Communications Manager - HHS

The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services is seeking a versatile and proactive Communications Manager to join our team. The ideal candidate will be skilled in a variety of external communications functions, including media relations, content creation, website/graphic design, and strategic messaging. The role requires someone who is adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Housing, Community Development, and Homeless Services will be a main focus of this communications position; However, other programs under the Department of Health and Human Services may also be covered as assigned.

1. Content Creation
* Develop and write clear, compelling content for various platforms, including press releases, newsletters, blog posts, and social media.
* Create engaging, concise content for external communications.
* Develop and implement culturally- and linguistically responsive communications protocols and procedures, including both proactive and responsive (i.e., emergency) communications, for a variety of audiences.
* Partner with HHS and County colleagues to ensure consistency across communication channels, minimize duplication of effort, and ensure alignment with County communications requirements and guidelines and expectations for notification of media outreach to the HHS Director.
* Partner with internal and external subject matter experts to ensure accuracy of content.

2. Media Relations
* Build and maintain relationships with media contacts and journalists.
* Draft and distribute press releases and media kits.
* Monitor media coverage and compile reports on media activity.

3. Strategic Messaging
* Collaborate with Health and Human Service Program Administrators to develop and implement communication strategies that align with core values and organizational goals.
* Ensure consistency in messaging across all channels and platforms

4. Social Media & Website Management
* Develop and manage social media content and campaigns across various platforms.
* Monitor social media trends and engage with the audience to enhance online presence and knowledge.
* Update and manage various website content.

5. Brand Management
* Help maintain and promote brand identity and voice for Your Way Home, Homes For All, Home Repair programs, Community Development, and other HHS program brands as assigned.
* Assist in the creation of marketing, education, and promotional materials to support brand consistency.

Position may require other duties as assigned. Position requires frequent travel throughout the County, and an ability to cultivate new partnerships and nurture existing partnerships, as well as to occasionally provide availability outside of regular business hours as needed.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty 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.

* Completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university, preferably in the field of Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field. Master's degree is preferred.
* 2-5 years of experience in a communications role, with a proven track record in content creation, media relations, and strategic messaging. Experience in field of Housing & Community Development preferred.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail.
* Proficiency in social media platforms and tools, as well as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
* Strong organizational and project management skills.
* Familiarity with graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) and content management systems (e.g., WordPress) is a plus.
* Valid Driver's License.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.