Public Information Director

City of Apopka•Apopka, FL

4d•$144,126 - $206,847•Onsite

About The Position

Under broad administrative direction, the purpose of the position is to serve as communications liaison between the City of Apopka Government and the public. Directs the Public Information Department to ensure accurate, timely, and effective official communications are published, posted, and/or distributed throughout the Apopka community. Acts as the primary media liaison for all City communications. Activities may include special events, public forums, press conferences, groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, dedications, community cleanup projects, and other ceremonies, responsible for the dissemination of information and recommended communication strategies. This position works under the general direction of the City Administrator.

Requirements

Knowledge of journalism, communications and marketing principles and practices, and the techniques of researching, composing, and editing publicity material.
Knowledge of current communications channels, including traditional and modern media, including social media, and a working knowledge of the technology supporting them.
Knowledge of municipal operations and organizational structure.
Knowledge of the principles and practices involved in media relations, community outreach, marketing, graphic design, public relations, and emergency/crisis communications.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of web site development and design.
Skilled in designing, writing, editing and overseeing production of publications, videos, social media posts, newsletters, and other communication media.
Skilled in researching, preparing, and delivering public presentations.
Skilled in researching and writing press releases, scripts, announcements, speeches and other forms of communication.
Ability to lead, supervise, and develop a team of employees.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with proficiency in AP Style writing.
Ability to read a variety of materials relevant to government, legal, and City administration operations that range from moderate to complex levels.
Ability to deal with people from a variety of departments and the public in both giving and receiving instructions. Must consistently demonstrate an ability to perform under stress.
Ability to develop and administer a budget.
Ability to operate a variety of telecommunication/technology devices and software related to communications, content creation, and public relations.
Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with citizens, City leadership, businesses, organizations, and local media outlets.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, Public Administration, Journalism, Communications, Mass Communications, Marketing, or related field.
Five (5) years of related experience in the field of communication, marketing, advertisement, etc.
Valid Florida Driver's license. A valid out of state License is acceptable, but selected candidates must obtain and provide a valid Florida driver's license within thirty (30) days of start date.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered, provided that the education and experience are in a relevant and related field.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in communications, marketing, or closely related field.

Responsibilities

Serves as the official City of Apopka spokesperson to media and represents the city at various functions and meetings, as assigned.
Responds to citizens, community groups, department staff, and media requests for information, including the preparation of press releases, press conferences/briefings, social media posts/alerts, etc.
Disseminates information and recommend appropriate communication strategies during emergency events and actively contributes as a team member of the City's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during any and all crisis, natural or otherwise.
Directs and leads the City's communications team, develops and implements department policies procedures, and develops and manages the department budget.
Directs a team of communications and marketing staff to maintain all City communication channels and brand standards.
Establishes and maintains the City's standards for public information, publications, communication, marketing, and branding.
Coordinate with departmental staff and personnel regarding media queries and strategies.
Publicize and promote a variety of City programs using a variety of media such as news releases, social media, newsletters and brochures, speech writing, consumer publications, radio and television presentations, news conferences, and slide shows.
Provides media training and coaching to departments when faced with media opportunities or challenges.
Develops, implements, and administers marketing and outreach plans for community engagement, including social marketing campaigns and incentives, training and education, and multi-media promotional materials for both the city and the CRA.
Performs related duties as directed.