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Communications & Engagement Manager

Organization: Livingston Educational Service Agency

Location: Howell, MI

Pay Range: Scale starting at $85,000 or commensurate with experience, plus full benefits

Summary:

The Agency is on the quest for a dynamic Communications & Engagement Manager to lead and execute innovative communication strategies that enhance engagement with both employees and the public while bolstering a positive image within the community. This role demands a visionary who will craft compelling narratives that echo the Agency's vision and mission, catering to the diverse needs, motivators, and perspectives of various audiences. The ideal candidate will play a pivotal role in elevating employee and partner district consciousness about the Agency's essential services and fostering robust engagement, all while amplifying the Agency’s brand in a favorable light. They will be the ultimate relationship-builder, creating networks and connecting the dots within both the Agency and the districts we serve.

The successful candidate will have unquestioned ethics and integrity and will exemplify an innovative spirit focused on finding a way to say “yes” rather than “no”.

Position Responsibilities:

Execute dynamic internal communication plans that empower each employee, providing them with the essential tools to thrive and promoting an in-depth understanding of the Agency's fundamental services.
Strategically integrate cutting-edge technology and information systems to streamline communication across all channels, ensuring a cohesive and unified messaging experience.
Develop and implement communication protocols, nurturing a culture of consistency among Agency leaders and staff, while encouraging a transparent and reciprocal exchange of ideas.
Produce varied and captivating communication assets across a multitude of platforms, including podcasts, print, video, web content, multimedia presentations, special events, and other interactive experiences.
Launch an innovative external-facing website designed for impactful, real-time storytelling and departmental showcases that elevate the Agency's vision and mission. Simultaneously, transform the intranet into an indispensable resource tailored for every user, boosting functionality and user experience.
Strategically integrate cutting-edge technology and information systems to streamline communication across all channels, ensuring a cohesive and unified messaging experience.
Kick-start awareness campaigns that align with the Agency's goal of championing educational excellence and narrowing the educational opportunity gap in Livingston County.
The Agency partners with The Donovan Group for crisis communication. This position will work closely with The Donovan Group to ensure effective management of crisis communication needs.
Develop and disseminate high-quality press releases that effectively communicate the Agency's initiatives, programs, and accomplishments to the public, media outlets, and stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the Agency’s goals and messaging strategies.
Continuously monitor and adapt to the evolving landscape of communications, embracing innovative strategies and trends that span print, digital, and social mediums, ensuring the Agency remains at the forefront of communication excellence.
Attend and participate in LESA Board of Education Meetings and other meetings as appropriate.
Visit in-person with staff and programs to connect, inspire, and help spread the word about the great people employed at the Agency and the great things they do on a daily basis to support and advance student learning.
Maintain own personal competence through participation in LESA, regional, or state sponsored in-service activities for the purpose of ensuring the effectiveness of communication efforts.
Subject to invitation by the Superintendent, function as a member of the Superintendent’s Executive Cabinet performing any and all other duties as assigned by the Superintendent for the purpose of ensuring efficient and effective functioning of LESA operations.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in related field.
Experience in K-12 communications and/or public relations preferred.
An understanding for and an appreciation for the purpose, role, and function of an Educational Service Agency.
Background in leading internal and/or employee communications efforts.
Experience in employee communications.
Experience with website design and maintenance.
Experience creating and dispensing content, via media outlets, web communications, and social media platforms.

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities (SKA) Required:

Excellent listening, writing, grammar, and editing skills.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in both verbal and written form.
Knowledge of communication and marketing techniques, including print, video, web, marketing and public information strategies, and the ability to develop effective plans utilizing all aspects of a strong communications program.
Proficiency in the use of various social media platforms (X, Facebook, Instagram, etc.).
Marketing and/or graphic design skills; preferably Canva.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with students, staff, and the community.
Ability and willingness to work under pressure and under tight timelines as well as during emergency situations, and the ability to provide calm interface with internal and external audiences during critical situations.
Ability to effectively present information, listen, and respond to questions from groups of administrators, staff, students, parents, and the general public.
Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations, such as the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Hiring Solutions LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Hiring Solutions LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.