ADC PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Position Information

Class Code: P003N

Grade: GS12

FLSA Status: EXEMPT

Salary Range: $69,776.00 - $111,293.00

Summary

The Public Information Officer, also referred to as Communications Officer, for the Arkansas Department of Corrections is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Department's public­ facing communications, as well as coordinating internal communications across the Department. The Communications officer leads the Departments communications strategy, promotes the work of the Department of Correction through various communications channels (including social media, earned media, and the Departments websites), and maintains a positive public image of the Department of Corrections through brand management and stewardship. The Communications officer leads the Communication team and develops and oversees scope of work for employees and contractors that may be tasked or hired to assist with public relations needs. The position works under the direction of the Board of Corrections and maintains a close working relationship with the Department Secretary and Division Directors of the Agencies and other members of leadership within the Department of Corrections.

Functions

Collaborate with leadership to develop strategic communication plans and craft messages that align with the Department's goals. Create public relations campaigns, press releases, speeches, and social media content to keep the public informed about the Department's activities, initiatives, and achievements. During an emergency or incident, be a critical part of the Incident Management Team, charged with ensuring that the public has timely and accurate information. Create or oversee the creation of promotional and informative materials targeted at both internal and external audiences. Manage and update the Department websites ensuring that the copy is accurate and engaging. Attend speaking engagements and host special events on behalf of the Department. Ensure that all Department materials have consistent and positive messaging and branding. Conduct quality control on all communications. Supervise and manage a team of communication staff. Foster and develop relationships with media outlets and other agencies both internal and external. Maintain contact information for the media and stakeholders. Facilitate press releases, send letters to stakeholders, and prepare speeches for public announcements about the Department's milestones, breakthroughs or correction concerns. Verify the accuracy of all information disseminated. Monitor media reports for accuracy and make corrections as needed. Track engagement across various platforms and make data-driven decisions. Perform or supervise the performance of special projects, and presentations to include video and print media. Stay abreast of news, current events and emerging trends in corrections and publish to leadership and the public as appropriate. Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in the field of communication. Perform other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Advanced knowledge of public relations, media relations, and modern journalistic principles at an executive level; High-level expertise in disseminating information through various media channels, including print, electronic, and social media; Strategic oversight in developing and implementing web content and advanced social media strategies; Expert proficiency in advanced writing techniques, data analysis, and preparation of high-impact promotional materials; Executive competency in speech drafting, public speaking, social media strategy, press releases, and sophisticated website content management; Deep familiarity with software and web applications for content creation and editing; Understanding of legislative processes, communication laws, and governmental operations relevant to high-level communication roles; Proven ability to manage and execute comprehensive communication campaigns, event planning and ongoing media relations; Exceptional skill in representing the Department's high-profile functions and reporting complex informational materials; Expertise in evaluating communication effectiveness and making strategic decisions in critical situations.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education of a bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, public relations, marketing or public administration plus 5 years of experience in communications operations, public relations or journalism including 3 years in a supervisory capacity. Ten years of experience with Five years in a supervisory capacity may substitute for education. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

Must possess a valid Arkansas driver's license.