24-25 Chief Communications Officer

Job Summary: The Chief Communications Officer is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive communication strategy to promote and enhance the reputation and public perception of the Somerville Public School District. This Chief Communication Officer oversees all internal and external communications, media relations, crisis communications, and community engagement initiatives to ensure consistent messaging and branding across all platforms. The Chief Communications Officer also plays a prominent role in creating, designing, and promoting the Strategic Plan for the district and serves on the Superintendent's Executive Cabinet.

Minimum Qualification:

• Bachelor's degree in education, communications, business, or other related field required; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years relevant experience in communications efforts, education, leadership, and/or business management efforts
• Experience working directly with elected officials, superintendents, district leaders, school board members, municipal management, non-profits and community representatives, strongly preferred

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Experience with and demonstrated knowledge of communication strategy, public relations, crisis communications, and brand management;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate and collaborate with a wide variety of constituents;
• Ability to successfully create and manage stakeholder relationships;
• Demonstrated facilitative leadership and problem solving;
• Experience and comfort with a variety of social media platforms and website management
• Experience in multilingual settings
• Multilingual candidates strongly preferred

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communication plan that aligns with the district's Strategic Plan.
• Advise the Superintendent and Executive Cabinet on communication strategies and initiatives.
• Support school leaders in aligning their School Improvement Plans to the Strategic Plan.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the district and serves as a public relations consultant to other district leaders.
• Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Prepare and distribute press releases, media advisories, and press kits.
• Organize and coordinate media events, press conferences, and interviews.
• Develop and manage effective internal communication channels to keep staff informed and engaged.
• Create and distribute internal newsletters, memos, and announcements.
• Oversee the production of high-quality content for the district's website, social media platforms, and other communication channels.
• Ensure consistent messaging and branding in all external communications.
• Coordinate with departments to promote district initiatives, programs, and achievements.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans and protocols.
• Serve as the lead communication officer during crises, emergencies, and other critical situations.
• Foster positive relationships with parents, students, community leaders, and stakeholders.
• Organize and participate in community events, town hall meetings, and public forums.
• Manage partnerships with community organizations and businesses.
• Ensure the district's brand identity is consistent across all platforms and materials.
• Oversee the design and production of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and promotional videos.
• Lead and manage the Communications Department team.
• Provide professional development and training for staff members.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent of Schools.

Terms of Employment:

Schedule: Full Year (260 days)

Union Affiliation: Non Union

Compensation: Salary starting at $130,000 and commensurate with experience

Competitive benefits package

Position report to: Superintendent of Schools or Designee

The Somerville Public School does not discriminate in its programs, facilities or employment of educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' group or interferes with their ability to learn or work.