Job Title: Director of Public Relations
Reports To: Superintendent
Compensation: $125,000 - $130,000
TRS Classification: Classified
FLSA Status: Exempt

SUMMARY:

The Director of Public Relations is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communications strategies that elevate the Epic Charter Schools reputation. Develop messaging to engage our school community and staff, elevate the Epic Charter School brand, engage key stakeholders, and ensure consistent messaging across all channels. This role includes oversight of media relations, internal communications, digital strategy, and crisis communications. The Director of Public Relations serves as a trusted advisor to leadership, guiding the organization through both proactive storytelling and reactive issues management.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
• 7+ years of professional experience in communications, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in crisis communications and media relations.
• Experience managing teams and multiple projects simultaneously.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• Strong judgement and ability to work calmly under pressure.
• Proven strategic thinking skills with the ability to develop and execute long-term public relations plans aligned with organizational goals.
• Strong track record of relationship building with media outlets, stakeholders, internal teams, and community partners to foster trust and collaboration.
• High level of emotional intelligence, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex internal and external dynamics.
• Deep media savvy, including experience managing press relationships, securing high-impact coverage, and effectively positioning brand messaging across multiple channels.
• Demonstrated crisis management expertise, with the ability to lead communication strategies during high-pressure or sensitive situations while protecting the organization’s reputation.
• Exceptional adaptability and resilience, thriving in fast-paced, evolving environments and remaining focused and effective under pressure or during periods of change.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

• Strong ability to read, interpret, and communicate complex information, including media content, industry reports, and regulatory documents.
• Ability to craft clear, effective messages and respond to inquiries from various audiences, including the media, stakeholders, and internal teams.
• Ability to deliver professional presentations and written communications across a range of settings, both verbally and in writing.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

• Basic math skills required

COMPUTER SKILLS:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Google applications,Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Must have a high aptitude to learn new software as necessary for the school’s business operations.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be able to pass a state-mandated background check after a conditional offer of employment is made
• Must have favorable employment references

ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL RECEIVE CONSIDERATION FOR EMPLOYMENT WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, DISABILITY, OR VETERAN STATUS.

For reasonable accommodations of a disability during the hiring process, please email Epic.hr@epiccharterschools.org. Someone will call you to discuss further.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING. OTHER DUTIES MAY BE ASSIGNED:

• Strategic Communications
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• Develop and implement a long-term communications strategy aligned with the Epic Charter Schools Five Aspirations.

• Lead brand positioning, messaging, and tone across all internal and external channels.
• Ensure consistency and clarity of the Epic Charter Schools voice across print, digital, and in-person communications.
• Media Relations
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• Cultivate relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers.

• Draft and distribute press releases, op-eds, and media kits.
• Service as primary spokesperson or prepare executives for media interviews.
• Crisis Communications
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• Create and maintain a comprehensive crisis communication plan.

• Advise leadership and staff during high-pressure situations, ensuring timely and accurate messaging.
• Manage rapid response to media inquiries during sensitive or emergent issues.
• Monitor public sentiment and media coverage, adjusting messaging as necessary.
• Content Development
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• Oversee creation of content for websites, social media, newsletters, reports, and campaigns.

• Ensure all content is accurate, compelling, and brand-aligned.
• Internal Communications
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• Develop strategies to keep employees informed, engaged, and aligned with organizational values.

• Provide talking points, FAQ’s, and updates for staff during organizational changes or crises.
• Leadership & Management
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• Lead and mentor a communications team, managing workload, performance, and professional development.

• Oversee communications budgets and contracts with vendors and consultants.