Southwest Local Schools
Job Description
Reports to: Superintendent
Approved By: Board of Education
Positional Approval Date: June 2017
General Description: The Public Relations / Communications Officer will direct, coordinate, and oversee implementation of the district’s communications and public relations program by performing the following duties:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
1. Serve as a member of the district leadership team and participate in creating / finalizing district-related policies.
2. Create / present appropriate data to the BOE.
3. Attend monthly BOE Meetings.
4. Plan / develop (with input from the Superintendent and BOE) the district’s public relations strategies, policies and procedures.
5. Collaborate with building administrators / teachers to successfully communicate news and information in the district.
6. Create and implement public relations strategies that represent the BOE / Superintendent.
7. Advise the BOE / Superintendent on community relations projects and activities.
8. Fields and directs responses to all media-related inquiries.
9. Develops a working relationship with media contacts and works with media (print, radio and television) to provide information and promote a strong, relationship between the district and the press, and to promote an appropriate image for the district.
10. Develop articles for social media, newspapers, journals and websites on a regular basis.
11. Develop brochures, pamphlets and booklets to communicate about various aspects / activities of the district.
12. Develop and coordinate advertising / branding campaigns for the district.
13. Photographs identified district events for publications and displays.
14. Prepares and writes applicable news releases.
15. Creates district publications and grant writing for the school district.
16. Manages the district’s presence on social media.
17. Coordinate / maintain the district’s website.
18. Serves on committees as designated by the Superintendent.
19. Serves as a member of the crisis response team.
20. Attends after school and evening and community events when required.
21. Maintains up to date knowledge of technology utilized by the district.
22. Coordinates, plans and attends identified district events such as parades, staff retirement recognition, etc.
23. Set annual objectives for the district’s PR program and budget for meeting objectives.
24. Support the superintendent in overall administrative efforts – interpreting ideas / decisions to staff and public.
25. Creates district quality profile, newsletters and annual reports.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES – This person would directly supervise employees when dealing with building and district communications. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the district’s policies and negotiated agreements.
QUALIFICATIONS – To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE – Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, English or Journalism, or related field is required. Three years’ experience in development / implementation of communications and public relations. Successful experience in writing, editing, photojournalism and social media management are also important.
LANGUAGE SKILLS – Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, colleagues and administration. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret testing and survey results, financial reports and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries and complaints from students, parents, agencies, teachers, or members of the school community. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format. Ability to effectively present information to administration, staff, public groups, and / or Board of Education.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS – Valid certificate / license as issued by the Ohio Department of Education.
OTHER SKILLS & ABILITIES – Ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory based on school objectives. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, peers, parents and the community. Ability to speak clearly and concisely in written and oral communications. Ability to perform duties with awareness of district requirements and BOE policies. Must have excellent organizational and time management skills. Excellent written communication skills required. Experienced and proficient in use of technology. Excellent verbal (including listening) and non-verbal communication skills. Must be able to provide demonstrated leadership in the execution of communication strategies. Must be able to work independently. Pushing the agenda and goals of the school district is imperative. Political acumen and organizational support is strong focus as well.
If interested, please apply at: https://www.applitrack.com/greatercincinnati/onlineapp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&applitrackclient=38253&category=Administration
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