Director of Communications

Director Of Communications

The Director of Communications plays a critical role in developing effective messaging and communication strategies. This position must create, or oversee the creation of, promotional and informative materials Service Oklahoma will send internally to employees, as well as externally to leaders of the community and the public. The Communications Director will work with all forms of media, including press releases and digital campaigns, print materials, social media, audio and video and more.

The Director of Communications essentially controls and oversees the flow of communication and information between Service Oklahoma and state leadership or the public. This includes, but is not limited to managing the communications division, acting as the face of the agency at media events, and directing communications and public relations campaigns.

Position responsibilities include creating, implementing and managing multiple communication strategies including digital communication, direct communication, events communication and content communication programs to increase awareness and engagement in Service Oklahoma programs and goals. Oversees all social media channels and campaigns, including content creation, scheduling, social media ads, and tracking. Oversees website management and email communications, including written and digital content, redesign as needed, SEO optimization and tracking analytics. Leads in the creative development, production and distribution of all related communications and online materials and products. Plans, writes, and edits press releases, advertising and other public information. Creates, executes, and manages external and internal communications strategies from inception through implementation. Creates, maintains, and manages consistent brand image throughout all communications and promotional materials and product lines; ensures all agency campaigns and media have consistent and positive messaging and branding. Collects and analyzes communication research and audience demographics to gauge effectiveness of communication efforts; make data-driven strategic or tactical adjustments as needed. Oversees contractors or creative firms who assist with related projects. Creates, implements and maintains procedures that enhance the efficiency of the Communications team. Develops and maintains professional relationships with communication professionals, state-wide leadership, and audiences across the state. Manages and develops communications staff; manages schedules and workflow. Assigns duties and monitors quality of work; assures staff conforms to organizational policies, procedures, and government regulations. Provides day-to-day guidance and oversight of subordinates; actively works to promote and recognize performance. Keeps up to date on overall activities of the team, identifying problem areas and taking corrective actions. Hosts, attends, represents Service Oklahoma in speaking engagements and special events. Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities include knowledge and understanding of all social platforms with experience developing campaigns that deliver measurable results. Knowledge and ability to produce creative, concise, and clean written materials for media pitches and social media; to work independently and in a team-oriented environment; to be a team player and collaborator. Successful at building relationships and interviewing individuals to develop content, pitches, social media and spokesperson opportunities. Knowledge and ability to develop compelling and creative content, both written and visual, for social media. Proven success in building and maintaining key relationships and meeting strategic goals; proven track record of securing solid media relations results. Ability to be flexible and demonstrate strong judgment / decision-making skills; to intelligently build a course of action, analyze trade-offs, and make recommendations even in ambiguous situations. Ability to respond to crises or challenging situations quickly and professionally. Ability to become a trusted leader in communication strategy; to analyze and resolve complex issues, both logical and interpersonal. Ability to create new processes and systems to improve organizational efficiencies. Effective communication with ability to build consensus; demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills and professional presentation skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong editing skills. Strong organizational and project management skills; excellent written, presentation and analytical skills.

Education & experience : The preferred minimum qualifications for this position are : a Bachelor's Degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or closely related field, PLUS five (5) years of leadership experience in communications, public relations, communications. OR equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special requirements : The schedule for this position may vary and require flexibility, including some early or late shifts, weekends, and occasional overtime, based on the needs of the agency. This position will require occasional travel. The employee must be willing and able to perform all job-related travel. State vehicles may be available, but reliable transportation may be required for local travel. This position works in a comfortable office setting with a computer for a large percentage of the workday. This position requires employees to be able to stand up to eight hours a day and lift 10-50 pounds on a regular basis, with assistance as needed. This position may require the use of stairs, walking, standing, and kneeling.