General Definition of Work
The Chief of Strategic Communications & Engagement, under minimal supervision, performs senior level work with extensive decision-making discretion overseeing all aspects of marketing, public relations, and community engagement, ensuring that communications across all platforms reflect the district's goals and values at the highest standard. This role plays an essential part in enhancing the district's public image, building strong and sustainable relationships with internal and external stakeholders, and driving alignment with the Board's Mission, Vision, Core Values, and Goals to provide an exemplary educational experience for all students. Employee is a member of the Superintendent's Executive Cabinet and performs highly advanced and supervisory work to carry out Board of Education policies under the direction of the Superintendent.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Salary/Status
PG 15/Full-time, 12 months
Reports To
Superintendent
Place of Work
The normal place of work is on the premises used by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte- Mecklenburg Schools reserves the right to require you to work at such other place(s) as it may reasonably require from time to time.
Essential Functions
Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures
Lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate assigned programs/staff in the district
Set overall communication strategy for the entire organization
Develop and implement district-wide communications strategy to engage students, families, staff, and community
Manage crisis communications, including but not limited to emergencies, safety incidents, and sensitive district issues
Lead internal communications to ensure consistent messaging across schools, departments, and staff
Oversee all external communications including media relations, press releases, and community outreach.
Often manages multiple departments (PR, marketing communications, internal communications)
Make strategic decisions about messaging and brand positioning
Develop a proactive media relations strategy to ensure the district's messages, initiatives, and achievements are consistently communicated internal and external stakeholders
Build meaningful relationships with local media, government officials, and community engagements
Oversee the preparation and distribution of press releases, media kits, and public statements to elevate the district's public profile
Develop strategy to provide high-level media training for executive leaders to ensure effective representation of the district in public forums
Cultivate relationships with civic leaders, parents, community organizations, businesses, and other key stakeholders to build lasting support for District programs and initiatives
Develop and implement strategies to build and strengthen meaningful relationships and partnerships with the district's primary stakeholders — parents and families — to support student success and community trust
Lead strategic outreach efforts that promote community involvement, including town hall meetings, forums, and other engagement events, enhancing transparency and collaboration with stakeholders
Partner with school administrators and parent organizations to design communication plans that encourage involvement in school and District decision-making
Establish partnerships with local businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies to enhance the district's presence and impact within the community
Collaborate with schools and District leadership to plan and promote events that foster community involvement and messaging that is aligned with District priorities
Coordinate feedback on the district's performance from stakeholders, including students, families, staff, community and business partners, and develop recommendations
Direct the District's branding and marketing efforts, ensuring a cohesive and compelling message that reflects the district's mission and vision
Oversee marketing campaigns that enhance public awareness of District programs, student achievements, and strategic initiatives, including academic, co-curricular, and community partnerships
Provide executive direction in the design and production of all marketing materials—both print and digital, to reflect the district's high standards and innovative spirit
Oversee District communications during crises, ensuring stakeholders receive accurate, transparent, and timely information
Lead the development and maintenance of a comprehensive crisis communication plan that outlines protocols for all emergency communications, ensuring strategic alignment and consistency
Serve as the District's primary media representative in crises, managing press conferences, interviews, and public statements to maintain public confidence and clarity
Attend regular and called meetings of the Board of Education as needed/required
Facilitate/participate in staff meetings and attend other related meetings as needed
Create an inclusive environment with positive communication/public relations
Perform related work as assigned or required
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
Comprehensive in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures of public schools
Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements applicable to public school systems
Comprehensive knowledge of public relations best practices, including media relations, press release development, and crisis communication protocols
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the proven ability to craft compelling messages for a range of diverse audiences
Demonstrated skills in digital marketing, social media strategy, and website management
Ability to oversee and guide complex, politically sensitive community processes that result in strong engagement
Ability to maintain professional and emotional control under stress
Ability to reflect appropriate response to situations, while maintaining a professional and personal demeanor
Ability to learn and use specialized tools, equipment or software related to business needs
Ability to develop and monitor an efficient budget
Ability to direct and evaluate and coach team members
Ability to implement and monitor local, state, and federal rules, guidelines, and procedures into daily business operations
Ability to communicate effectively
Ability to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationships
Ability to employ positive communication skills in all settings/mediums
Ability to problem-solve utilizing sound judgment
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school system business
Ability to develop related charts, graphs, reports, and records pertaining to school district planning and strategy
Ability to take initiative, work independently, and exercise sound judgement
Ability to conceptualize, initiate, monitor, and evaluate new and/or current programs
Demonstrated ability to perform detailed work, planning, risk assessments, and
mitigation actions
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environment
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in education, journalism, marketing, public relations, public administration, or a related area required (Master's degree preferred)
Minimum of seven (7) years' experience in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, or digital media preferred
Minimum of five (5) years' supervisory experience preferred
Equivalent combination of experience and education
Special Requirements
Possess and maintain a valid Driver's License or ability to provide own transportation
Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings
