Strategic Communications Consultant - Austin Communications & Engagement

City of Austin•Austin, TX

7d•$75,930 - $96,430•Hybrid

About The Position

The Strategic Communications Consultant provides strategic communications guidance, as well as public information outreach initiative coordination and implementation support resources to executive leadership, City department staff, Council offices, and program managers. This position also coordinates with the appropriate staff within and outside of Austin Communications & Engagement (ACE) to ensure consistency and quality of Citywide communication efforts. Purpose Under minimal supervision, this position serves as a leader in the Communications and Public Information Office to executive leadership, departmental public information staff, Council offices, and program managers regarding strategic communications planning and implementation for assigned projects and initiatives. The position coordinates with staff within and outside of the Communications and Public Information Office to ensure consistency and quality of City-wide communications efforts.

Requirements

Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with primary course work in Journalism, Marketing, Communications, Advertising or related field, plus six (6) years of related work experience.
Master’s Degree may substitute for two (2) years of work experience.
Knowledge of modern principles of strategic marketing communications, including the use of interactive, electronic, and social media tools.
Knowledge of the principles and best practices of media relations.
Knowledge of project management techniques and principles.
Skill in writing a wide variety of communications tactics such as press releases, memos, newsletters, op-eds, and talking points.
Skill in consulting with a variety of clients offering a wide range of individual programs and services.
Skill in negotiating shared solutions on project/program priorities and communications strategies.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Skill in using computers and related business and design applications.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Ability to prioritize and manage concurrent programs, activities and deadlines.
Ability to quickly evaluate situations and develop appropriate strategies for communications.
Ability to develop, foster, and maintain positive working relationships with the public, elected officials, and other employees.
Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidential information.
Ability to train others.
Ability to work in a dynamic environment, manage shifting deadlines, and multiple priority assignments effectively, and work non-traditional hours when needed.
Ability to organize work, set priorities, use time effectively, work independently and meet deadlines.
Ability to research, analyze, and present background information on a wide variety of assigned projects, programs and topics, relative to various issues in the City sphere.
Ability to respond well under pressure with strict time limits.
Candidates should have experience working independently in a fast-paced environment and be able to manage multiple, high-profile projects simultaneously.
Candidates should be skilled in quickly analyzing challenges, identifying potential solutions, providing professional recommendations for implementation, and designing culturally relevant communication initiatives that increase knowledge and engagement across diverse audiences.

Nice To Haves

Experience developing and implementing multi-platform communications and outreach campaigns that strengthen access to services and amplify public participation opportunities
Experience managing complex projects or initiatives that require collaboration with and providing guidance to multiple internal and external stakeholders
Experience developing executive communications
The ability to travel to more than one work location

Responsibilities

Develops and implements short- and long-term communications strategies, deliverables, and performance metrics.
Provides strategic communications guidance to internal customers. Provides consulting services to departmental communication staff, managers, executives, and stakeholders.
Consults with assigned departments and project and program representatives to develop effective and engaging communications projects and programs. Develops and leads the implementation of communications plans and strategies.
Develops project budgets and guidelines.
Provides leadership and guidance on imaging, branding, and marketing of events and activities.
Fosters relationships within the organization and external agencies.
Coordinates design, writing, and editing of print and electronic marketing materials. Serves as a liaison for the department to assigned departments and various external agencies, including City Council, private businesses, community partners, residents, vendors, and interest groups.
Develops, distributes and follows-up on press materials that support assigned activities. Assists in the planning, marketing, and execution of special events that support assigned activities.
Develops social and electronic media strategies that support communications initiatives. Conducts public education projects and presentations. Assures consistency and quality of communications materials and alignment with corporate guidelines and expectations.
Provides training, guidance, and technical assistance to CPIO’s divisions and departmental communications staff through various methods identifies needs and feedback.
Coordinates bid process and contract negotiation for services as required.
Assists in the development of appropriate procedures and policies governing communications activities.
May provide leadership and/or supervision to assigned employees or project management.