JOB SUMMARY

The Public Information Officer (PIO) serves as the official spokesperson for the City of Buda and as the primary point of contact between the City and media outlets. This role is responsible for creating and disseminating information about City policies, programs, and initiatives, and promoting positive relationships between the City and its residents, including information related to special events, current events, construction and development projects, and other newsworthy items. The PIO works with subject matter experts throughout the organization on media interview coordination, coordinates interviews and talking points with the City Manager and Mayor and City Council Members, and builds and maintains relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. Responsible for crisis communications, the PIO works closely with Public Safety, Emergency Management, and other key stakeholders. The PIO reports to the Director of Community Relations and Destination Services.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

· Serve as the primary spokesperson for the city government, responding to media inquiries, interviews, and public speaking engagements.

· Write and edit press releases, speeches, and newsletters. Work closely with department staff on creating website content, social media posts, and other communication materials.

· Coordinate with department heads and city officials to gather information, provide guidance on communication best practices, and ensure messaging consistency.

· Provide on-camera and media training to staff, including subject matter experts.

· Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, state, and national media and keep updated list of all media contacts, including print, television, and radio.

· Coordinate all media inquiries and interviews with appropriate staff, elected or appointed officials, and/or partner agencies, including conducting research, creating talking points, and strategizing on messaging.

· Monitor media coverage and public sentiment related to the city, and proactively address any issues or concerns as they arise.

· Stay informed about local, state, and national issues affecting the city and identify opportunities to promote the city's interests or address public concerns.

· Organize press conferences, community events, and public forums to facilitate dialogue and engagement between city officials and residents.

· Develop and implement strategies for soliciting public input and comments.

· Manage crisis communication efforts, including developing emergency communication plans and providing timely updates during critical incidents or disasters.

· Cultivate relationships with local, regional, state, and national media outlets, community organizations, and stakeholders to enhance the city's visibility and reputation.

· Utilize analytics and feedback mechanisms to evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and adjust approaches as needed.

· Exercises considerable initiative, independent judgment, and confidentiality.

· Exhibits regular, reliable and punctual attendance, which is an essential function of the job.

· Support the Department of Community Relations and Destinations Services staff leading up to and during special events.

· Performs other related job duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field; and at least (3) years of work experience in communication, journalism, or public relations. Any combination of experience and education may be considered. Experience in crisis communications preferred.

Special Qualifications:

· Previous experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably in a government or municipal setting.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

· Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues, elected officials, community leaders, and members of the media.

· Demonstrated proficiency in drafting press releases, speeches, articles, and other communication materials for various platforms.

· Experience managing social media accounts, website content, and other digital communication channels.

· Knowledge of media relations practices, including how to cultivate relationships with reporters, pitch stories, and respond to media inquiries.

· Ability to work under pressure, prioritize competing demands, and maintain composure during crisis situations.

· Familiarity with public records laws, ethical standards for public communication, and best practices for maintaining transparency and accountability.

· Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and irregular hours as needed to respond to media inquiries or participate in community events.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of journalistic standards for oral and written communication.
• Knowledge of new and emerging trends in communication media and technology.
• Knowledge of municipal government policies and ordinances.
• Knowledge of theory of public communication, persuasion, rhetoric, and the mass media.
• Knowledge and thorough understanding of the Pubic Information Act, its application and, compliance requirements
• Skill in the use small office equipment, including copy machines or multi-line telephone systems.
• Skill in using computers for data entry.
• Skill in using computers for word processing and/or accounting purposes.
• Skill in communicating effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Skill in use of computer and graphic design programs for producing high quality publications.
• Skill in delivering public presentations.
• Skill in working effectively and efficiently without direct supervision.
• Skill in reading and comprehending city policies, budgets, goals, and programs.
• Skill in reading and understanding a wide variety of media sources, professional development materials, and communication and media theory.
• Skill in writing and editing news releases, newsletters, scripts, reports, advertisements, letters to the editor, and other forms of written communication; applies appropriate style guidelines.
• Skill in understanding and explaining complex situations involving all City departments and functions.
• Ability to organize and communicate effectively.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work is light and includes exerting up to 20 pounds occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects and the following physical abilities: fingering, hearing, mental acuity, speaking, standing, talking, visual acuity, and walking.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is typically performed in a safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands. Must have flexible schedule after work hours and on weekends for any media relations needs.