Responsibilities

• Defines, writes, and edits timely, relevant and effective communication to an array of stakeholders for a variety of channels including, but not limited to web copy, newsletter and magazine articles, speeches, news releases, official positions, message points, video scripts and correspondence.
• Establishes strategies to build community relationships by ensuring the open exchange of accurate information through community input and partnerships.
• Organizes the development and implementation of methods for communicating information to the public through various forms to include but not limited to news releases, email, use of videos, internet, social media, brochures, presentations, crime maps, media outlets, public broadcasting, or other mediums.
• Maintains positive contacts with the media, enhancing the image of the Department while providing the public with information that is complete, accurately verified, and up to date.
• Responds to media inquiries on routine, emergency, sensitive, and controversial matters.
• Develops pre-emptive crisis planning templates and leads all crisis communications.
• Drives comprehensive content development, including informational campaigns on department issues and initiatives, press releases, or similar communications.
• Arranges for and assists at news conferences, reviews information for release by Department personnel.
• Maintains a thorough working knowledge of positive public relations processes and best practices.
• Uses state-of-the-art photographic and videography equipment to shoot a wide variety of subjects in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university with major course work in communications, journalism, broadcasting, or related field and five or more years of related experience and/or training in public relations, communications, public administration, journalism, editorial work, or marketing. Must have demonstrated strong experience in writing, public speaking, website management, audio/video production methods, and community outreach.
• Must meet the requirements to access law enforcement systems.
• Subject to call out at night and on weekends; must have ability to respond at all hours to important events to coordinate social and traditional media relations.
• Requires a comprehensive background investigation to include a local, state, and federal criminal history check, sex offender registry check, credit check, and polygraph examination.
• This position requires eligibility for access to the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN). Must be a United States citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States who is eligible for naturalization.
• Must possess a valid Virginia driver's license and acceptable driving record according to city criteria.
• Must successfully complete IS100 and IS700 National Incident Management (NIMS) training within 90 days of employment. May also be required to complete higher levels of NIMS training as determined appropriate for the position.