Responsibilities

• Strategic Communications & Media Relations: Serve as the City’s Public Information Officer (PIO). Oversee messaging, press releases, media requests, and crisis communications during critical incidents or time-sensitive situations.
• Brand & Content Management: Direct the City's brand standards across all channels to maintain a consistent voice. Lead the creation of executive messaging, presentations, and publications, including the layout of the City's annual budget document in partnership with Finance.
• Team Leadership & Supervision: Manage, coach, and evaluate the Communications Division staff. Initiate personnel actions (hiring, discipline, performance reviews) and foster a culture of empowerment and innovation.
• Interdepartmental Advisory: Serve as an internal communications advisor to the Mayor, Board of Aldermen, and department directors—with targeted support for HR, Economic Development, Police, and Parks & Recreation.
• Community Engagement & Issue Resolution: Investigate stakeholder and Board concerns, manage community relations, and attend civic events to maintain public trust.
• Administration & Budgeting: Prepare and manage the Communications budget, participate in strategic planning, and support performance management initiatives following ICMA best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications or a related field required.
• Additional job experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 8 years of related experience required.
• Additional job-related advanced degrees or certifications may be considered in lieu of experience.
• Previous experience with a Board or City Council is desired.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• In-depth knowledge of principles and practices of City management/administration and industry trends.
• Knowledge of social media, website, and digital communication trends.
• Understanding of budgeting, finance, and grant administration and programs/services offered is essential to the overall strategic communications planning.
• Proficiency in use of basic business software (word processing, spreadsheets, email, presentations) and basic office equipment.

Benefits

• The City of Wentzville is committed to being an employer of choice, offering prosperous and meaningful career opportunities and flexibility. The City offers excellent benefits, including health, vision, dental, employer-paid life insurance, long-term disability, a retirement pension, 13 paid holidays, five personal days, vacation time, sick time, tuition reimbursement, an employee assistance program, a discounted recreation center membership and much more.