Director of Communications - Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Job Description for Director of Communications · Position Title: Director of Communications      · Job Status: Full Time Reports To: Superintendent · FLSA Status: Exempt Amount of Travel: Frequent Travel · Classification: Classified/ Certified Level: District Level Position · D ...

Job description

Job Description for Director of Communications

Position Title: Director of Communications     

Job Status: Full Time Reports To: Superintendent

FLSA Status: Exempt Amount of Travel: Frequent Travel

Classification: Classified/ Certified Level: District Level Position

Date Created: January Work Schedule: 240 Days

Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000 (Experience and certification will be considered.)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director of Communications serves as the chief communications strategist for the school district and is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive communications program that strengthens trust, transparency, and engagement among students, staff, families, and the broader community. This role ensures the district's vision, mission, and priorities are clearly and consistently communicated while proactively managing internal and external messaging.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Strategic Communications & Branding

• Develop and implement a district-wide communications strategy aligned with the Board of Education's priorities and the Superintendent's vision.
• Serve as the primary architect of the district's brand, ensuring consistent messaging, tone, and visual identity across all platforms.
• Translate complex educational initiatives, data, and decisions into clear, accessible messages for diverse audiences.

Media & Public Relations

• Serve as the district's primary media liaison; build and maintain positive relationships with local, regional, and state media outlets.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and official statements.
• Prepare the Superintendent and district leadership for media interviews, public presentations, and crisis communications.

Internal Communications

• Design and manage internal communication systems that keep staff informed, aligned, and engaged.
• Collaborate with principals and department leaders to ensure consistent messaging across schools and departments.
• Support district initiatives by developing talking points, newsletters, and staff communications.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead community outreach efforts to strengthen partnerships with families, businesses, faith-based organizations, and civic leaders.
• Oversee communication related to Board of Education meetings, including agendas, summaries, and public-facing materials.
• Support district initiatives such as bond campaigns, legislative advocacy, and major events through strategic messaging.

Digital & Social Media

• Oversee the district website, social media platforms, and digital communications.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and engaging content that reflects district priorities and celebrates student and staff success.
• Monitor public sentiment and engagement metrics to inform communication strategies.

Crisis & Issues Management

• Develop and maintain crisis communication plans.
• Serve as a key member of the district's crisis response team, providing timely, accurate, and transparent communication during emergencies or sensitive situations.
• Anticipate potential issues and proactively manage reputational risk.

Other Duties

• Demonstrated willingness to teach an elective course at the secondary level as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the efficient and effective operation of the Watson Chapel School District.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

• Strong understanding of public education and school district operations.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and political awareness.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Data-informed decision-making skills to assess communication effectiveness.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Education, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in communications, public relations, or media relations.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing strategic communication plans.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• Valid Arkansas driver's license.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Communications, Educational Leadership, Public Administration, or related field.
• Experience working in a school district, public sector, or similarly complex organization.
• Experience with crisis communications and public engagement in high-visibility environments.

COMPUTER SKILLS:

• Experience with Microsoft Office, Google, and other relevant systems.

EVALUATION/ PERFORMANCE REVIEW CRITERIA:

• The Director of Communications reports directly to the Superintendent of Schools or designee.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. This position requires frequent standing, walking, handling, and reaching.