Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the districts communications strategy aligned with the Jeffco strategic plan, ensuring a clear and consistent voice that communicates district priorities, progress, and impact.
• Execute the communications strategy by leading planning, managing staff and resources, directing writing and editing, and overseeing the districts Public Information Officer. Coordinate with the Superintendent, Chief of Staff, and subject matter experts to respond to media inquiries.
• Serve as a lead writer and communications advisor to the Superintendent, developing speeches, presentations, board communications, and other high-impact messaging.
• Direct crisis communications within the districts incident command structure by coordinating public messaging and supporting the Districts Public Information Officer in managing media inquiries and aligning communications with emergency services and law enforcement spokespeople.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop communications for key district initiatives and manage the team to produce and disseminate content.
• Build relationships with school leaders to understand and support school communication needs.
• Collaborate with administrative and department leaders to maximize Communications Services support.
• Prepare communications for district and school leaders, providing guidance on crisis communications, news releases, and sensitive or urgent matters.
• Assess and manage communications tools and resources supporting district, school, and department communications.

Requirements

• EXPERIENCE 3 years of senior manager/director or above experience in communications, with an emphasis in the development and coordination of public information, media relations, journalism, community outreach, community engagement, or public relations.
• EDUCATION AND TRAINING Bachelor's Degree in communications, public administration, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related fields.
• CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, OR REGISTRATIONS Valid driver license required.
• KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Must have the ability to develop strategic messages and deliver them effectively to a wide variety of audiences, including representing Jeffco Public Schools, the Superintendent, and the leadership team in public forums and community settings. Must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of district achievements and current issues affecting Colorado's public education system. Must have the ability to work in a self-directed manner within a fast-paced, deadline-driven, and complex environment. Must have the skills to lead multiple projects and analyze information to solve problems. Must have exceptional oral, writing, proofreading, and editing skills. This position requires proficiency with current technology to perform assigned duties.
• SPAN OF CONTROL Provides executive leadership, direction, and supervision for the districts Communications Services team. Oversees all communications functions, budget and resources, and vendor partnerships, with broad authority to establish strategy, prioritize work, and allocate resources. Serves as an authorized spokesperson for the district and directs media relations, operating with a high degree of autonomy while partnering closely with the Chief of Staff, Superintendent and district cabinet team