ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Deputy General Manager
General Manager
POSITION SUMMARY
The Communications Manager is responsible for developing and managing integrated communications programs directed toward multiple stakeholder audiences, including customers, board members, employees, industry thought leaders, state and local leaders, and local and national media. The purpose of this position is to ensure that all formal internal and external communications are accurate, timely, and effectively integrated with TRA’s overall messaging strategy. Additionally, the Communications Manager is expected to serve as the “voice” of the organization.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive strategic communications program that supports the Authority’s mission, organizational strategy, and key messaging objectives. Establish and manage centralized internal and external communications processes to effectively communicate the Authority’s vision, priorities, programs, projects, and initiatives to employees, customers, Board members, industry partners, elected officials, regulators, and other stakeholders.
2. Develop, maintain, and coordinate crisis communications, emergency public information, and issues management programs. Monitor emerging issues, misinformation, public sentiment, and stakeholder concerns related to Authority operations and initiatives, and develop proactive communication strategies and response plans in coordination with operational staff, executive leadership, regulatory agencies, and emergency management partners.
3. Develop and oversee digital communications, social media, website, and emerging technology strategies. Monitor audience engagement and public sentiment; evaluate and implement communications technologies and tools; and ensure all digital platforms remain accurate, current, accessible, and consistent with organizational messaging, branding, and governance standards.
4. Manage media relations activities, including serving as a primary organizational spokesperson when appropriate, coordinating responses to media inquiries, developing media materials, monitoring media coverage, preparing media analysis reports, and coaching Authority representatives in preparation for interviews and public appearances.
5. Develop, manage, and maintain stakeholder engagement and public outreach programs that promote transparency, build public trust, and enhance public understanding of Authority operations, capital projects, regulatory responsibilities, water conservation initiatives, sustainability practices, and long-term strategic priorities.
6. Assist the Manager of Governmental Relations by developing and implementing communications strategies that support legislative, regulatory, intergovernmental, and stakeholder engagement initiatives and strengthen relationships with governmental entities, industry organizations, and community partners.
7. Develop and administer processes for receiving, tracking, coordinating, and responding to public inquiries, complaints, comments, and requests for information. Analyze trends and recurring issues and provide recommendations to management regarding stakeholder concerns, communication opportunities, and organizational responsiveness.
8. Direct the development, design, production, and distribution of Authority publications, newsletters, presentations, reports, electronic media, graphic content, and other communication materials. Assist with executive communications, including speeches, presentations, scripts, Board and Committee meeting materials, advisory committee communications, and other executive messaging assignments.
9. Represent the Authority through public presentations, briefings, community outreach activities, industry events, and stakeholder meetings. Assist with the planning, coordination, and logistical support of Board meetings, Committee meetings, special events, and other public-facing activities as assigned.
10. Manage assigned personnel and resources, including hiring, training, coaching, performance management, work planning, procedure development, budget administration, and the continuous improvement of communications programs and services.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Regularly has full personnel management responsibilities, including approving time, selection, discipline, grievances, and formal performance evaluations for the position’s direct and indirect reports.
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Responsible for developing group-level budget and for tracking expenditures to confirm conformance with the same.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in journalism, strategic communication, marketing, English, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
EXPERIENCE
Minimum five to seven years of progressive public relations or corporate communications experience. The ideal candidate will have experience with public utilities, public infrastructure, environmental services, governmental organizations, or highly regulated industries, and a successful record of working with executive management, boards and commissions, citizens, and community groups.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Valid Texas driver’s license. Professional certifications in the areas of communications or public relations are a plus.
KNOWLEDGE
The candidate should be proficient in all basic Microsoft applications, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, plus the Adobe Creative Suite.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Proven track record of developing and executing corporate communications plans and messaging strategies. Strong writing (copy, press releases) and media relations skills (trade press, local and national media). Excellent project planning and management skills with an ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and deadlines while maintaining the quality of work. Strong relationship-building and communication skills. Understanding of social media channel activation and community management. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. In-depth understanding of journalistic/AP style. Web development skills for maintaining the website through planning, designing, writing, editing, updating, and ensuring the information on the website is current and accurate. Strong PowerPoint skills. Strong leadership skills. Some technical/scientific aptitude is required to describe complex processes. Strong presentation skills. Ability to work well with a wide variety of cross-functional areas, including engineering, environmental science, and finance. APR Accreditation is a plus. Intellectual curiosity, creativity, a collaborative spirit, and a knack for written storytelling will drive success in this position. Ability to take photographs.
GUIDANCE RECEIVED
Typically receives general direction about assignments and work results to be attained. Requires judgment to determine which methods apply and what data/information should be considered. The position must think through how issues can be addressed within existing policies and procedures, and may assist others with more complex work methods and problems.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Working conditions include some fieldwork to prepare articles and take photos, and will require some travel. Some locations may not be accessible by vehicle and require working at various elevations. Expect some exposure to chemicals and waste material when working on-site at TRA water and wastewater treatment facilities.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Office equipment, including a personal computer, various printers, and a camera.