Director

Harris County Department of Education•Houston, TX

11d

About The Position

Primary Purpose: To support the goals of HCDE and its programs and services by managing multifaceted communications functions within HCDE and with the community; managing media relations between HCDE and all media outlets (local, national, international, etc.); strategically planning communications efforts, with outcomes in mind, to support awareness and understanding of HCDE, its divisions and the services provided to Harris County school districts; all other duties related to managing official communications on behalf of Harris County Department of Education. Qualifications: Education/Certification Bachelor's degree from an accredited university Special Knowledge/Skills: Demonstrated ability to strategically plan, implement, and manage multi-faceted communications programs to support institution, division and/or program goals Knowledge of varied communications platforms, strategies and methods for delivery of messaging Record of success in planning and organizing resources and establishing priorities Working knowledge of public-school activities and operations Ability to analyze and interpret intellectual information and develop accurate and descriptive abstracts and summaries Exemplary oral and written communication skills Proven ability to manage a team of professionals in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with high expectations and a focus on outcomes Outstanding customer service mindset Experience: Five years of experience in school public relations, communications, or media relations Experience in educational, public sector or private nonprofit organizations strongly preferred Performance Responsibilities: Develop data-driven systems and procedures to support organization’s communications activities, including external and internal communications. Plan and conduct communications programs, media relations, and events designed to create and maintain a favorable image of HCDE and to keep the public and HCDE employees informed of HCDE programs, accomplishments, and activities. Supervise the preparation and distribution of regular and special purpose publications and non-print productions designed to familiarize audiences with HCDE (i.e., Board reports, Annual Report, newsletters, brochures, fliers, directory, calendar, web page, etc.). Manage messaging through varied communications channels including HCDE website, social media, email campaigns and publications/collateral materials. Serve as the spokesperson for the Department when necessary; manage media relations including crisis communications and reputation management when necessary. Ensure alignment of print and digital campaigns with the Department’s strategic vision. Develop and implement data-driven communications and engagement strategies using two-way communications channels. Attend all Board meetings. Administer division budget and ensure projects are cost-effective and funds are managed prudently. Collaborate with Client Engagement director and other staff/division managers to support marketing efforts through narrative storytelling Successfully execute all Communications and Creative Services campaigns on behalf of the Department. Manage electronic communications between HCDE and area school districts for general information and awareness purposes (including but not limited to the 25 Harris County school districts).Work with Multi-media Manager to support effective content generation and updates to HCDE website Supervise division staff and ensure deliverables are high-quality and on-time, coordinating project priorities with Client Engagement Director and Chief Communications Officer. Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical and responsible. Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
Demonstrated ability to strategically plan, implement, and manage multi-faceted communications programs to support institution, division and/or program goals
Knowledge of varied communications platforms, strategies and methods for delivery of messaging
Record of success in planning and organizing resources and establishing priorities
Working knowledge of public-school activities and operations
Ability to analyze and interpret intellectual information and develop accurate and descriptive abstracts and summaries
Exemplary oral and written communication skills
Proven ability to manage a team of professionals in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with high expectations and a focus on outcomes
Outstanding customer service mindset
Five years of experience in school public relations, communications, or media relations

Nice To Haves

Experience in educational, public sector or private nonprofit organizations strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Develop data-driven systems and procedures to support organization’s communications activities, including external and internal communications.
Plan and conduct communications programs, media relations, and events designed to create and maintain a favorable image of HCDE and to keep the public and HCDE employees informed of HCDE programs, accomplishments, and activities.
Supervise the preparation and distribution of regular and special purpose publications and non-print productions designed to familiarize audiences with HCDE (i.e., Board reports, Annual Report, newsletters, brochures, fliers, directory, calendar, web page, etc.).
Manage messaging through varied communications channels including HCDE website, social media, email campaigns and publications/collateral materials.
Serve as the spokesperson for the Department when necessary; manage media relations including crisis communications and reputation management when necessary.
Ensure alignment of print and digital campaigns with the Department’s strategic vision.
Develop and implement data-driven communications and engagement strategies using two-way communications channels.
Attend all Board meetings.
Administer division budget and ensure projects are cost-effective and funds are managed prudently.
Collaborate with Client Engagement director and other staff/division managers to support marketing efforts through narrative storytelling
Successfully execute all Communications and Creative Services campaigns on behalf of the Department.
Manage electronic communications between HCDE and area school districts for general information and awareness purposes (including but not limited to the 25 Harris County school districts).
Work with Multi-media Manager to support effective content generation and updates to HCDE website
Supervise division staff and ensure deliverables are high-quality and on-time, coordinating project priorities with Client Engagement Director and Chief Communications Officer.
Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical and responsible.
Perform other responsibilities as assigned.