The Media Relations Officer, under minimal supervision, performs senior level work with extensive decision-making discretion in developing, leading, and executing a comprehensive and strategic communications effort for multiple audiences that publicizes the district's educational programs, student-focused initiatives, strategic goals, and vision.
Employee performs highly advanced and supervisory work to carry out Board of Education policies and procedures related to district communications and public information under the direction of the Chief Officer of Strategic Communications and Engagement.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Salary / Status
PG 12 / Full-time, 12 months
Reports To
Chief of Strategic Communications and Partnerships
Place of Work
The normal place of work is on the premises used by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools reserves the right to require you to work at such other place(s) as it may reasonably require from time to time.
Essential Functions
- Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures
- Lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate assigned staff / programs in the district
- Develop and manage annual communication and marketing plan that supports the district's vision, goals, objectives, and accomplishments
- Create / manage crisis communication and assist with reunification, and emergency drills
- Provide support and direction to district departments and schools in the planning, preparing, formatting, publishing and dissemination of reports and other communications
- Oversee and facilitate special projects internally and externally as needed / required
- Oversee and facilitate employee recognition efforts as needed / required
- Serve as a district spokesperson, fostering cooperative, professional relationships with media while building opportunities for engagement
- Develop and sustain cooperative relationships with community, employee, and public interest groups, seeking new ways to work collaboratively toward district goals / vision
- Craft and manage the district's communication messages through various traditional and digital means for both internal and external audiences, including social media, video content, written communications, and mass notification technology
- Monitor and respond to emails sent to the district's public media inbox, direct inquiries to appropriate departments
- Draft, edit, and distribute routine communications including, but not limited to press releases, alerts, newsletters, and statements
- Manage the district's mass notification system for communications to families and staff
- Operate and post content to official district social media accounts
- Respond to media inquiries and provide approved messaging to support transparency and accuracy
- Coordinate distribution of emergency communications, such as weather delays or crisis notifications
- Collaborate with district leaders and school staff to share approved updates and information with families and the public
- Maintain a basic awareness calendar (e.g., public education weeks, holidays) and assist in light campaign coordination and outreach activities as assigned
- Monitor public feedback and sentiment through digital platforms and escalate concerns
- Contribute to the district's overall communications and branding efforts by ensuring continuity, consistency, and professionalism in all district publications / communications
- Attend regular and called meetings of the Board of Education as needed / required
- Facilitate staff meetings and attend other related meetings as needed / required
- Participate in professional development workshops and leadership training
- Create an inclusive environment with positive communication / public relations
- Perform related work as assigned or required
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
Comprehensive in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures of public schoolsComprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements applicable to public school systemsComprehensive knowledge of communications, marketing, graphic design, and webpage managementSkilled in communications planning and project managementSkilled in writing, editing, and proofreadingAbility to communicate effectively both orally and in writingAbility to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines with a focus on resultsAbility to maintain professional and emotional control under stressAbility to reflect appropriate responses to situations, while maintaining a professional and personal demeanorAbility to learn and use specialized tools, equipment or software related to business needsAbility to implement local, state, and federal rules, guidelines, and procedures into daily business operationsAbility to communicate effectivelyAbility to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationshipsAbility to employ positive communication skills in all settings / mediumsAbility to problem-solve utilizing sound judgmentAbility to maintain confidentiality regarding school system businessAbility to develop related charts, graphs, reports, and records pertaining to school planning and strategyAbility to take initiative, work independently, and exercise sound judgementAbility to conceptualize, initiate, monitor, and evaluate new and / or current programsDemonstrated ability to perform detailed work, planning, risk assessments, and associated risk mitigation actionsDemonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environmentEducation And Experience
Bachelor's degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related area requiredSeven (7) years' experience in community relations and / or engagement, corporate social responsibility, educational advancement, communications, or public policy preferredPrior supervisory experience preferredEquivalent combination of experience and educationSpecial Requirements
Possess and maintain a valid Driver's License or ability to provide own transportationTravel to school district buildings and professional meetings#J-18808-Ljbffr