Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications

Job Description

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION : Under direction of the superintendent's chief of staff, the deputy chief of staff for communications (deputy chief) oversees activities and strategies implemented in the Division of Communications and the Department of Editorial, Graphics and Publishing Services; provides strategic advice and counsel to the superintendent and fellow cabinet members; supports the superintendent's communications to the Board; develops the district's overall communications plan and ensures alignment with the superintendent and Board's broader strategic plan. The deputy chief ensures that MCPS remains connected to its diverse community by providing timely, accurate, and accessible information that supports student success. The deputy chief coordinates a wide range of communication tools and resources, and the division delivers essential updates, produces engaging content, and maintains user-friendly websites to serve students, families, staff, and the broader community. Maintains the Division's commitment to delivering clear, culturally responsive, and impactful communication strengthens the bond between the school district and its stakeholders while enhancing transparency and trust.

CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS : None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES : Knowledge of and ability to implement best practices in public relations, marketing, communications, community relations and public affairs. Knowledge of federal, state and local regulatory requirements applicable to Montgomery County Public Schools' (MCPS) communications and community outreach programs. Knowledge of and ability to advise the MCPS leadership on applicable laws related to freedom of the press and free access to public information. Must understand and be able to address matters of diversity, sensitivity, and competence with regard to issues of race, learning or other ability, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender, socio-economic group, sexuality or other orientations or cultural markers. Strong skills related to budget development, oversight, administration, and emerging technologies. Ability to establish strong partnerships across organizations and develop compelling messages for different constituencies including parent, staff and community members. Knowledge of effective communications strategies in response to a crisis. Ability to work with stakeholders including families, governmental agencies, non-governmental partners, and the business community. Ability to lead issue-based communications and / or policy advocacy through messaging, positioning, media and communications strategy, journalism, branding and constituent engagement. Ability to create and disseminate a cohesive message across media, community relations, and intergovernmental affairs functions of the organization. Ability to effectively work with administrators, central office staff, school staff, families, local, state and national colleagues, to implement and monitor the overall communications plan and related projects. Excellent planning, organization, management, communications (oral and written) and human relations skills. Ability to plan and implement strategies for fiscal accountability and budget management. Skilled at re-envisioning, building, inspiring and managing a team, especially in a time of growth and change.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE : Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, with a degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or related field. Master's degree preferred. Ten (10) years of accomplished strategic communications experience of increasing scope required, preferably with some experience at a public agency or with a large, complex organization. Proven experience as a leader in communicating with a diverse community. Experience in leading and managing a team of communications professionals. Experience working proactively with media, establishing influential productive working relationships. Experience functioning successfully as a communications strategist and spokesperson in a politically charged environment.