Strategic Communications Specialist

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communication Planning:

Develop and execute a comprehensive communication strategy aligned with the BOE's goals and objectives.

• Align key messages for target audiences and select appropriate communication channels to ensure timely and effective dissemination of information

Public Relations:

• Build and maintain positive relationships with local media outlets, journalists, and community influencers.
• Coordinate press releases, interviews, and media appearances for designated Board members.

Media Relations:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate information.
• Ensure that the BOE's positive narratives are effectively conveyed through media coverage.

Crisis Communication:

• Develop and implement crisis communication plans to address emergencies or sensitive issues.
• Provide succinct messaging to ensure the Board is prepared to respond effectively to crisis situations.

Content Creation:

• Create and curate content for various communication channels such as the BOE’s website, social media profiles, newsletters, and press releases.
• Ensure content is informative, engaging, and aligned with the BOE’s messaging.

Social Media Management:

• Oversee the BOE’s social media presence, including posting updates, responding to comments, and monitoring online conversations.
• Maintain a positive online image for the Board.

Internal Communication:

• Ensure Board members, school district staff, and other stakeholders are well-informed about Board decisions, policies, and initiatives.

Brand Management:

• Maintain and protect the BOE’s brand and reputation by ensuring consistency in messaging and visual identity across all communication materials
• Monitor the effectiveness of communication efforts through data analytics.
• Gather feedback and adjust communication strategies to improve outcomes.
  
  Education Campaigns:

• Plan and execute public education campaigns to inform the community about educational initiatives, programs, and the significance of Board decisions.

Legislative Advocacy:

• Collaborate with government affairs teams and lobbyists to support the Board’s legislative agenda with communication and public relations support.

Training and Coaching:

• Provide media training and communication coaching to Board members and school district staff to enhance their public and media communication skills

Budget Management:

• Manage the communication department’s budget, allocating resources effectively to meet communication objectives.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with the superintendent’s office, Board members, and other district leaders to ensure alignment between communication efforts and the district’s overall goals.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or relevant industry experience in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. Advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., APR) preferred.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications, public relations, or a related field, with a focus on public education or governmental communication preferred.
• Familiarity with Prince George’s County’s community and educational landscape is highly desirable
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in social media management tools and platforms, as well as content creation and editing software.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to handle crisis situations with calmness and professionalism.

Personal Attributes:

• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for enhancing community engagement and transparency in public education

1st Choice is a professional management consulting firm with more than two decades of experience delivering innovative consulting, technology, and staffing solutions to federal and commercial organizations throughout the United States. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law