Chief of Community Engagement & Communications

Stafford County Government; Stafford (VA); On-site; USD 127,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

Stafford County Government seeks an accomplished director to lead its community engagement and communications function. The role shapes how a fast-growing Virginia community communicates, connects, and builds trust with residents, employees, businesses, media, and partners.

The executive will listen as well as inform, ensure a clear and credible voice across departments, and coordinate with elected officials and leadership to advance public engagement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, or public relations and 6 years in public relations.
• Local government experience preferred.
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking for executive-level communications.

Responsibilities

• Directs the county's comprehensive communications and engagement program with transparency.
• Develops strategic communications plans supporting Board priorities and leadership.
• Oversees media relations, FOIA requests, and crisis communications.
• Manages customer service and engagement operations to improve access to services.
• Coordinates with officials and partners to identify communication needs and issues.
• Produces multimedia content across websites, social media, and publications.

Skills

Public information laws

Social media

Branding

Crisis communications

Video production

Public relations

Community engagement

News gathering

Education

Bachelor's degree in English, communications, or public relations

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Access

Adobe Creative Suite

Drupal

WordPress

Job description

Stafford County Government seeks an accomplished director to lead its community engagement and communications function. The role shapes how a fast-growing Virginia community communicates, connects, and builds trust with residents, employees, businesses, media, and partners.

The executive will listen as well as inform, ensure a clear and credible voice across departments, and coordinate with elected officials and leadership to advance public engagement initiatives.