Transit Communications Leader — Public Information & Media

Charlotte, North Carolina; Charlotte, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 99,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

The Senior Manager of Communications at Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) leads the agency's communications and information functions, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely messaging to customers, stakeholders, and the community. Reporting to the Director of Marketing and Communications, this role drives integrated strategies that support service delivery, build ridership, and promote public trust.

This role oversees media relations, digital communications, internal communications, and crisis

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public administration, or related field.
• Ten years of progressively responsible experience in public communications, media relations, or public information.
• Master's degree in communications, public administration, or related field.
• Experience in public-sector, transit, transportation, or regulated environment.
• Experience managing crisis communications or service disruption messaging.
• Experience overseeing digital communication platforms and content strategies.
• Demonstrated experience managing communications programs in a public-facing organization.
• Experience leading professional staff and coordinating across departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement communications strategies aligned to service priorities.
• Oversee service-related communications, including changes and disruptions.
• Lead media relations activities and support executive communications.
• Lead internal communications for employees with HR and leadership.
• Oversee digital channels and ensure accessibility and accuracy.
• Lead crisis communication during incidents with leadership.
• Coordinate messaging across departments to ensure consistency.
• Evaluate tools and innovate to improve engagement.

Skills

Public communications leadership

Media relations

Crisis & incident communication

Digital communications

Internal communications

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Content Management Systems

Social media management tools

Job description

The Senior Manager of Communications at Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) leads the agency's communications and information functions, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely messaging to customers, stakeholders, and the community. Reporting to the Director of Marketing and Communications, this role drives integrated strategies that support service delivery, build ridership, and promote public trust.

This role oversees media relations, digital communications, internal communications, and crisis