Public Relations Manager

$78,963 - $103,606/Yr

Pottawattamie County - Council Bluffs, IA

Full-time - Mid Level

Council Bluffs, IA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

Pottawattamie County is seeking a dynamic and experienced Public Relations Manager to develop and administer the county's communication program. This role involves creating communication strategies, managing media and public relations, and disseminating information related to the county. The position aims to enhance public awareness of county services and ensure effective communication across various platforms.

Responsibilities

• Direct, lead and implement communication strategies for the county.
• Manage communications including public speaking, media relations, website updates, social networking, print and broadcast communication, digital communication, etc.
• Assist in preparing and creating county related material for public promotion of programs and services, including flyers and posters.
• Seek avenues to strengthen the county's effectiveness of communication.
• Generate communication strategies to effectively create public awareness of county services and programs.
• Serve as the county's brand manager, ensuring all communication is presented professionally and follows the county's brand guidelines.
• Work closely with all departments on department specific needs regarding their communication and public relations.
• Serve as the primary resource for information from the Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors.
• Facilitate County Board community visibility and engagement.
• Promote relationships with key business partners, cities and citizens within the county.
• Attend meetings and events within the county.
• Monitor and respond to community feedback.
• Analyze extent of public understanding of county programs and business and determine how to educate and communicate regarding such.
• Assist with the county's online presence including social media, website, etc.
• Arrange press conferences, statements, interviews and appearances with county officials.
• Provide guidance and strategies to county officials on effectively presenting message and/or information.
• Assist with internal strategies as needed.
• Perform other duties as directed or as the situation dictates.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism or related field.
• At least five (5) years of direct work experience in public relations, media relations, communications work including writing, editing and public speaking, government relations or spokesperson responsibilities for a complex public or private organization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and familiar with Microsoft 365.
• Valid driver's license at the time of hire and maintain it throughout the course of employment.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize and effectively manage multiple responsibilities.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to work with little or no supervision.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, county employees and other governmental agencies and governmental officials.

Benefits

• Wellness program
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan