Director of Communications, Georgia Department of Economic Development (Atlanta, GA)

Director of Communications
Georgia Department of Economic Development

The Director of Communications will oversee all internal and external communications for the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), which encompasses global commerce, international trade, tourism, film, the Centers of Innovation program and the Georgia Council for the Arts.  The Director of Communications will function as primary point of contact for media, and in conjunction with GDEcD’s public relations agency of record, create and manage an integrated internal and external communications strategy for the Department.

Key responsibilities include:

• Elevate the perception of Georgia as a global economic powerhouse and destination of choice to key business and travel decision-makers that include consultants, operations/real estate brokers, upper management (directors, project managers, and VPs), C-level executives, tour operators, etc. 
• Facilitate cross-business unit programs and campaigns, and creatively use public relations, events, social media, online venues, thought leadership, etc., to drive new investment and jobs in Georgia.
• Manage two direct reports who are responsible for pitching stories, developing content (talking points, articles, case studies, bylines, etc.) as well as public relations associated with major tradeshows and events.
• Serve as the primary GDEcD representative and spokesperson for the media and develop other spokespersons as necessary.
• Lead annual strategic planning sessions and develop the external communications plans and processes to measure and assess effectiveness of tactics and campaigns.
• Establish strong, positive relationships with GDEcD teams as well as others who are in a position to positively impact the department’s public image.
• Work with external stakeholders (state agencies, Office of the Governor, economic development entities, city governments, chambers, tourism partners, etc.) to execute high-impact integrated campaigns including content development and promotions that increase brand awareness and compel quality prospects to contact GDEcD.  

Minimum qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or a closely related field and 3 years of professional level experience working in the media or public relations OR 6 years of professional level experience working in the media or public relations.
• Experience as a supervisor or lead worker.
• Excellent writing, editing and speech writing skills.
• Thorough knowledge of economic development.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Superior interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule in order to meet aggressive deadlines.

Preferred qualifications

• 8 years of professional level experience working in the media or public relations, including 3+ years of managerial experience.
• Accredited in Public Relations (APR).Agency and government experience.
• Previous experience in business communications, especially serving as a primary spokesperson.
• Team management, mentoring/coaching, etc.
• Project management experience.  

Some travel, primarily statewide. Nights and weekends as required.

Salary commensurate with experience.   Open until filled; apply ASAP.  Resumes will be reviewed beginning October 11, 2013 and earlier candidates receive first consideration.  Position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. To apply, submit résumé and cover letter via e-mail to: jobs@georgia.org no later than the deadline listed above.  Include the position title in the subject line of your e-mail.  If you do not have internet access or require accommodation because of a disability, please contact GDEcD Human Resources at 404-962-4000.