Responsibilities

• Responsible for developing a cohesive communications strategy in collaboration with the Section Chief, Media and Communications, the Media and Communications Division Staff, and Executive Management as appropriate.
• Collaborates with TDEM Media and Communications staff to address internal and external communications objectives and strategies, to include disaster-specific public information campaigns, materials, and agency initiatives.
• Displays a high degree of professionalism and thorough understanding of the organization, mission, vision, and goals; builds relationships and has a solid understanding of communication strategies that will support the growth of the agency.
• Responds to media inquiries, provides on camera interviews with media outlets, coordinates press conferences, and drafts and distributes press releases, including speeches for executive staff.
• Responsible for helping manage a joint information center during declared disasters in partnership with state emergency management council agency communication directors.
• Maximizes existing and new communication assets and channels (i.e. website, marketing collateral, social media, etc.). Maintains and updates these channels ensuring a high-quality presence.
• Develops, establishes, and implements goals and objectives consistent with the agency’s strategic plan.
• Provides preemptive planning and crisis communications management.
• Maintains quality control of all information released on behalf of the agency.
• Ability to travel 50%.

Requirements

• Education – Bachelor’s degree in communications or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience – Five (5) years of related experience.
• *Additional work experience of the type described above may be substituted for the education requirements on a year-for-year basis, with one (1) year experience equivalent to thirty (30) semester hours. A completed advanced degree in an applicable field may also be substituted in lieu of work experience.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to program areas; and of the principles and practices of public administration and management.
• Extensive knowledge of all areas of the agency.
• Skill in establishing plans and setting objectives and goals that support an overall communications strategy.
• Experience working as a public information officer.
• Displays excellent leadership and management skills.
• Demonstrates exceptional interpersonal skills.
• Exhibits superior critical thinking and analytical skills.