DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Development Authority of the North Country•Watertown, NY

About The Position

The Director of Communications is responsible for managing a coordinated, strategic communications program that advances the Authority’s mission, programs, and public image across the three-county region. This role supports the Authority’s purpose as a public benefit corporation by fostering transparency, public trust, and meaningful engagement with stakeholders. The Director of Communications oversees media relations, issues management, internal communications, environmental and social responsibility messaging, government affairs coordination, and information dissemination. Serving as a strategic advisor to the Executive Director and leadership team, the Director of Communications ensures consistent, accurate, and effective communications that build strong partnerships, support community and economic development, and enhances the Authority’s reputation and impact.

Requirements

Proficiency with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel), database operations, and other relevant software to communications, marketing and information management.
Demonstrated ability to assess organizational communication needs, develop and recommend strategic approaches, and implement effective solutions that advance Authority’s mission and objectives.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail, accuracy, grammar, and clarity; ability to prepare and deliver effective presentations for diverse internal and external audiences.
Knowledgeable in the use of a wide range of communications, marketing and advertising platforms and media, including digital, print, and social media channels.
Familiarity with key organizations, media outlets, and influencers within the Authority’s service area and related industries, and the ability to cultivate productive professional relationships.
Strong organizational, time management, and prioritization skills, with the ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Strong judgement, critical thinking, and effective decision-making and problem-solving abilities, with flexibility to adapt priorities in response to Authority objectives, emerging issues, and business needs.
Knowledge of basic communication law, including copyright law.
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
A minimum of six (6) years of professional experience in marketing and communications, including strategic planning, content development, and stakeholder engagement.
A minimum of two (2) years of experience working with the media, including preparing press releases and responding to media inquiries.
A minimum of three (3) years of experience developing and implementing issues-based communication strategies.
Demonstrated ability to secure positive, broad-based media coverage across multiple platforms.
Proven experience managing crisis communications and providing strategic guidance during sensitive or high-impact situations.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary liaison between the Authority and external organizations to build, strengthen, and sustain partnerships and facilitate the effective exchange of information.
Monitor regional and state initiatives, activities and legislation that may impact the Authority’s mission, programs, or operations.
Serve as media contact and Authority spokesperson (when appropriate), and coordinate with internal subject matter experts to support media engagements.
Represent the Authority at external meetings, events and community activities that support and advance the Authority’s strategic and business objectives.
Develop and implement external communications strategies to inform partners, customers and the general public about the Authority’s programs, services, initiatives, and accomplishments through digital, print, and social media channels. This includes developing communication strategies for the Authority, North Country Recycles and Next Move New York.
Actively update the content of the Authority’s website, intranet and social media sites. Also, ensure the content of North Country Recycles and Next Move New York websites are updated and provide messaging that is consistent with the strategic messaging of each initiative.
Write, edit and oversee the distribution of Authority publications and communications materials, including reports, fact sheets, press releases, newsletters, and visual content.
Design and produce promotional materials such as flyers, newsletters, advertisements, and other educational material for a variety of mediums, including social media, radio, television and print.
Manage photographic content of Authority events, employee activities, and external engagements involving Authority employees; maintain organized photo archives.
Assist the Executive Director in preparing materials and communications for Authority Board of Directors meetings.
Develop and maintain internal communication strategies and tools to keep employees informed, engaged and aligned; to include maintaining the Authority’s intranet.
Coordinate and respond to Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests and other public information inquires in accordance with applicable requirements.
Perform related duties to support the overall operations and objective of the Authority.

Benefits

NYS Employees’ Retirement System
NYS Deferred Compensation
12-paid holidays
3-weeks’ vacation
10-sick days
2-personal holidays
an employer funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for medical and prescriptions benefits
dental
vision and short-term disability insurance
professional development and tuition reimbursement