Position Type:
Administration

Date Posted:
9/1/2020

Location:
Superintendent`s Office

Date Available:
09/01/2020

Closing Date:
Open Until Filled


POSITION: COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING SPECIALIST

REPORTS TO: ELIZABETH SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT

POSITION SUMMARY

The Communications and Marketing Specialist will be tasked with coordinating a comprehensive public information and media relations program to promote and provide information about the district to citizens, and the media, with special emphasis on social networking sites. Under the direction of the superintendent the Communications and Marketing Specialist is responsible for developing and delivering communication plans, resources and tools for district leadership; enhancing parent and community engagement; serving as the district's public information officer; developing and delivering internal and external communications designed to present a professional and credible image of Elizabeth Schools; and advancing the brand and mission of the district.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops and implements communications strategies both internally and externallyCompiles and develops informational literature, press releases, and other items to promote understanding of district operationsResponds to media inquiries and develops media strategy as requiredRepresents the district and various departments through participation in organizations, committees, and intergovernmental activitiesDevelops policies and publicity programs with district schools and departmentsMaintains department web pagesMay work directly with elected officials and key community leaders as neededDevelops and implements strategic internal and external communication plans and activities that effectively promote the district and its schoolsProvides counsel and support to the superintendent, board of education and school leadership to position the district and its schools in the most favorable way with the communityDevelops and manages various district print and electronic publications including newsletters, web pages, fact sheets/brochures and special projects.Ensures timely and relevant information is maintained on district websiteManage district presence on social media including Facebook and TwitterDesigns and develops internal and external communication vehicles to communicate district-wide matters

• Plans and coordinates community engagement activities that build relationships with external, internal and targeted audiences.Manages public-facing crisis communication, including communication of emergent situations to parents, staff and community and long-term development of systems and messaging that ensure efficient and accurate responseServes as the public information officer (PIO)/spokesperson, when appropriateMaintain a positive working relationship with local news media through proactive contacts and serving as a source of informationWorks with school and department staff in implementation of activities that advance internal and external communication effortsDevelops talking points to enhance support and understanding of the Elizabeth Schools.Actively responds to information requests about key events and issuesTakes photographs/video for use in publications, on websites and social mediaPerforms other related duties as assigned or needed.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree with a major pertinent to communications, journalism or marketing, or equivalent advanced training in communications.

Experience:

• At least 5 years of five years of experience in communications, marketing, public relations or journalism. At least 1 year of experience in a public sector environment preferred. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite including InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator preferred.Experience with a DSLR camera and video recording equipment preferred.

Skills:

• Strong oral and written communications skillsStrong organizational and problem solving abilityAbility to take initiativeAdvance, proofreading, grammar, spelling, research and analytical skillsKnowledge of various communication approaches, principles and practices, including community engagement, marketing, public and media relations and journalismAbility to build strong community and media relationshipsExcellent time management skills and the ability to meet tight deadlinesStrong working knowledge of communication and presentation skills, writing, media understanding, and website development and management.

Knowledge:

• Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of public and media relations and education issuesGraphic art and production of publications; audio visual and video equipmentPersonal computers and related software applicationsStrong understanding of metro area media market

Abilities:

• To establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, citizens, and elected officialsHandle sensitive and stressful situations with tact and diplomacyMake public presentationsTo meet tight deadlines

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

• Maintains a very high level of confidentiality and professionalismMaintains a very positive attitude; is flexibleWork hours include the possibility of occasional weekend or evening activities
  

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Physical Demands:

• Sedentary physical work requiring ability to lift a maximum of 30 pounds with or without assistanceOccasional lifting, carrying, walking, and standingVision for reading, interpreting reports, and preparation of data analysisHand/eye coordination for operation of computerSpeech communication and hearing to maintain communication with employees, and citizens

Work Environment:

• Works in a clean, comfortable environment

Equipment Used:

• Personal computer with related softwarePeripheral equipment

SUPERVISORY DUTIES None