Public Policy & Communications Director

Spokane, County of (WA); Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Spokane County is seeking a Communications & Public Policy Director to lead county-wide communications, public relations, and community engagement initiatives on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners and executive leadership.

The role provides strategic guidance on complex public concerns, coordinates policy communications, and acts as a spokesperson as needed. Collaboration with lobbyists, policy advisors, and regional partners is essential to inform initiatives and inform the public.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Marketing, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree is preferred but not required.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in communications or public policy.

Responsibilities

• Plans, develops, and implements County-wide marketing, communications, public relations, and community engagement strategies.
• Provides strategic advice to elected officials and executive leadership.
• Leads development of policy-related communication materials for internal and external audiences.
• Coordinates proactive community engagement to build transparency and trust.
• Serves as spokesperson and manages media inquiries and public information requests.
• Develops and disseminates fact sheets, newsletters, briefings, and digital content.
• Builds strong relationships with media, partners, and regional agencies.
• Leads engagement efforts for campaigns, listening sessions, and feedback collection.
• Develops branding standards and manages external website content.
• Provides staff training in messaging and media relations.
• Directs emergency information efforts during county-wide incidents.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Public relations

Policy communication

Media relations

Public speaking

Engagement strategies

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Written communication

Crisis communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

PowerPoint

Visio

Job description

Spokane County is seeking a Communications & Public Policy Director to lead county-wide communications, public relations, and community engagement initiatives on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners and executive leadership.

The role provides strategic guidance on complex public concerns, coordinates policy communications, and acts as a spokesperson as needed. Collaboration with lobbyists, policy advisors, and regional partners is essential to inform initiatives and inform the public.