Marketing and Public Relations Manager

Under general or policy direction, oversees, plans, organizes and manages assigned programs and activities of San Joaquin Regional Transit District’s (RTD) Marketing department; provides professional expertise in developing and implementing comprehensive programs and strategies for agency-wide marketing, public relations and public information and outreach initiatives aligned with RTD’s strategic objectives; performs related duties as assigned. 


                                                                              


DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS 
This single incumbent class manages marketing, public relations, advertising, outreach and promotional activities of RTD. This position is responsible for spearheading and coordinating the implementation of multi-media advertising campaigns, special events and public information programs; lead and oversee the end-to-end design and development of RTD branding including printed materials and publications; overseeing and maintaining RTD's website; serve as the primary spokesperson on behalf of RTD; drafting news releases and other important communications; conducting presentations to internal and external stakeholders; providing recommendations to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Leadership Team and Board of Directors as it relates to marketing strategies and initiatives.The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

1. Supervises, mentors, and evaluates work of department staff; implements policies, procedures and workflows to meet overall department goals and objectives; conducts performance evaluations, implements training initiatives, and cultivates a collaborative working environment.

1. Plans and evaluates the performance of staff; establishes performance targets and personal development goals; monitors performance and provides coaching and counseling for performance improvement and development; proactively address attendance or performance issues.

1. Provides strategic communications guidance and support to the CEO, executive leadership team, and Board of Directors regarding media relations, public messaging, community concerns, and matters affecting the agency’s reputation.
2. Serves as RTD’s designated Public Information Officer (PIO) and official spokesperson, acting as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and representing the agency on matters involving services, operations, programs, projects, and public concerns.

1. Develops and implements media/public relations strategies; coordinates press conferences and interviews; prepares press releases, public statements, speeches, talking points, presentations, and other official communications on behalf of RTD and executive leadership.

1. Leads agency communications during emergencies, critical incidents, service disruptions, safety-related events, and crisis situations; coordinates with executive leadership, emergency responders, governmental agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of information.

1. Develops marketing campaigns and strategies which focus on increasing ridership throughout RTD’s service areas.

1. Oversees RTD’s public image and reputation management efforts; monitors media coverage, public sentiment, and emerging issues; and develops proactive communication strategies to address public concerns and sensitive matters.

1. Establishes and maintains relationships with media representatives, governmental agencies, community organizations, business partners, and other stakeholders to promote transparency, public trust, and positive community engagement.

1. Oversees RTD’s website, social media platforms, digital communications, and the development and distribution of marketing, promotional, and public information materials.

1. Plans, organizes, and oversees public outreach programs, community events, customer engagement initiatives, and special projects supporting RTD’s strategic objectives.

1. Participates with all levels of RTD management in establishing strategic plans for RTD; sets overall management and policy goals and objectives for the department; coordinates department program and policy issues with the heads of other departments and/or on an agency-wide basis.

1. Represents RTD at Board meetings, public hearings, community meetings, transportation events, stakeholder meetings, and other public functions.

1. Create board reports and presents to the Board of Directors as required during monthly Board meetings.

1. Develops and monitors department budget to ensure adherence with annual budget limits.

1. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

1. Advanced principles and practices of public relations, strategic communications, media relations, and public information management in public agencies.
2. Advanced principles, methods, concepts, and techniques used in developing and executing effective marketing and public information materials, plans, programs, and strategies.

1. Media interview techniques, press conference coordination, and communications through print, broadcast, digital, and social media

1. Effective use of social media and other online customer relationship management in business environments.

1. Effective business communications and correct English usage.

1. Principles and practices of public administration, including budgeting, purchasing, and maintenance of public records.

1. Effective industry trends and media practices as they apply to developing and carrying out marketing and advertising programs in the public transportation industry.

1. RTD functions and operations and associated public relations, media relations, and marketing issues.

1. Basic web technologies, terminology, and applications relevant to assigned responsibilities.

1. Research methods and analysis techniques.

1. Principles and practices of contract negotiation.

1. Principles and practices of sound business communication.

1. Principles and practices of effective management and supervision.

1. ?RTD human resources policies and procedures and labor contract provisions.

Education, Training and Experience:
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in public relations, communications, business administration, or a closely related field; and seven years of progressively responsible experience three of which were as a manager or supervisor; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. One (1) additional year of the required experience may be substituted for each year (30 semester hours) of the required education.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:
A valid California Class C driver's license.
Experience in a public transit agency or governmental setting is preferred.