Communications Manager

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Communication Strategy and Implementation

• Develops, implements, and evaluates comprehensive communications strategies and plans for the Town

• Directs the flow of information, promoting Town projects, initiatives, and events to the public and media via appropriate channels

• Monitors and evaluates communication effectiveness through data analytics, surveys, and direct feedback

• Provides communications counsel to Town Manager, Assistant Town Manager, Department Heads, and Town Board

• Establishes policies, standards, and guidelines for Town communications

Digital Communications Management

• Manages and maintains Town website content, ensuring information is accurate, relevant, and user-friendly

• Develops and implements content strategies across social media platforms to increase public awareness and engagement

• Coordinates with departments to ensure consistent messaging across all digital platforms

• Analyzes digital communication metrics to evaluate effectiveness and recommend improvements

• Trains departmental content editors on website updates and social media best practices

Media Relations and Public Information

• Serves as primary media contact and Town spokesperson

• Develops and maintains productive relationships with local, regional, and social media

• Prepares and distributes news releases, media advisories, and public service announcements

• Coordinates media coverage for Town events, programs, and initiatives

• Responds to media inquiries and arranges interviews with appropriate Town officials

Content Development and Production

• Creates, designs, and produces high-quality communication materials including newsletters, brochures, reports, presentations, and other publications

• Develops compelling visual content including graphics, photographs, and videos

• Ensures all materials adhere to Town branding standards and communication guidelines

• Coordinates and gathers information to produce internal and external newsletters

• Builds and maintains comprehensive photo and video archives

Community Engagement and Public Relations

• Facilitates public engagement initiatives to increase citizen participation and feedback

• Plans and implements public information campaigns for major Town initiatives

• Identifies trends in citizen interactions and develops targeted outreach strategies

• Manages Town email distribution lists and databases for effective communication

• Creates and maintains a database of citizen inquiries to identify informational needs

Event Planning and Coordination

• Oversees Town-sponsored events and coordinates with departments and external partners

• Chairs the events team and provides strategic direction for Town events

• Ensures proper promotion and coverage of Town events and programs

• Attends Town programs and events to gather content and information

Brand Management and Marketing

• Oversees consistent application of the Town brand across all platforms and materials

• Develops and implements marketing plans to promote Town services and programs

• Creates graphics and promotional materials that support Town initiatives

• Ensures professional appearance and consistent messaging across all communication channels

Other Duties

• Records official meetings as needed

• Provides training and guidance to staff on communication best practices

• Performs special projects as assigned by the Assistant Town Manager

• Performs other duties as required

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, or closely related field

• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or related field, preferably in a governmental setting

• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Special Requirements

• Valid North Carolina driver's license

• Bilingual in Spanish preferred

• Experience with video production, graphic design, and photography preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive knowledge of principles, practices, and techniques of public relations, marketing, and communications

• Thorough knowledge of municipal government operations, functions, policies, and procedures

• Extensive knowledge of media relations, social media management, and digital communication strategies

• Advanced knowledge of writing styles including AP Style, with excellent editing and proofreading skills

• Proficiency with content management systems, graphic design software, video editing tools, and analytics platforms

• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office products, Adobe Creative Cloud, and other specialized communication software

• Strong project management skills with ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences

• Ability to think strategically and creatively to develop innovative communication solutions

• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships

• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision

• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends as needed