Municipal Communications Director

CITY OF POUGHKEEPSIE JOB OPENING

MUNICIPAL COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

SALARY RANGE $60,000 - $65,000 PLUS BENEFITS

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: 

 

This is a managerial position in the Office of the Mayor and City Administrator which is responsible for public communications and relations work performed in the implementation of a public information program for the City of Poughkeepsie Government.  The person in this position is responsible for researching, collecting and providing information and providing confidential advice which will result in policy determination by the Mayor and high level administrative staff.  The work also involves advising the Mayor, City Administrator, department heads and other managerial staff in the communication of city government information, programs and policies to the media and the general public.  The incumbent acts as spokesperson for the Office of the Mayor and coordinates press conferences with the media.  Work is performed under the general direction of the Mayor with latitude for the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out work assignments to promote the City’s programs and policies.  This position is privy to information relating to a number of confidential and sensitive issues that are generated from the Mayor’s office.  Supervision may be exercised over the work of technical and support staff in the area of communications and public relations.  Work is often performed outside of conventional hours and under tight and changing deadlines.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITES: 

 

The following is indicative of the level and types of activities performed by incumbents in this title.   It is not meant to be all inclusive and does not preclude a supervisor from assigning activities not listed which could reasonably be expected to be performed by an employee in this title.

 

1. Acts as spokesperson for the Office of the City of Poughkeepsie Mayor and acts as liaison with City departments in their relationships with the media, approving any responses to inquiries relating to the City; 

2. Plans and directs major media releases from all City departments on a variety of topics, and  Interprets new policies and procedures as directed by the City Mayor: 

3. Formulates, implements and evaluates policies for City-wide public relations and promotion programs, ensuring effective implementation by maintaining liaison with departments to provide guidance and review prepared materials; 

4. Directs the preparation of communication materials, programs, promotions and projects, including news releases, publication medias, social media, video materials, etc;, both in written and automated formats; 

5. Establishes and maintains liaison with press correspondents, television, radio, newspaper editors and publishers; 

6. Keeps appraised of all issues in the City that are of concern to the Administrative office and the public;  keeps abreast of current or emerging public issues that have an impact on the policies or operations of the City; 

7. Attends conferences, meetings, seminars, public hearings, and presentations to gather information and represent the Office of the City Mayor: