Deputy Director of Communications, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Position Description

As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. Minneapolis has a large variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose-serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.

The Communications department works strategically to provide information to a variety of internal and external audiences. The work includes proactive and reactive media relations, strategic communications, internal communications, cultural and community broadcast media, web and social media strategy, crisis communications, multi-media production, government access TV channel management, graphic design and brand standards, employee training including communications skills instruction for City leadership and staff, and cable franchise management.

The Deputy Director will assist the Director, Communications in the development and implementation of the Communication Department’s plans, programs and initiatives and work to coordinate, develop, analyze and assist the enterprise in communicating to public audiences, internal City staff and other key stakeholders. This position will play a key role in helping the enterprise understand how best to interface with the Communications department to execute strategic work aligned with overall enterprise priorities.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with enterprise leadership, including department and division heads, to develop and execute communications objectives, strategies and tactics.
  
• Support the Director in the formulation of large-scale strategic plans, department policies, staffing decisions and organizational structure while meeting daily and weekly deadlines of ongoing enterprise work.
  
• Assist in the preparation and management of the department’s annual budget, monitor expenditures, and authorize budget modifications.
  
• Supervise the ongoing development and growth of the City’s cultural and community-based media channels, digital communications work and visual identity.
  
• Review and analyze performance data, objectives and metrics to provide continuous improvement.
  
• Participate in executive level decisions and policy setting within the department and the City Coordinator’s Office.
  
• Represent the department with City of Minneapolis Elected and Appointed Officials as well as officials from other public and private agencies.
  
• Directly supervise staff assigned, develop work assignments, resolve problems and review work products. Conduct annual performance reviews for assigned staff.
  
  WORKING CONDITIONS: Normal
  
  

Required Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Public Affairs, a closely related field or equivalent

Minimum Experience

Five years of progressively responsible experience in Communications, Journalism or a related field in the Public or Private Sector

Equivalency:
An equivalent combination of education and experience closely related to the duties of the position MAY be considered.

Required:
An updated resume is required to be considered for this position.

Background Check:
The City has determined that a criminal background check and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.

*This position is not represented by a bargaining unit. This is an appointed position.

Interview Selection:
The hiring authority reserves the right to determine the maximum number of candidates to review and interview
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the City of Minneapolis and an understanding of its government.
• Knowledge of constantly evolving goals and challenges.
• Knowledge of communications, media, and public affairs.
• Knowledge and understanding of the most effective communication mediums and vehicles.
• Knowledge of best practices in public relations, media relations, social and interactive media, web, and other communications and technology.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills; outstanding people skills; good analytical skills.
• Excellent presentation skills; and exceptional organizational and decision-making skills.
• Ability to think strategically and manage diverse and multiple functions.
• Ability to lead and supervise the work of others.
• Ability to influence top level executives and elected officials.
• Ability to anticipate potential ramifications of choices/decisions made and advise in advance of having to take action.
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations are all a must in the position.
• Balance the need of strategic thinking and direction with the day-to-day management of the division.
• Work proactively to achieve goals and objectives through planning, process improvement, collaboration, and innovation.
• Understand when to be a facilitator, when to be a mentor, and how to delegate effectively.
• Have a high degree of integrity and a strong work ethic.
• Believe in the idea of public service and serving the citizens of the city through excellent customer service and cost-effective service delivery.

Closing Date/Time: 2/6/2023 11:59 PM Central