CLASS TITLE:  Communications Manager

PURPOSE OF THE CLASSIFICATION:   

Responsible for overseeing communications to the media, public and employees including preparing and delivering articles, press kits, press releases and other content initiatives.  Cultivates and manages relationships with media representatives. 

ESSENTIAL TASKS:

=        Prepares articles and press releases for the media.

=        Ensures the City’s image is protected and is promoted in a proper and consistent manner.

=        Creates and delivers proactive and effective PR plans to promote all City of Muskogee activities.

=        Cultivates and enhances collaborative working relationships within the press and publicity community.

=        Manages the flow of news about the City to the media. 

=        Oversees and responds to all media records requests.

=        Gathers and disseminates timely information to press and staff.

=        Creates effective communication channels.

=        Acts as the media spokesperson on behalf of the City and addresses questions, concerns and complaints.

=        Acts as the point of contact for film crews or other publicity; acts as the main point of contact for all media enquiries. 

=        Researches and writes briefing materials.

=        Assembles press kits.

=        Maintains and updates all social media accounts for the City including website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.

=        Organizes promotional events such as press conferences, ribbon cuttings, exhibitions, tours and visits. 

=        Composes and edits press releases, City literature, newsletters and articles for internal and external use.

• Manages digital presence on all social media platforms and directs programs to improve social media reputation and recognition.
• Curates content from existing influencers within the Muskogee community.
• Monitors effectiveness of PR and marketing campaigns and initiatives by compiling analytics.
• Prepares and directs video editing and production.
• Designs and creates necessary graphic elements for PR and marketing initiatives.
• Creates, maintains and implements internal social media policies including training of employees on those policies.
• Consults with and trains, as necessary, City departments on effective social media strategies to promote their organization (i.e. Civic Center, Parks and Recreation, Hatbox, etc.).
• Arranges any necessary media purchases and manages associated budget(s) including return on investment and profit-loss projections.
• Maintains up to date information on competing cities, initiatives and trends.
• Participates in and helps lead teams as necessary on PR initiatives and responses (i.e. crisis, special projects, etc.).
• Assists in directing any contract labor or PR staff in PR and marketing initiatives.

=        Operates office equipment such as copiers and phone systems and use computer for spreadsheets, word processing, database management, graphic design and other applications; learns to operate new office technologies as they are developed and implemented.

=        Performs other work as necessary and or as assigned.

• Must report to work on a regular and timely basis.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position. 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

The Communications Manager reports directly to the City Manager. 

The Communications Manager does not have any direct reports or supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience:  Graduation from an accredited university with a bachelor’s degree in public administration, media studies, communications, marketing, or similar field of study and at least two (2) years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:  Good knowledge of community resources and community needs within the city; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to use computer applications such as spreadsheets, word processing, calendar, email and database software; ability to work with diverse groups and businesses; ability to multitask efficiently; ability to speak clearly and effectively before groups and the media; ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with a wide variety of people; ability to read and write in English sufficiently to perform the essential functions of the position.  Requires excellent interpersonal, listening, organization and presentation skills and ability to prioritize and plan effectively.  This position requires a confident communicator with the ability to build relationships both internally and externally.  Professional approachable manner; ability to work under pressure and as part of a team. 

Physical Requirements:  The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.  On a case by case basis, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  While performing the duties of this job, arm and hand steadiness and finger dexterity will be needed enough to use a keyboard and telephone.  Frequent walking, standing, lifting and carrying of objects weighing up to ten (10) pounds, reaching, balancing, stooping, handling and climbing are required.   Vision, speech and hearing sufficient to perform essential tasks.  Punctuality and reasonable attendance is essential.  Must submit to drug screening and fitness to work physical exam.

Licenses and Certificates:  Possession of a valid Oklahoma Class D driver’s license is required. 

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:  Working environment is a combination of indoor and outdoor settings; requires travel to various city locations.

SALARY:  $56,118/yr. - $81,307/yr.  Excellent employee benefits (insurance, vacation leave, sick leave, retirement, holidays).

WORK HOURS:  8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

WORK LOCATION:  City of Muskogee City Manager’s Office, 229 West Okmulgee Avenue, Muskogee, Oklahoma.

RESUMES MAY BE SUBMITTED BUT WE REQUIRE OUR EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION  BE COMPLETED ALONG WITH THE APPLICATION. We can also fax, email or mail one to you or you can pick one up from the City of Muskogee Human Resources Department at 505 Columbus Street, Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Applications can be returned to the same address or by mail:  City of Muskogee, Human Resources Department, P. O. Box 1927, Muskogee, OK  74402-1927; by fax:  918-684-6223; or by email:  jkennedy@muskogeeonline.org.  If you should have any questions, please call the Human Resources Department at 918-684-6221 or inquire in person at the address above or fax or email (above).

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS:  There is no deadline for applications for this position – it will be open until filled.