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Public Information Officer
Sarasota County Government - Sarasota, FL
posted 2 months ago
About the position
The Public Information Officer (PIO) position at Sarasota County Government is an entry to mid-level role focused on managing communications between the county and various media outlets. The PIO will implement media engagement strategies, respond to media inquiries, and support the dissemination of accurate information regarding county activities. This role is essential for promoting the county's vision and ensuring effective media relations across all departments.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the Public Information Officer for Sarasota County Government, including all departments and as a backup for the Emergency Services PIO.
- Implement media engagement plans and write/distribute media releases, alerts, pitches, and talking points.
- Respond to media queries and facilitate media pitches.
- Provide on-site media relations support, including coordinating news conferences and media tours.
- Develop and maintain relationships with area reporters and media outlets to promote accurate coverage and correct misinformation.
- Assist in coordinating the county's PIO Network, including scheduling meetings and providing training opportunities.
- Monitor media for trending stories and provide news clips to senior leadership.
- Provide analysis and reports of media trends and engagements to management.
- Participate in training to stay current on crisis communications skills and strategies.
Requirements
- Minimum of an Associate's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Media Relations, Mass Communications, Marketing, or a related field, or significant related experience.
- For Communications Associate II: BS Degree in a related field with three years of experience, or MS, MA, or MBA with two years of experience.
- Bilingual skills are highly preferred.
- Professional accreditation or certification in a related field is highly preferred.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in public communications or related fields.
- Knowledge of crisis communication strategies.
Benefits
- Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Florida Retirement System (FRS)
- Wellness program with free gym access
- 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days, and 16 paid vacation days in the first year.
