DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS - 22010439

State of Florida • Sarasota, FL

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Community Relations serves as the circuit’s Public Information Officer (PIO) and is responsible for the development, implementation, and oversight of strategic communications, media relations, and public outreach initiatives for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. This position functions as the primary liaison between the judiciary and the public, providing communication counsel to court staff, managing public information dissemination, and ensuring transparency and consistency in messaging. The role requires independent judgment coordination across departments to support organizational priorities and maintain public trust.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, legal studies, public or business administration, or a closely related field.
• At least five years of related work experience.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the official spokesperson and primary media contact for the circuit, including emergency communications. Maintains contact with the media by issuing press releases, statements, and advisories. Responds to media inquiries and public information requests in compliance with Florida Rules of Court and local Administrative Orders, including review and redaction of confidential information. Coordinates communications efforts across departments to ensure consistency and alignment with organizational policies. Maintains ongoing relationships with media, government entities, and community partners.
• Develops informational materials including newsletters and brochures. Writes, edits, and reviews publications, reports, speeches, web-based materials, and official correspondence for judges and court leadership. Ensures consistency, clarity, and adherence to court standards across all communication materials. Coordinates photography, videography, and archival documentation of court events and initiatives, including portraits and other similar events on behalf of judges and the court for historic recording.
• Oversees and maintains the court’s website and social media platforms to ensure accurate, accessible, and timely information. Develops and publishes digital content to inform and educate the public regarding court operations and services. Monitors digital communication trends and implements best practices to enhance public engagement. Coordinates with IT and internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with accessibility and content.
• Plans, coordinates, and promotes civic education and outreach initiatives, including courthouse tours, community presentations, and public events. Represents the court at community, Bar Association, and professional meetings and events. Oversees volunteer-based programs including the circuit’s Pet Therapy Program and School Tour Program. Attends court events and programs for print and video coverage, including taking photographs, videotaping, reporting and interviewing of key participants. Develop partnerships with community organizations to enhance the public understanding of the judicial system.
• Develops and implements comprehensive communication strategies aligned with the priorities of the circuit. Provides high-level communication counsel to judges and court personnel on sensitive, complex, or high-profile matters. Develops short and long range communication plans and evaluates the effectiveness of messaging initiatives.
• Performs clerical and administrative functions for court administration as needed, including answering the phones, assisting court visitors, litigants, attorneys, etc., dispensing internal information related to building facilities and security as needed in the absence of employees who normally perform these functions. Attends professional meetings, training, and conferences to maintain current knowledge of communication practices.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director