STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Hiring Salary Range : $60,000 - $70,000

The Strategic Communications Specialist serves as the department’s primary point of contact for all written communications.

As necessities arise, the Strategic Communications Specialist will conduct research, think critically about the objective of the piece and drafts, edits and reviews content accordingly.

All drafted content is expected to have a standardized and consistent brand voice, which will be developed and implemented by the Strategic Communications Specialist.

The Strategic Communications Specialist also takes the lead on internal communications, ensuring that information is accessible and reaches employees at all levels and locations.

Essential Job Functions :

Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor to limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.)

• Serve as editor / team lead for all written content creation and development, working with other team members who may assist with content creation.
• Research both internal and external communication needs and establishes goals and objectives.
• Write content for traditionally printed materials, including fliers, brochures, rack cards, annual reports, newsletters, as well as posters and other signage, etc.
• Draft content for traditionally digital communications, including our website (gohrt.com), our intranet, our blog, push notifications, and email / text campaigns, etc.
• Compose content for public relations purposes, including press releases and media kits.
• Assist with drafting written communications on behalf of senior executives to internal and external audiences.
• Edit, review and proof content drafted by team members as needed to ensure consistency with brand voice.
• Work with technology team to post appropriate content to our website as needed.
• Develop attractive and informative PowerPoints and slide decks for presentations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of copy and materials and recommends / implements revised communication strategies and approaches.
• Collaborate with team on customer needs and develops and implements communication solutions.
• Collaborate with graphic designers from concepting through finalization of materials.
• Ensure all materials follows appropriate standards / guidelines, and cycles through the appropriate approval process(es).
• Identify improvements / efficiencies that support operational excellence, and supports business initiatives (brand voice, standardization, etc.).
• Lead internal communications strategies, which ensure agency information flows to all employees, no matter their level or location.
• Develops annual internal communications plan and coordinates cross functionally to implement.
• Manage records created and received in compliance with the Hampton Roads Transit Records Management Policy and Procedures.

Required Knowledge, Abilities and Skills essential to Job Functions :

Strong communications skills, including writing and public speaking. Experience with managing projects / project management principles.

Must be able to communicate information positively, clearly, accurately and effectively for a variety of audiences. Knowledge of developing and implementing communications plans.

Must be able to coordinate meaningful engagement with internal staff, outside agencies and individuals. Proven knowledge of public relations, communications, marketing and media principles.

Must be highly organized and able to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously. Organized and proactive. Forward-thinking visionary.

Required Software Knowledge and Skills essential to Job Functions :

Proficiency in using computer systems and the listed software applications associated with performance of assigned work is essential.

Basic problem-solving skills associated with software applications used is expected. Software usage relevant to job duties will be evaluated.

Software applications :

Microsoft Windows / Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Safety Responsibility :

Perform all duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect oneself, fellow employees and the public from injury or harm.

Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures and policies. Take an active part in reporting unsafe conditions and any hazards within the workplace to their Supervisor, Manager and / or the Safety Department.

Training and / or Education :

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in communications, journalism, English or a closely related field.

Required Experience :

Qualified candidates must have at least 4-6 years’ experience writing corporate communications, or doing similar work. Must have experience with AP-style writing.

Licenses or Certificates :

Possess a valid Driver’s License. Acquire a Virginia Driver’s License within 60 days after the date of hire (in instances when an out of state license is not the applican’t current state of residence).

Special Requirements :

This position is classified as non-essential personnel.

FLSA Status : Non-Exempt

Non-Exempt

Physical Demands :

Work requires some physical effort in transporting equipment and materials, making onsite presentations, setting up displays, operation of a keyboard device and standing for long periods of time.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Unusual Demands :

Work will require evening and weekend hours for public hearings, speaking engagements, major events and other meetings. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work involves meeting multiple demands on a timely basis.

Duties may require some seasonal overtime.

Accessibility : If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at

Phone : 757-222-6000

Email : [email protected]

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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