Communications & Public Information Manager
Want a dynamic and exciting career in public relations and customer service while impacting multiple facets of local government and the helping the public? Think you have what it takes to excel in one of the Kansas City metro’s most sought after communities? The City of Leawood is seeking out a conscious, capable leader with expertise in public relations and coordinating a company wide marketing plan to flourish as its first Communications & Public Information Manager. The successful individual must be able to work cross-functionally, pivot quickly and plan for the future strategically while ensuring the success of multiple stakeholders and City staff.
Additional Information: The City of Leawood offers opportunities in which the employee could increase their experience and training. The position is eligible to receive merit based pay increases every year (merit increase up to 3.9% increase). Employees also receive a Time In Service Bonus every three years of employment on their anniversary date equal to 5% of their annual salary.
Summary of the Position: Under general supervision, the Communications & Public Information Manager is responsible for developing and overseeing the City’s strategic communication plan for the dissemination of news and information, both written and oral, to the public. Will act as City’s Public Information Officer. Responsibilities may contribute to any or all of the following areas: marketing, communications, public relations, media relations, and publication of various newsletters, documents, and other internal and external educational materials.
General Overview of Responsibilities:
- Oversees the planning, development, and implementation of the City of Leawood’s strategic communication plan. Responsible for assisting the departments with the development, revision and approval for internal and external electronic and hard copy publications and communications made on the behalf of the City.
- Assists the City Administration in implementing the City’s branding and marketing plan in coordination with the appointed department representatives.
- Serves as liaison for media outlets on public relation communications on behalf of the City Administration.
- Develops and implements a social media and internet content plan to ensure consistency in communication and publication standards. Collaborates with and guides Department content representatives in developing customer-friendly web site copy consistent with the City’s strategic public information plan.
- Responsible for training department media spokespeople to ensure all communication released on behalf of the department and City is in accordance with the City’s strategic communication plan and procedures.
- Provides event coordination services for Mayor and City-wide sponsored events and activities.
- Works with department spokespeople in preparing and disseminating community engagement media, educational programs, news releases, speeches, fact sheets and public relations information to the public.
- Assists department spokespeople and citywide staff in creating various publications including public service announcements, newsletters and marketing materials to be used on promotional items and social media platforms.
- Maintains the City Wide database for public relation outlets.
- Represents the City of Leawood at local events and engagements as requested by the City Administrator.
- Works with the City’s emergency management personnel to develop and improve employee communication for emergencies. May serve as back up in the management of Notify JoCo.
Minimum Requirements: Minimum of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, Advertising or related field. Must have a minimum of four (4) years of experience in Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, Advertising or related field while developing and implementing programs of public information. Six plus years of experience in developing and implementing programs of public information, preferred. Experience in a municipality public information setting, preferred. Must possess a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record per the City’s drivers Use of Vehicles for City Business policy throughout employment with the City.
Accepting Applications through Monday, April 17, 2023
Targeted Rate of Pay: $75,000 To $85,000 Annually, DOQ
(This is an exempt benefits eligible position.)
Excited to learn more? Submit your application and resume for consideration TODAY!