Chief Communications & Community Relations Officer

Santa Ana Unified School District; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Santa Ana Unified School District seeks a senior communications leader to plan, lead, and implement an integrated communications and community engagement strategy that advances the district's mission and student outcomes.

The role oversees the Communications and Community Relations departments, advises the Superintendent and executive leadership on risk and reputation, and builds strategic partnerships to strengthen family engagement and community trust.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• Five (5) or more years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or community engagement, including leadership experience.
• Experience in public sector or K12 education highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and implement a comprehensive, integrated communications and community engagement strategy.
• Oversee the Communications and Community Relations departments, including managers, analysts, and support staff.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the Superintendent and executive leadership on communications, community engagement, and reputational risk management.
• Lead development of strategic partnerships to strengthen family engagement, community trust, and student outcomes.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Job description

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Superintendent, and/or designee, plan, lead, and implement a comprehensive, integrated communications and community engagement strategy that advances the District's mission, Board priorities, and student outcomes; oversee the Communications and Community Relations departments; and ensure transparent, timely, and culturally responsive communication with all stakeholders. Serves as a strategic advisor to the Superintendent and executive leadership on communications, community engagement, and reputational risk management. Leads the development of strategic partnerships that strengthen family engagement, community trust, and student success outcomes. Responsibilities include executive-level leadership and supervision of communications and community engagement teams, including managers, analysts, and support staff.

Required Documents

Bachelor’s degree required; Master's degree preferred. Resume 3 Letter of Recommendation (dated within 60 days)

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• Five (5) or more years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or community engagement, including leadership experience.
• Experience in public sector or K12 education highly desirable.
• Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Valid California Driver’s License.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain vehicle insurance under the District's vehicle insurance policy.
• Personal transportation for job-related travel throughout the District.
• Bilingual (English-Spanish) highly desirable.