Public Information Officer

Target Hiring Range: $87,475 to $97,194

The Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for managing and coordinating internal and external communications operations on behalf of the City of Farmers Branch. This role involves developing and implementing communication strategies to ensure the accurate and effective dissemination of information to the public, media, and other stakeholders. The PIO serves as the primary spokesperson, oversees media relations, creates and disseminates public information and communications, and ensures that the City’s messaging is consistent and aligned with its goals across all platforms.Essential Job Functions represents 20%-50% of working time on a regular basis, subject to the varying demand of specific functions. All functions listed below are considered essential and are expected to be completed regularly and efficiently by any incumbent. Regular, punctual and on-site attendance is essential for all functions listed below:
 
Part of the essential function of this position is the ability to work within an office and field environment, and to be available to work a flexible schedule with limited notice for availability, to include evenings, weekends and holidays.
 

1. Responsible for external public communications, programs and initiatives, to include but not limited to:
   • Draft, review, and edit statements, speeches, and other communications for senior management and organizational leaders.
   • Manage and update the City’s online presence through the website, social media platforms, and the City’s e-news services.
   • Serve as the lead writer and chief editor of the City’s print newsletter.
   • Oversee video production of City Council and other Board and Commission meetings.
   • Manage public speaking engagements for associated City staff and events.
   • Prepare presentations for dissemination to the public, ensuring clear, accurate, and impactful communication of organizational messages.
   • Ensure all public communications are accurate, timely, and aligned with the City’s messaging and branding.
   • Must be available for on-call media press releases, on-camera interviews and other irregular or other requests that occur outside the normal working hours of the day.
2. Responsible for planning strategic communication initiatives and operating procedures related to crisis communication, community relations and media relations, to include but not limited to:
   • Develop and implement crisis communication strategies; act as the spokesperson during emergency situations or crises; and provide accurate and timely information to the public and media during crises.
   • Plan and coordinate outreach programs and events; foster positive relationships with community groups and stakeholders; and represent the organization at public events, meetings, and forums.
   • Develop and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets; serve as the primary contact for all media inquiries and serve as the City’s spokesperson; coordinate press conferences, briefings, and interviews; prepare and distribute press releases and other materials; and consult with other departments.
3. Responsible for internal communication strategies, programs and initiatives, to include but not limited to:
   • Chair the City’s Internal Communications Committee.
   • Coordinate internal communication efforts to ensure employees are informed about organizational developments and initiatives.
   • Produce internal newsletters, bulletins and other communication materials.
4. Effectively manages, develops, and motivates assigned Communication and Marketing staff, including, but not limited to:
   • The effective recruitment, selection, onboarding, and retention of associated staff.
   • Continual performance management of staff through evaluations, coaching, development and other opportunities that promote growth, learning and engagement.
   • Demonstrates effective and professional leadership through active engagement, involvement, and equitable treatment of all staff members.
   • Consistently and effectively models the behavioral, performance and service-level expectations of the Communications team.

Other Job Functions 
Other Job Functions are essential but represent less than 20% of working time on a regular basis. These are performed with less regularity but are considered essential. All functions listed below are considered essential and are expected to be completed expediently and efficiently by any incumbent.

1. Administers functions related to the successful analysis and management of communications strategies and procedures, to include but not limited to:
   • Monitoring and Analysis: Monitor media coverage and public perception of the City; analyze communication efforts and media coverage to evaluate effectiveness; and provide regular reports and updates to senior management. Responsible for the City’s Communication plan and research to stay on top of City-related news and emerging trends in communication
   • Contract Management: Coordinate contract video production and video programming of the City's cable channel and online platforms; build professional service agreements that clearly define performance and expectations with agencies such as video production, social media contractors, and others; and ensure contract deliverables are met, and the contract performs as expected. 
   • Budgeting: Develop and monitor assigned budgets to ensure the success of the City’s fiscal objectives; assist the director with budget preparation.
   • Completes and/or assists with special projects or functions as assigned, within the scope of essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, marketing, or another related field. 
• Certified Public Communicator certification preferred.
• Five years of successful experience in the news media, communications, marketing, public information, or related field. Experience in a government communications operations is preferred. 
• An equivalent combination of experience, education and certification may be considered.
• A valid, Class C Texas Driver License.
• Must successfully complete a comprehensive background check and drug/alcohol testing.

• Strong knowledge of public relations strategies, tactics, and best practices for maintaining and enhancing the City’s public image.
• Expertise in managing communications during crises, including developing crisis communication plans and responding effectively under pressure.
• Proficiency in creating, editing, and reviewing a variety of content formats, such as press releases, speeches, social media posts, and newsletters.
• Knowledge of social media platforms, trends, and strategies for engaging with the public and managing an organization’s online presence.
• Understanding of the legal and ethical considerations related to public information, including confidentiality, privacy, and compliance with communication laws and regulations.
• Familiarity with branding principles and how to maintain consistent messaging across all communication platforms.
• In-depth understanding of media operations, including how to effectively interact with journalists, editors, and broadcasters.
• Advanced skill in interpersonal communication and conflict resolution.
• Skill in the de-escalation of sensitive or aggressive customer/vendor/citizen issues.
• Skill in analyzing data, identifying trends and creating actionable data strategies.
• Strong project management skills and experience with project management methodologies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to simultaneously coordinate multiple tasks and priorities and support multiple individuals, teams, and work groups.
• Ability to establish and maintain project schedules and balance responsibilities for multiple projects.
• Ability to continually demonstrate practical knowledge, analytical judgements and informed decision-making.
• Ability to provide technical, practical or functional knowledge related to job functions.
• Ability to effectively inform, educate, persuade or influence others related to job functions and necessary outcomes.
• Ability to communicate effectively on technical, interpersonal and professional levels to diverse audiences, communities and interest groups.
• Act in accordance with servant leadership principles. Be there to serve employees and coworkers.
• Serve with humility in all interactions. Be a leader but know when to follow, ask questions when you don’t know something, be open to learning from anyone, and admit when you don’t know something or are wrong. Give credit to your team.

Salary : $74,688 - $119,623