Manager, Communications

Trinity River Authority of Texas•Arlington, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Communications Manager is responsible for developing and managing integrated communications programs directed toward multiple stakeholder audiences, including customers, board members, employees, industry thought leaders, state and local leaders, and local and national media. The purpose of this position is to ensure that all formal internal and external communications are accurate, timely, and effectively integrated with TRA’s overall messaging strategy. Additionally, the Communications Manager is expected to serve as the “voice” of the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in journalism, strategic communication, marketing, English, or a related field.
Minimum five to seven years of progressive public relations or corporate communications experience.
Experience with public utilities, public infrastructure, environmental services, governmental organizations, or highly regulated industries.
Successful record of working with executive management, boards and commissions, citizens, and community groups.
Proficient in all basic Microsoft applications, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Proficient in the Adobe Creative Suite.
Proven track record of developing and executing corporate communications plans and messaging strategies.
Strong writing (copy, press releases) and media relations skills (trade press, local and national media).
Excellent project planning and management skills with an ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and deadlines while maintaining the quality of work.
Strong relationship-building and communication skills.
Understanding of social media channel activation and community management.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
In-depth understanding of journalistic/AP style.
Web development skills for maintaining the website through planning, designing, writing, editing, updating, and ensuring the information on the website is current and accurate.
Strong PowerPoint skills.
Strong leadership skills.
Some technical/scientific aptitude is required to describe complex processes.
Strong presentation skills.
Ability to work well with a wide variety of cross-functional areas, including engineering, environmental science, and finance.
Intellectual curiosity, creativity, a collaborative spirit, and a knack for written storytelling will drive success in this position.
Ability to take photographs.
Valid Texas driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Professional certifications in the areas of communications or public relations are a plus.
APR Accreditation is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive strategic communications program that supports the Authority’s mission, organizational strategy, and key messaging objectives. Establish and manage centralized internal and external communications processes to effectively communicate the Authority’s vision, priorities, programs, projects, and initiatives to employees, customers, Board members, industry partners, elected officials, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Develop, maintain, and coordinate crisis communications, emergency public information, and issues management programs. Monitor emerging issues, misinformation, public sentiment, and stakeholder concerns related to Authority operations and initiatives, and develop proactive communication strategies and response plans in coordination with operational staff, executive leadership, regulatory agencies, and emergency management partners.
Develop and oversee digital communications, social media, website, and emerging technology strategies. Monitor audience engagement and public sentiment; evaluate and implement communications technologies and tools; and ensure all digital platforms remain accurate, current, accessible, and consistent with organizational messaging, branding, and governance standards.
Manage media relations activities, including serving as a primary organizational spokesperson when appropriate, coordinating responses to media inquiries, developing media materials, monitoring media coverage, preparing media analysis reports, and coaching Authority representatives in preparation for interviews and public appearances.
Develop, manage, and maintain stakeholder engagement and public outreach programs that promote transparency, build public trust, and enhance public understanding of Authority operations, capital projects, regulatory responsibilities, water conservation initiatives, sustainability practices, and long-term strategic priorities.
Assist the Manager of Governmental Relations by developing and implementing communications strategies that support legislative, regulatory, intergovernmental, and stakeholder engagement initiatives and strengthen relationships with governmental entities, industry organizations, and community partners.
Develop and administer processes for receiving, tracking, coordinating, and responding to public inquiries, complaints, comments, and requests for information. Analyze trends and recurring issues and provide recommendations to management regarding stakeholder concerns, communication opportunities, and organizational responsiveness.
Direct the development, design, production, and distribution of Authority publications, newsletters, presentations, reports, electronic media, graphic content, and other communication materials. Assist with executive communications, including speeches, presentations, scripts, Board and Committee meeting materials, advisory committee communications, and other executive messaging assignments.
Represent the Authority through public presentations, briefings, community outreach activities, industry events, and stakeholder meetings. Assist with the planning, coordination, and logistical support of Board meetings, Committee meetings, special events, and other public-facing activities as assigned.
Manage assigned personnel and resources, including hiring, training, coaching, performance management, work planning, procedure development, budget administration, and the continuous improvement of communications programs and services.