Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive public relations and community engagement strategy.
• Design, launch, and manage a Citizens Academy (4-week sessions, held twice annually) to educate residents on county operations and services.
• Organize and promote town halls, forums, and community events to encourage public participation and feedback.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with residents, community leaders, and local organizations.
• Draft and distribute press releases, newsletters, speeches, and official statements.
• Serve as the county's spokesperson and manage media relations.
• Oversee digital communications, including website content, email campaigns, and social media platforms.
• Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all county departments.
• Work closely with the Chair & CEO to align messaging with county priorities and initiatives.
• Coordinate with department heads to support internal and external communication needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience leading public relations, communications, marketing, or community engagement initiatives, including demonstrated experience developing strategic communication plans, managing media relations, leading crisis communications, and advising organizational leadership.
• Experience within county or municipal government or another public-sector organization is strongly preferred.
• OR a combination of education and experience equivalent to numbers #1 and #2 above.
• Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook); familiarity with design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) and content management systems is a plus.
• Strong understanding of media relations, crisis communication, and digital engagement strategies.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing public education or civic engagement programs.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in public relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Knowledge of local government structure, operations, and public policy is highly desirable.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed for community events and meetings.