Public Information Program Manager

Job Description:

The Communications & Media Relations Department is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Public Information Program Manager to lead the development and execution of Calvert County’s public information and communication strategies. The ideal candidate will possess a strategic mindset, exceptional leadership abilities and a proven track record in managing public information programs that effectively engage the community and promote transparency.

As a skilled storyteller and writer, you will craft compelling narratives, amplify key messages and manage public outreach initiatives across various platforms. You’ll work closely with media outlets to enhance public awareness and foster strong community relationships.

If you’re passionate about public service and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply.

Supervises public information program and staff. Duties include oversight of all aspects of media relations, public information and employee communication programs through writing news items, newspaper articles, stories, bulletins, speeches, reports, letters, Fact Sheets, television and radio scripts, and other outreach materials. Serves the internal and external public information and media relations communications needs for county government departments, the County Administrator’s Office and Board of County Commissioners. Assists as a senior departmental liaison with external groups such as the media, business interests, community groups and the general public. Continually improves operations, work processes and works to provide quality customer service. Reports directly to the Senior Communications Program Manager.

Essential Job Functions

Supervises a public information/press relations program emphasizing placement of favorable articles that highlight the products, services, and work of County employees and the Commissioners, focusing on transparency in government and developing positive, enduring relationships with the public and press.

Serves as backup public information officer for emergency management responses such as drills for major utility projects and local emergencies deemed by Emergency Management and the Department of Public Safety.

Attends related meetings and performs assignments that pertain to marketing and outreach for County government and the Board of County Commissioners.

Assists in executing and implementing a public information/press relations program emphasizing the placement of favorable articles in media and focusing on developing working relationships with the regional press.

Develops and reviews all written and printed copy prior to distribution.

Writes video scripts, social media copy and press releases.

Serves as a point of contact for media inquiries for Board of County Commissioners, writes speeches, press releases and provides communication to elected officials, public and media contacts.

Coordinates printed marketing and public relations materials that are distributed by the Department.

Writes for a variety of publications and acts as a resource to County Departments on public relations and communication matters.

Assists in providing media training as needed for various county departments and Board of County Commissioners.

Other Duties

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (These are pre-employment KSA that apply only to Essential Job Functions.)

Knowledge of--

• Media relations for government, elected officials and media contacts.

• Public relations tactics and techniques.

• Associated Press Style and acceptable standards for communicating with the media.

• Principles and practices of marketing materials and target marketing.

Ability to--

• Create effective communication materials.

• Communicate effectively with industry representatives, other governmental officials, and others encountered in the workplace and in public arenas.

• Prepare speeches for County officials.

• Prepare fact sheets on Commissioner projects and serve as a resource in preparation of fact sheets to other Departments.

• Promote the services of the County.

• Develop, maintain, and manipulate databases.

• Deal effectively with the public and media.

Required Qualifications (Note: Any acceptable combination of education, training and relevant experience that provides the above knowledge, abilities and skills may be substituted on a full-time year for year basis.)

Training and/or Education:

Bachelor’s degree in communications, business ad