Communications Director

Are you an experienced and strategic communications leader with a passion for public service? Pinellas County is seeking a dynamic Communications Director to lead an award-winning communications team and drive innovative, outcome-driven engagement with our residents, media and stakeholders.

About The Community

Nestled in Florida’s Gulf Coast, Pinellas County is a vibrant coastal gem, encompassing 24 unique municipalities, including St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Renowned for its stunning beaches, thriving arts scene, and year-round sunny weather, Pinellas County offers an exceptional quality of life. With a population of nearly 973,000, the county is a dynamic blend of scenic beauty and urban sophistication. The county’s economic vitality is underscored by its bustling cities, diverse cultural offerings, and robust tourism industry, which draws 6.5 million overnight visitors annually. Pinellas County is more than just a picturesque destination, it’s a community where innovation and tradition intersect.

About The Organization

Pinellas County provides services countywide and is the full-service provider for nearly 300,000 unincorporated residents, in addition to offering many contracted services to area municipalities. The County Administrator oversees nearly 2,200 of the organization’s 5,800 employees across 19 departments, ensuring efficient and fiscally responsible services for residents and visitors. Pinellas County Communications is a recognized leader in local government communications, earning accolades at the local, state, and national levels for its strategic, high-quality, and inclusive approach. Our team of expert communicators, graphic designers, and video/broadcast professionals delivers timely and transparent messaging, ensuring our residents stay informed and engaged.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Provide senior communications strategy to County Administration and serve on the County’s Executive Leadership Team.
• Emergency Response: Oversee the emergency communications function (ESF-14) during Emergency Operations Center activations and crisis situations, coordinating a network of over 70 public information officers and local stakeholders, working 12-hour shifts when required.
• Media & Public Relations: Direct daily public information operations and media relations, oversee media relations training programs, and manage regional, national, and international media interactions on the field.
• Brand & Messaging Oversight: Administer the County’s brand, image and voice across all platforms and communication products.
• Community Engagement: Lead the Public Participation and Community Outreach Programs, setting and observing standards for public participation across all county departments and ensuring residents of diverse backgrounds are intentionally included in county conversations and service delivery.
• Digital & Customer Service Management: Supervise the County’s nationally recognized website, phone lines, LiveChat, audiovisual communications, and public records request triage.
• Stakeholder & Government Relations: Coordinate with 24 municipalities, first response agencies, and constitutional offices to ensure unified messaging and collaboration.
• Public Information Network: Oversee the county’s Regional Public Information Network and coordination among local and regional public information officers.
• Project & Content Development: Direct the creation of high-quality content, including graphics, videos and public service announcements.
  
  

What We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate will be a proven leader in government or corporate communications, with demonstrated expertise in:

• Senior-level strategic, outcome-driven communications and relationship management
• Crisis communications and media management
• Public engagement and stakeholder coordination
• Project development and execution, with a strong portfolio of strategic communication plans
• Managing a diverse team and multiple communication channels
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC), or Public Relations Society of America Fellow (PRSA-Fellow) highly preferred.
• Experience leading communications during emergencies or crisis response scenarios.
  
  

Why Join Us?

Pinellas County offers a unique opportunity to serve a vibrant and engaged community while leading an award-winning team dedicated to excellence in communication. If you are ready to make a meaningful impact through strategic storytelling, media relations and community engagement, we encourage you to apply.

How To Apply

Submit your resume, cover letter, and 1-2 portfolio examples of a strategic communications plan. Join us in shaping the future of Pinellas County communications!