About Company
The City of Annapolis is more than just a capital city; it’s a vibrant, historic community nestled on the Chesapeake Bay. Our government is dedicated to serving its diverse population, preserving our rich heritage, and fostering a progressive, sustainable future for all residents and visitors. We pride ourselves on transparent governance, community engagement, and a commitment to public service. Joining the City of Annapolis means becoming a part of a team that works diligently to enhance the quality of life, maintain public safety, and ensure the efficient operation of municipal services. We believe in clear, consistent communication to keep our citizens informed and engaged in the decisions that shape our city.
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Job Description
The City of Annapolis is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Public Information Officer (PIO) to lead our strategic communications efforts. This pivotal role is responsible for shaping the public perception of the City, disseminating critical information to residents, media, and stakeholders, and managing communications during routine operations and emergency situations. The PIO will serve as the primary spokesperson for the City, working closely with the Mayor’s Office, City Council, department heads, and various community groups to ensure a unified and coherent message. This position demands exceptional communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment. You will be instrumental in developing and executing comprehensive communication plans, managing media relations, producing engaging digital content, and fostering positive community relations. If you are passionate about public service, possess a strong background in public relations or journalism, and thrive on connecting communities through effective communication, we encourage you to apply and become a key voice for our historic city.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary spokesperson and media liaison for the City of Annapolis, responding to media inquiries and arranging interviews.
- Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to inform the public about City programs, services, initiatives, and policies.
- Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, official statements, and speeches for the Mayor and other City officials.
- Manage the City's official social media channels, website content, and other digital communication platforms to ensure accuracy and engagement.
- Coordinate public outreach events, press conferences, and community meetings.
- Act as the lead communicator during emergency situations, ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination to the public and media.
- Monitor media coverage, analyze public opinion, and provide strategic advice to City leadership.
- Collaborate with City departments to identify communication needs and develop targeted messaging.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
- Proven experience (minimum 4 years) in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably within a government or non-profit setting.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a strong portfolio of published work (press releases, articles, digital content).
- Demonstrated ability to serve as a confident and articulate public spokesperson.
- Proficiency in social media management platforms, content management systems (CMS), and digital analytics tools.
- Strong crisis communication and issue management skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in a relevant field.
- Experience working directly with elected officials or high-level public sector leadership.
- Proficiency in graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) and video editing.
- Bilingual proficiency (especially Spanish) is a plus.
- Familiarity with the Annapolis community and local media landscape.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Participation in a robust retirement plan.
- Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays).
- Life insurance and disability benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Work-life balance in a supportive public service environment.
- Contribution to a vibrant and historic community.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications are attached. We look forward to reviewing your application and learning how your skills can contribute to the City of Annapolis.
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