compilation, and response coordination.
Prepare and oversee the prompt and accurate distribution of media responses, interview materials, public inquiry responses, and City Council requests.
Develop and implement strategic communication plans and narrative frameworks supporting long-term departmental and City initiatives.
Oversee departmental brand management to ensure a consistent visual and narrative identity across public-facing materials.
Direct internal communications so staff receive clear, timely, and accurate information about policies, programs, and organizational priorities.
Provide leadership, supervision, and strategic direction to communications and public engagement staff.
Coordinate crisis and emergency communications, advise senior leadership, and ensure rapid, accurate dissemination of critical information.
Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, government officials, and local, regional, and national media.
Monitor public feedback, media reporting, and emerging issues to inform communications decisions and enhance community engagement.
Promote departmental activities through appropriate media channels and ensure messaging reflects departmental values and priorities.
Handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion and sound judgment.
Ensure communication practices comply with City policies, legal requirements, and industry standards.
Maintain trusted relationships with media outlets to support accurate coverage of City and departmental programs and initiatives.