Communications Specialist – San Francisco Human Services Agency

Job Description
Under the direction of the Director of Communications, this position is responsible for helping to plan, implement, and coordinate communications programs for the Department.This role supports one of HSA’s program areas as its Communications Lead in the development, planning, implementation, and coordination of a multi-channel communications strategy in support of that program’s goals. As a Communications Specialist, key responsibilities include creating, updating, editing, and disseminating content and messaging to external audiences (e.G. HSA clients, community partners, grantees, City partners, etc.) and internal stakeholders (e.G. HSA employees across divisions and teams) on multiple channels (i.E. print, electronic, social media, web, mobile, broadcast, etc.), creating broad public awareness, and understanding and effectively communicating the Department policies and programs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS:
According to Civil Service Commission Rule 109, the duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to this job code/ class and are not intended to be an inclusive list. This position may include additional duties as assigned.
Develop and execute effective communications strategies for policies and projects, both to City staffand stakeholders and externally to the public.
Prepares talking points and answers public questions related to a plan, program, event or activity that SFHSA administers.
Develops public relations and digital marketing programs that support the Departments brand strategy objectives, engage the public, and identify innovative methods to bring targeted messages to market.
Creates and develops informative, user-friendly, and customer-focused multi-channel content for internal and external communications.
Creates, proofs, and edits content including:
writing stories and articles, press releases, advisories, fact sheets, briefing notes, website content, editorials, social media content, budget reports, brochure and report updates, including coordinating all aspects of the publication process.
Creates, supports and manages the master content calendar for all sites;
prepares and issues press releases and articles concerning the Departments role in the community, current issues and relevant legislation through various mediums;
maintains consistency on the website and print material design;
responds to complaints or requests for information;
ensures that all content is in compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
May represent the Department to the media as well as before the Board of Supervisors, various community groups, and non-profit agencies.
Coordinates public relations strategies with other City departments and/or with a variety of partner organizations.
Researches and analyzes industry practices and procedures, pertinent legislation, and issues dealing with the community;
prepares proposals for improvements related to community interests and issues.
Serves as liaison between Department staff and community groups, providing accurate public, stakeholder, and community information;
manages crises communications;
represents directors intheir absence at various community, organizational, and governmental meetings;
and manages daily office operation as required.
Contributes to the development and implementation of project strategy and work plans for future expansion of all communication channels by managing promotional activities including, but not limited to the message copy and on-going implementation of communications campaigns, customer service messaging, and department services campaigns;
monitors communication campaigns for effectiveness and information on projects and special events with the goal of developing and maintaining positive community and internal employee relations;
works with departmentalprograms and sections to coordinate informational activities.
Provides assistance, direction, and support to the communications program, as directed.