COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Performs complex professional and responsible work in the development and dissemination of a variety of dynamic and high-level policy communications initiatives.
 
The Communications Manager is responsible for developing, creating, and maintaining high-quality and consistent communications strategies, in collaboration with key internal and external stakeholders, while ensuring alignment with short-term and long-term Council and Town goals, objectives, and priority initiatives. This position is also responsible for assuring communications strategies and cadence are attuned with the recommendations of the Imagine Cary Community Plan and citizen and community needs.
 
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Assistant Town Manager.Develops, manages, and implements communications strategies and plans consistent with the objectives of the Imagine Cary Community plan, adjusting to changing needs of policy initiatives as progress is made; 
 
Maintains a balcony view of high priority initiatives, ensuring that related communications content and timeliness are strategically coordinated; Provides support, assistance and advisement to senior leadership on communication of high priority initiatives;
 
Complements and supports a larger communications program in consultation and collaboration with Marketing and 311 operations; Translates complex technical information into easily understandable communications materials for a variety of audiences;
 
Supports subject matter experts to develop, execute, and evaluate communication plans for priority initiatives, events, programs, and awareness campaigns for dissemination across multiple media channels; Tracks, maintains, and strategically coordinates scheduled release of a variety of topics, ensuring a proper cadence and consideration of competing information;
 
Works with experienced professionals in cross-functional teams to generate, coordinate, write, review, and edit communications materials, including news releases, media advisories, and public service announcements;
 
Establishes and maintains effective and positive working relationships with a broad scope of internal and external stakeholders, including media representatives; Monitors and responds to media inquiries related to specific Cary priority initiatives, programs and/or events;  
 Manages and operates in a dynamic fast-paced environment with high expectations for producing work and listening effectively while being strategic, tactical, and collaborative; 
 
Exercises quality control and adherence to Cary’s brand and style standards for social media and interactive posts, and campaigns; Monitors Cary’s website content related to high priority initiatives and reviews website content and web page design updates prior to publication;
 
Assists with the preparation of polished materials for public presentations and represents Cary among regional communications groups;
 
Performs and evaluates research and data to track metrics on communication efforts and outreach;
 
Utilizes social media management and listening tools to set goals and advises on best practices and campaign standards in support of identified goals;
 
Prepares professional services contracts, and hires and manages consultants when needed;
 
Performs other job-related tasks as required.Exceptional demonstrated organizational, interpersonal, and oral, written and electronic communication skills; extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, methods and techniques of marketing, communications and social media platforms; knowledge of Cary’s policies procedures, philosophies, and goals, including Cary style and brand; thorough knowledge of English grammar, AP style, and composition; knowledge of the principles and techniques of public relations, creative writing, journalism, and web writing; ability to effectively collect and present complex information to a variety of audiences, including executive staff, colleagues, and citizens; ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities and requests simultaneously; ability to balance strategic thinking with tactical execution and strong attention to detail; considerable knowledge of the requirements, policies and procedures of various news media outlets; knowledge of local, state and federal laws regarding speech, copyright, trademark, and defamation; knowledge of government systems, responsibilities, governance, communications laws and regulations; knowledge of current technologies and communication and engagement trends; ability to keep abreast of and apply emerging technologies and trends; ability to exercise initiative and independent judgment; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Cary officials, Cary staff, community and media partners, and the public.  Requires any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or related field and considerable experience in these areas. Experience with communications and/or marketing of sustainability, climate action, environmental, stormwater, floodplain, and/or housing programs preferred.    

Physical Requirements
Work in this class is generally inside and sedentary.  An employee must have such visual acuity as to be able to read and write handwritten and typewritten material including being able to read a computer screen. An employee in this class must be able to talk and hear in order to be able to respond to the public and other employees.

Special Requirements
Requires a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Requires drug testing and background check (which may include criminal check, education verification and credit history review) prior to employment.
 
Work is generally during regular business hours but must be able and available to work occasionally after-hours, including weekends, as needed during emergency events or Town-related community events.

FLSA Status
Exempt