The Communications & Events Coordinator reports to the Human Resources Manager and supports the City’s internal and external messaging by developing content, managing social media, and implementing communication strategies to enhance brand image, while also overseeing all events sponsored by the City. Primary responsibilities include writing and editing content for a variety of mediums, overseeing digital platforms, managing the website, serving as the Public Information Officer, coordinating events, and strategizing and analyzing marketing plans.
- Writes and edits material content for diverse channels, including press releases, blog posts, newsletters, website copy, social media, and speeches.
- Oversees the City website. Creates/reviews/edits content for consistency and optimal visitor experience. Ensures information and photos are fresh and up-to-date.
- Creates a quarterly newsletter in a variety of media formats such as print, digital, and video.
- Manages media relations city-wide. Serves as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and builds relationships with journalists to secure coverage.
- Serves as the Public Information Officer for the City and coordinates press conferences. May be required to speak to the press regarding anything from major Public Safety incidents to exciting new projects.
- Drafts speeches for elected officials and staff for various speaking engagements.
- Represents the City at various social engagements such as Chamber of Commerce ribbon cuttings, lunches, etc.
- Manages multiple social media sites for all City departments. Monitors the online presence, creates content calendars, and engages with audiences across platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
- Designs attractive and engaging social media content to build the brand and attract more followers.
- Works with an outside marketing firm to execute comprehensive PR and marketing plans that align with City goals and brand identity.
- Tracks the effectiveness of marketing campaigns using tools like Google Analytics and presenting Key Performance Indicator reports to leadership.
- Ensure city-wide adherence to the branding images/colors/logos on all city produced materials.
- Manage the purchasing of swag for event giveaways, recruitment fairs, etc. ensuring for a consistent look.
- Coordinates and organizes promotional events, press conferences, sponsorship/donation presentations, and webinars to enhance brand visibility.
- Works with internal staff members to coordinate a variety of City-wide events including employee lunches, parties, and awards ceremonies, neighborhood Reaching Riverside events, Public Safety public relations events, fundraisers, and community events.
- Manages the archived City photos and works with photographers to keep stock photography up to date.
- May be asked to perform other duties that are not listed but are essential to the job.
Education/Training/Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, or related fields is required.
- Must have 1-3 years of experience in marketing or communications, with at least 2 years of experience managing social media/digital platforms for commercial or non-profit organizations.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Must complete within 1 year of hire the FEMA NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700, 800, 300, 400 certifications.
Competencies/Skills:
- Demonstrated success in a similar position, preferably in the public sector.
- Ability to process, prioritize and organize large and varying amounts of information with effective results.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively with elected officials, staff, the public, and the media.
- Ability to manage confidential information appropriately and professionally at all times.
- Ability to read, write, and understand the English language with proper spelling and grammar to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines with effective results.
- Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and/or with the public.
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Content Management Systems, or other relevant systems.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook and Word.
- Proficient in standard office procedures, systems and practices including the use of a computer.
- Must be punctual and timely in meeting all requirements of performance, including, but not limited to, attendance standards and work deadlines; beginning and ending assignments on time; and scheduled work breaks, where applicable.
Physical/Environmental/Other:
- Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds on an occasional basis
- Ability to work a standard Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm schedule in the office. Ability to flex work schedule to accommodate occasional off-hours events.
APPLICATIONS must be fully completed to be considered. Job offers will be calculated based on applicable experience listed on the job application. Cover letter and resume appreciated. If selected for an interview, work samples may be requested.
