Civic Communications Leader & Strategy Director

City of Indianapolis & Marion County; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The City-County Council seeks a Chief Communications Officer to serve as the senior communications advisor and lead the development and execution of communications strategies for legislative, fiscal, constituent-service, and organizational priorities. You will oversee branding, media relations, and public engagement, acting as spokesperson as designated.

You’ll supervise the Public Information Officer and collaborate with Council leadership, staff, city agencies, media, and community

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree plus relevant professional experience required.
• 3+ years in strategic communications, media relations, or public affairs.

Responsibilities

• Lead engagement with internal and external stakeholders to support Council-driven policies.
• Develop and implement strategic communications plans aligned with priorities and budget actions.
• Serve as the Council's official media spokesperson when designated and prepare Councilors for media engagement.
• Coordinate press conferences with City departments and agencies to ensure consistent messaging.
• Draft and edit all public communications, including news releases, statements, and digital content.
• Establish editorial and accessibility standards across all communications.
• Supervise the Public Information Officer and communications staff.
• Support Councilors' public appearances and community engagement activities.
• Lead emergency communications with rapid-response protocols.

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, public affairs, marketing, public administration, political science, telecommunications, or closely related discipline

Job description

The City-County Council seeks a Chief Communications Officer to serve as the senior communications advisor and lead the development and execution of communications strategies for legislative, fiscal, constituent-service, and organizational priorities. You will oversee branding, media relations, and public engagement, acting as spokesperson as designated.

You’ll supervise the Public Information Officer and collaborate with Council leadership, staff, city agencies, media, and community