Press Coordinator 2

JOB SUMMARY

Develops, coordinates, and executes strategic media strategies, assists principals and administrators with crisis communications, and coordinates events and coverage with local, statewide, and national press. Generates articles for internal and external publications and works to enhance HISD’s public image through strategic partnerships with news media and community news outlets.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinates and executes strategic media strategies, including but not limited to development of press releases, coordination of press events, pitching stories to local and national media, using social media, writing articles for internal and external publications, and talking points, monitoring press coverage for accuracy, and responding to inaccurate statements.
• Directs development of news stories, through the writing and reporting of press releases and the planning and execution of news events, including school district programs and employees for publication and broadcast in the media.
• Fosters good relations with the media, providing interviews and information. Oversees media interviews with district staff and students.
• Assists principals and administrators with communications during crises and emergencies and assists in the coordination of district emergency communications.
• Executes special projects of high priority to the department and the district.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

• Develops group and public-facing presentations incorporating information from various departments to support the advancement of departmental initiatives.
• Provides training, support, and guidance to school-based and district staff on media relations and effective communications.
• Disseminates critical information and press releases through social media channels, including but not limited to Twitter, Facebook, and blogs.
• Develops cross-platform, data-driven communications strategies, and tracks success of strategies through data collection.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree 

*Applicants who do not meet these education qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experiences that indicate potential for success in this role.

WORK EXPERIENCE

  At least ten years working in media relations or related role.  

*Applicants who do not meet these work experience qualifications may be considered if they have a unique combination of education and work experiences that indicate potential for success in this role.

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

Microsoft Office

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

Work Leadership. Regularly provides project management or team leadership to a group of two or more employees but does not have formal supervisory responsibility. Leading and directing is restricted to monitoring work and providing guidance on escalated issues. Most of work time is spent performing many of the same duties they are leading.
 

WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT

Work is substantially complex, varied and regularly requires the selection and application of technical and detailed guidelines. Independent judgment is required to identify, select, and apply the most appropriate methods as well as interpret precedent. Position regularly makes recommendations to management on areas of significance to the department. Supervision received typically consists of providing direction on the more complex projects and new job duties and priorities.

BUDGET AUTHORITY

Compiles and organizes data and figures.

PROBLEM SOLVING

Decisions are made on both routine and non-routine matters with some latitude but are still subject to approval. Job is occasionally expected to recommend new solutions to problems and improve existing methods or generate new ideas.
 

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

Decisions have considerable impact to multiple divisions or the organization causing risks or improvements to relationships, significant efficiencies, or delays in operations, and/or significant financial gains or expenses.
Errors are serious and difficult to discover, normally involve decisions not subject to detailed review and will result in excessive costs and/or significant project delays.

COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS

Collaborate and solve problems – works with others to resolve problems, clarify or interpret complex information/policies, and provide initial screening/negotiations without approval authority. Interactions are typically with customers, senior level professional staff, and managers.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

Leads others in the resolution of highly sensitive and confidential issues on behalf of the department. Acts as a trusted advisor and becomes involved in the customer's decision-making process including presenting alternatives and information and applying persuasion and negotiation skills in the resolution of problems.
Monitors customer service standards.

WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is normally performed in a typical interior work environment but may include campus visits and local travel.  

Ability to carry and/or lift less than 45 pounds.