Communications Director (Director V)

$110,000 - $130,000/Yr

Unclassified - Austin, TX

Full-time - Senior

Austin, TX

About the position

The Texas Space Commission is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director of Communications (Director V) to lead and manage strategic communications and media relations efforts. This senior-level managerial position is crucial for providing direction and guidance in promoting the Commission's initiatives and aligning them with the Governor's legislative priorities. The Director will coordinate all internal and external communication resources, ensuring that the Commission's messages are effectively communicated to the public and stakeholders. In this role, the Director will be responsible for developing a comprehensive strategic communications plan that aligns with the Commission's overall Strategic Plan. This includes overseeing the operations of the Communications and Press Office, managing media contacts, and developing integrated media strategies across digital channels. The Director will monitor media coverage of the Commission's events and initiatives, advising the Executive Director and Board of Directors on media reactions and necessary responses. The Director will also play a key role in managing the Commission's website and social media platforms, ensuring that all communications are consistent with the Governor's direction. This position requires a proactive approach to troubleshooting high-profile situations and serving as an official spokesperson when needed. The Director will implement policies and procedures related to public communication and media relations, review proposed legislation, and recommend staffing and technological needs to enhance the Commission's media relations efforts. Additionally, the Director will prepare speeches and talking points for the Executive Director and other executives, demonstrating subject matter expertise and professional confidence in representing the Commission.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of a strategic communications plan for the Commission, in alignment with the Commission's Strategic Plan.
• Oversee, supervise, and coordinate Communications and Press Office operations.
• Coordinate the process for responding to media contacts.
• Develop media strategy (integrated digital channels) for announcing the Commission's initiatives.
• Monitor media coverage of the Commission's events, appearances, and messages, and respond as needed.
• Advise the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and appropriate stakeholders on media reaction to proposed initiatives and actions.
• Coordinate with appropriate stakeholders regarding the Commission's positions on issues for press releases.
• Direct the development and management of the Commission's website, including social media platforms.
• Troubleshoot high profile situations.
• Serve as an official spokesperson for the Commission as requested by the Executive Director.
• Implement policies and procedures for activities related to public communication, media relations, and community relations.
• Direct the administration, management, analysis, and enhancement of the Commission's media relations efforts.
• Recommend staffing needs and appropriate hardware and software technologies.
• Review proposed legislation and direct the development and implementation of policies affecting public information and media/community relations.
• Accompany the Executive Director and/or Board of Directors at public appearances as needed.
• Plan, assign, and supervise the work of others.
• Prepare speeches and talking points for the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and other Executives within the Commission.
• Assist the Executive Director with coordination of Commission programs.
• Create standard operating procedures for all media engagements for the Commission board and personnel.
• Provide support to produce content for the Strategic Plan and supplemental resources.
• Produce informative material for the administration of the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree.
• Five (5) years of demonstrated and progressively responsible communication or public relations experience, with at least three (3) years in a senior management or executive-level position.

Nice-to-haves

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in journalism, public relations, media relations, or a related field.
• Extensive knowledge of space, aeronautics, and aviation industries in the State of Texas.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Sick leave
• Vacation leave
• Defined retirement plan