Media Relations Manager (StratAdvsr1,CSPI&P BU-P)

City of Seattle • Seattle, WA

18h • Hybrid

About The Position

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a dynamic Media Relations Manager to lead its media and communications efforts. This critical role involves planning, analysis, and coordination of SPU’s media relations and public information programs. The position serves as a key advisor to the executive team, offering guidance on media relations strategies, emergency response communications, and media outreach. Collaboration with the Mayor’s Office Communications team, other City departments, and surrounding jurisdictions is essential for coordinated communication. As the primary public information officer, this role manages SPU's public image, mitigates reputational risks, and promotes the utility's services and projects. The Media Relations Manager will supervise a Social Media Program Manager and partner with the Communications Director on strategic communications for large initiatives, providing leadership in social media, crisis communication, and content development. SPU is a community-centered utility focused on managing water and waste resources equitably for healthy people, environment, and economy, delivering services across water, solid waste, drainage, and wastewater. SPU is committed to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice, striving for inclusivity and equity in its workplace and recruiting practices.

Requirements

• Three (3) years of experience performing professional level duties in media relations, corporate communications, or public policy/legislative analyst related functions; or and equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelors degree in communications, journalism, political science, public administration, or closely related field.
• In lieu of a degree, five (5) years of experience performing professional level duties in media relations, corporate communications, or public policy/legislative analyst related functions; or and equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of or experience with social media content strategies
• Supervisory experience

Responsibilities

• Lead SPU’s media relations and crisis communications, including proactive outreach, media requests, and serving as primary public information officer.
• Coordinate messaging with the Mayor’s Office, City departments, and external partners to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Develop and oversee public information campaigns and materials that support City and utility priorities and shape public understanding.
• Lead, mentor, and train communications staff, including media training for leadership; foster a collaborative, high-performing team.
• Represent SPU in interagency forums and policy discussions, providing strategic recommendations that support City objectives.
• Supervise a Social Media Program Manager and develop an integrated program between media relations and social media.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free public transportation options
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities
• Vacation, holiday, and sick leave
• Medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents

What This Job Offers

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