Director of Communications

THE CANDIDATE: 

The City of Bowie is seeking a proven and experienced professional to serve as its next Director of Communications.  The ideal will be an experienced people manager, with significant experience managing and developing communication strategies, including through social media; brand management; production of video and broadcast content; and emergency messaging. This individual must be a skilled problem solver with a proven ability to develop and disseminate clear, accurate and consistent messaging, and be able to communicate effectively to all members of the community. 

The City of Bowie desires a Director of Communications with a bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs , Marketing, Political Science, English, or a related field.  A master’s degree in Communications, Public Administration, or a Graduate Certificate in Public Management and/or a related field is highly desirable.  The ideal candidate will also have seven years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or media, including at least three years in a supervisory or management role.  Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), FEMA PIO training, or certifications from professional associations such as 3CMA, PRSA, or ICMA are advantageous.

The successful applicant will also possess the following attributes:

• Strong leadership and strategic planning capabilities.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and respond effectively during emergencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in video production, website content management systems, graphic design software, Microsoft suite of products.
• Knowledge of the principles of communication and public relations, English usage, grammar, and composition.
• Knowledge of the characteristics and capabilities of printing methods, layout, typography, and composition.
• Knowledge of local government operations and organizations.
• Familiarity with public sector communications and open government principles, and the ability to choose appropriate means and techniques of disseminating information to desired audiences.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others including the general public, coworkers, elected officials and all other stakeholders.

THE POSITION: 

Reporting to the Assistant City Manager, responsibilities of this position will include, but not be limited to:

• Leading in the development and execution of comprehensive communication strategies and campaigns to support City programs, services, and policy initiatives across all City departments.
• Supervising a multi-disciplinary team responsible for public information, broadcasting, graphic design, social media, and digital media production.
• Overseeing the creation, publication, and distribution of the City’s newsletters, promotional materials, and emergency alerts.
• Coordination of use of the City’s social media presence, including message development, audience engagement, and performance monitoring.
• Overseeing the broadcast and recording of City Council meetings, public hearings, and special events on the City’s government access channel.
• Collaborating with City departments to maintain message consistency, branding alignment, and high standards for visual, written, and digital communication for department level work.
• Developing and managing the division’s annual budget, staffing, and equipment procurement, including maintenance of broadcast and production systems.
• Monitoring community discussion platforms and coordinating appropriate outreach and/or response.
• Coordination special publications and major speechwriting efforts, including the Mayor’s Annual State of the City presentation.
• Staying informed on emerging communications technologies and industry trends and applying them to improve outreach and effectiveness.
• Serving as the primary media contact for the City. This includes establishing and maintaining strong relationships with local media, managing inquiries, providing background information, developing talking points, and issuing press releases.
• Maintaining knowledge of City projects and services to respond accurately to public and media inquiries or route them to the appropriate source.
• Serving as the City’s Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies, weather events, and sensitive situations. Coordinating real-time communications, ensuring message clarity and consistency, and providing timely information to the media and the public.
• Overseeing and approving all content for the City’s website, newsletters, and publications; ensuring that materials are accurate, accessible, well-written, and aligned with City branding standards.
• Maintaining outreach databases for churches, community organizations, schools, and other partners.
• Other duties and/or assignments may be required based on need.

THE CITY

Founded in 1870, and incorporated as a town in 1916, Bowie has grown from a small railroad stop to the largest municipality in Prince George’s County, and the fifth largest city in the State of Maryland, with an estimated population of 57,644. The town was first called Huntington City, though its train station was named in honor of local resident, Governor Oden Bowie, president of the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad. The town was subsequently rechartered as Bowie. Its rich history and significant growth make Bowie residents and employees proud to be part of a highly diverse and respected community.

Today, the City of Bowie Government consists of over four hundred hardworking employees in a variety of skilled, non-skilled, administrative, public safety, and professional disciplines. The City boasts a pleasant working environment and a strong, goal-oriented culture. This culture is reflected in the City’s consistently high employee retention rate,  and record of success in achieving organizational objectives. Joining the City of Bowie means becoming part of a dynamic, motivated, and aligned team.

The City offers a competitive salary range of $100,000-$125,000, depending on qualifications, and a robust menu of employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance, a 401(K) with employer match, and a 457 savings plan. To optimize employee work/life balance, this position may include telework and flexible scheduling options.

 Salary:  $100,000 – $125,000 Depending on Qualifications

How to Apply:  please visit the city’s website at:  www.cityofbowie.org and click on the employment link.   All applicants MUST submit a completed City of Bowie employment application in order to be considered for this opportunity.

Application deadline:    July 18, 2025 by 5:00 pm