Communications Director

at  City of Seattle

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Office of Economic Development’s (OED) core purpose is to shape the future of Seattle’s economy and make it more equitable, prosperous, and competitive. We do this work by leading projects and making investments that open up access to economic opportunities, reduce the racial wealth gap, and encourage innovation and growth.
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Communications Director to lead our efforts in shaping and sharing OED’s story. In this role, you will guide external communications to ensure clear, consistent, and compelling messaging about our work across various channels, staying attuned to the needs of stakeholders and the evolving media landscape. Internally, you will partner with leadership to keep our team informed and engaged, fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration. Additionally, you will lead and mentor our communications team, overseeing the execution of key initiatives that drive the department’s success. If you’re a proactive leader with a passion for storytelling, we want to hear from you!

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS IN:

• Top-notch communication skills in both verbal and written formats; experienced in delivering quality content under time constraints while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong understanding of City communications policies and procedures, and where interdepartmental collaboration can help meet goals.
• Serving as a media liaison is a plus; must have experience developing content for engagement with media (e.g., talking points, press releases, responses to questions / inquiries).
• Knowing how to use data to support decision-making in a communications context.
• Strong people management skills with progressive leadership experience, including supporting staff growth, holding accountability for performance, maintaining clear lines of responsibility, and building a welcoming, inclusive team culture.
• Understands the external environment in which OED operates, including political dynamics and key relationships.

A PASSION FOR:

• Building a “learning culture": espousing a growth mindset for both self and team, seeking opportunities for professional development, and supporting the team in fostering their growth potential.
• Direct and respectful communication: giving and receiving feedback, sharing relevant information and situational intelligence, and granting grace to others.
• Leading with an equity lens: advancing OED’s guiding principle that an inclusive economy is a more prosperous and competitive economy; with a deep commitment to the principles of the City’s Race and Social Justice Initiative.
• Taking a balanced approach: bringing a sense of urgency when appropriate and prioritizing to keep workloads manageable.
  Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Please refer the Job description for details