Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY: This position is responsible for coordinating Public Safety (Police / Fire / EMS) communication activities and working directly with key internal and external stakeholders to foster a coordinated Public Safety communication plan. On an ongoing basis, this includes researching, assembling, writing, editing, and producing informative materials concerning agency operations, programs, and events.  During emergency situations, this position is responsible for leading the communications strategy to the public, the media, and within the organization.  Performs related work as directed and assists other departments with communications activities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: A qualified individual must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Functions as an official spokesperson for the agency in external communications with the media regarding operations, programs, and events as directed by supervisor.
• Remains on call during emergency situations.  Coordinates communications in real time to keep the public safe and informed. 
• Works with leadership to define and communicate the public image of the department of Public Safety. 
• Implements policies and strategies related to internal and external communications, public relations, marketing, community relations, and public information.
• Directs the activities of the public relations detail and manages effective relationships with all news media.
• Represents the department in various dealings with the public or other agencies.
• Communicates with and advises other departmental staff on service requests, problems or issues relating to area of responsibility.
• Plans and composes press releases, news stories, articles, speeches, radio and television scripts, bulletins, and various periodic and special purpose reports.
• Attends special events such as open house programs, displays and exhibits.
• Provides effective and efficient liaison efforts with other City of Kalamazoo communications staff and assists with other departments’ communication activities.
• Reviews social media pages and recommends new types of social media for effectiveness, efficiency, and security.  Works with department staff to coordinate social media strategies.  Trains employees on social media best practices and implementation on an ongoing basis.
• Monitors the effectiveness of various communication strategies and activities.  Reports results to leadership and makes recommendations for improvements, as necessary.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Marketing, Communications, Broadcast Media, or related field.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience demonstrating broad knowledge of all aspects of development and production of print and broadcast materials, effective public speaking, and regulatory standards governing the field, preferably within a public safety or similar public service environment; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Valid motor vehicle driver’s license and transportation availability.
• Strong, clear communicator and excellent interpersonal skills; proven ability to communicate with the public effectively and positively with all levels within the organization.
• Demonstrates a sense of urgency, prioritizes well, shows energy, responds to opportunities, instills urgency in others, and meets deadlines.
• Previous experience with preparing reports, researching information, gathering, analyzing and interpreting data.
• Strong organizational and multi-tasking and skills.
• Spanish language competency preferred.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.