Communications and Engagement Director

A career with Johnson County Government is more than just a job, it is an opportunity to serve a diverse and expanding community in meaningful ways. We challenge ourselves to be a different kind of government because we care deeply about our community and each other. Committed to our shared values, we provide excellent public service, seeking always to improve ourselves and our organization. We offer wonderful benefits, retirement plans, wellness incentives, a great organizational culture, and much more! If you’re searching for something more than just a job, something akin to a calling, then consider the challenge and opportunity of being a member of Johnson County Government!

Johnson County (Kansas) Government is thrilled to announce the search for a Communications & Engagement Director. This is a transformative role will lead its newly realigned Communications Department serving as the central source of County information, media dissemination and the official channel of communication between the County and its audiences. This key position will play a critical role in shaping how the County connects with its residents, stakeholders, and internal teams. This leadership position is an opportunity to build and direct a department that will drive meaningful interactions and transparency within the community.

This strategic and visionary leader will bring a proven track record in designing and executing innovative communication and community engagement strategies.  The role directs all aspects of media relations, public relations, marketing, and social media to effectively communicate the County’s policies, programs, and services while maintaining effective relationships with key organizations, stakeholders, businesses, and visitors.

About the Position

The Communications & Engagement Director will report to an Assistant County Manager and lead the direction and oversight of internal and external communications. As the department leader, the key responsibilities are as follows.

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for the Communications & Engagement Department to include policies, procedures, budget, and staffing needs to protect and enhance the Johnson County image with an increased awareness of County services.
• Establish strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders to advise and collaborate on engagement and communication strategies through customized approaches across disciplines, cultures, and departments.
• Identify and execute metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of engagement and communications efforts, providing regular KPI reporting to the Commission and County Management.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the Commission, County Management, and other leaders providing leadership and guidance on key communication decisions, developing strategic messaging regarding sensitive issues and engagement initiatives that will enhance and protect the organization’s brand.
• Advise and collaborate with County department leaders to develop marketing strategies and outreach campaigns that effectively promote services and encourage community participation.
• Oversee the creation of high quality and consistent visual content telling the story of Johnson County across all marketing channels ensuring timely and efficient execution.

Strategic Engagement & Communications Strategy

• Develop and execute short-term and long-term communication and engagement plans, adjusting for trends, public sentiment, and strategic objectives.
• Establish and manage methods for public feedback, market research, and community input to enhance engagement initiatives.
• Serve as a media liaison, building relationships and overseeing high-profile press events to enhance public awareness.
• Provide strategic leadership for crisis communication, working with emergency management teams to develop and implement rapid response plans.
• Plan, prepare, and supervise print and electronic publications, newsletters, brochures, fliers, magazine and journal articles, visual presentations, and award entries to enhance the County’s brand image for publicity and promotion.
• Manage the design, layout, navigation, and overall content of the County's official website and employee intranet; determine web policies; coordinate function and content with other approved County websites; help maintain a strong website presence with relevant content.
• Oversee the development of multi-platform campaigns, including digital, print, and social media to increase transparency and community participation.
• Directs the County’s media relations program including pitching stories, writing press releases and commentaries, media coaching, holding press briefings and conferences, and monitoring and tracking and archiving news coverage.

People & Resource Management

• Lead, supervise, and mentor the communications team, overseeing performance management, professional development, and daily operations while fostering a creative, innovative, and solution-oriented culture.
• Develop and manage the department budget including associated contracts, to ensure resources are aligned to meet strategic goals and initiatives.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a dynamic leader with a strong background in communications and a passion for developing and executing multi-disciplinary campaigns that drive change, support organizational strategic goals, and provide transparent engagement. They will have a track record for proactively translating strategic thinking into action plans and outcomes. They will have supervisory experience in leading a creative department ensuring engagement and communication efforts are effective. The ideal candidate will also have experience working in the public sector, effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously, meeting stringent deadlines while maintaining a professional demeanor during stressful situations.

Education and Experience

This position requires a bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, public administration, or a related field, with a master’s degree preferred.  14 years of progressive experience in direction, development, and management implementing strategic communication and engagement plans, preferably in a government setting, plus five (5) years of supervisory experience, with demonstrated success in leading a communications team. And preferred proficiency in digital marketing, social media management, and modern engagement technologies. A valid driver’s license is required.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary range for this position is up to $190,000 per year, dependent on qualifications and experience. The organization provides health, dental, and vision insurance; a phone allowance; paid leave; employer-provided HSA contribution; and employer-provided life insurance. Johnson County offers two retirement plans, a mandatory 6% employee participation into a defined benefit plan (KPERS); and a voluntary defined contribution plan with an employer match administered by Voya Financial, with up to a 4% match into a 401(a). Additionally, the County offers supplemental group life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and health savings accounts.

Johnson County is partnering with OMNI Human Resource Solutions’ Executive Search Team to fill this role. Please apply online through OMNI's platform. 

For more information, contact:
Stacey Cowan, Senior Search Consultant
scowan@omnihrm.com
913-653-8085