Director of Communications

AUGUST 10, 2024

VISION

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition in Norman, Oklahoma, seeks a visionary Director of Communications to lead our transformative county-wide economic development efforts. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of the third-largest county in the state and one of Oklahoma's most dynamic and fastest-growing. As a leadership team member, you will spearhead our communications and community engagement/outreach strategy, ultimately elevating Cleveland County's profile locally, regionally, and nationally.

Norman has recently been recognized as one of the Top 25 Places to Live in the Southwest by Livability.com, and a prime reason for that is the presence of the University of Oklahoma, which provides residents with access to stellar higher education and quality of life amenities. In addition, Mid-American Christian University and Moore-Norman Technology Center offer premier training programs that support workforce development, ensuring a skilled labor pool for our employers and local businesses. The presence of these institutions not only provides incredible opportunities for residents but also ensures positive growth by attracting families seeking educational advancement for their children. Other cities in Cleveland County include Moore - “Home of Toby Keith,” and Noble – one of the few places on earth to find Rose Rock and Slaughterville, Lexington, and south Oklahoma City.

Cleveland County is well-known for its work ethic, sense of community pride, and active engagement in annual events, fostering community spirit and connection. The area also offers a rich history, historical sites, cultural attractions, and hundreds of annual festivals celebrating our region’s heritage.

Cleveland County offers a blend of urban and suburban living, with cities like Norman, Moore, Oklahoma City, and Noble providing diverse amenities for all ages. With access to a considerable number of outdoor green spaces, lakes, and mountain biking trails, our residents enjoy activities such as golfing, biking, hiking, boating, and fishing year-round. The existence of Lake Thunderbird, the most visited State Park in Oklahoma, and more than 80 parks provide access to the beautiful outdoors, which creates an unequaled quality of life.

Cleveland County offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Situated just minutes from downtown Oklahoma City, our county boasts a highly educated workforce, a robust economy, and a rich cultural scene. From our picturesque landscapes to our distinctive and vibrant communities, Cleveland County provides an ideal setting for professional growth and personal fulfillment. In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

• Craft compelling narratives that highlight our county's strengths, showcase our existing industry, and attract new businesses and talent.
• Collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and community partners.
• Coordinate and lead civic education and innovative marketing campaigns that position Cleveland County as a premier destination for investment and growth opportunities.
• An opportunity to mentor and develop a talented communications team as the organization develops and evolves.

If you are a methodical thinker enthusiastic about cultivating and establishing collaborative efforts and economic development with a history of success in communications roles, we invite you to join us in shaping the future for Cleveland County’s growth and success.

Position: “Director” or “Vice President” of Communications, depending on experience

•   Reports to President and CEO

•   Status: Exempt

•  Post Close Date: September 20th, 2024

Position Scope

The individual responsible for communications is an integral member of the senior leadership team, responsible for directing the Cleveland County EDC's communications, marketing, and public relations strategies and practices. This individual will manage a comprehensive communication program and collaborate with community partners to raise Cleveland County’s profile with local, regional, and national stakeholders and audiences.

Work includes integrating and implementing a broad range of marketing and public relations activities relative to the strategic direction and positioning of the organization and its leadership. As an ambassador for the organization, this individual builds relationships with media, investors and members, regional business and government representatives, contractors and vendors, the EDC Board of Directors, and other key stakeholders to advance the organization's position and the area's economic ecosystem. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

•  Develop and deliver a strategic communications plan to enrich Cleveland County’s brand locally, regionally, and nationally, as well as elevate perceptions of the county’s business climate, investment opportunities, and quality of life.
• Set strategic direction for communications tactics and content: websites and blogs; social media; email marketing; publications, reports, and newsletters; news releases; paid media; video; media placements; etcetera.
• Create internal and corporate communications policies and practices to support the organization’s vision, mission, and values and ensure consistent standards across channels and in the community.
• Set current and long-term goals, measure programming, track objectives and report out on communications metrics.
• Counsel the Coalition’s executives and staff on public relations and communications best practices.
• Work with contracted PR agencies to share storylines, advance pitches, direct paid media campaigns, and develop collateral materials.
• Consult with community representatives throughout the county and interdepartmental stakeholders (economic development, membership, events, government affairs, higher education, visitor bureaus) to create effective strategies and tactics to support organizational and specific program goals and objectives.
• In concert with the president and CEO, develop and implement communications to the CCEDC Board of Directors and top investors throughout the county.
• Write scripts for CCEDC events and speaking engagements. Ensure CCEDC representatives are coached and prepared for public engagements and media interviews.
• Lead initiative-taking communications to and cultivate relationships with the media, oversee press events, and function as spokesperson when needed. Manage communications staff and departmental operations budget, resources, agency contracts, and growth opportunities.
• As needed, engage in direct work on tactics, events, and other organizational programs and activities.

Education and Experience

·       Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field is required. Minimum of five years of experience in a communications role with similar responsibilities. Candidates with experience in community development or economic development are preferred.

·       Accredited in public relations (APR) or advanced degree a plus.

·       Design experience is critical, preferably with the Adobe suite of products.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

·       Demonstrated experience and capability in managing comprehensive strategic marketing and communications.

·       Demonstrated skill and comfort in proactively building relationships with diverse audiences and stakeholders at various levels of leadership and influence.

·       Innovative thinker, skilled in translating strategic thinking into action plans and output.

·       Excellent judgment, creative problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

·       Ability to make decisions in a changing environment and anticipate future needs.

·       Energetic, flexible, collaborative, and initiative-taking; a team

·       Leader who can positively and productively impact both strategy and tactics.

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills and extraordinary attention to detail.

·       Practical experience building and delivering senior-level communications.

·       High degree of proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, web content management systems, and video production tools.

·       Mature, self-aware, and responsive to editing and critiquing of work.

Work Environment

·       Typical office environment for daily operations. Participation or attendance will be required at events during evenings and occasionally on weekends.

TO APPLY

No later than September 20, 2024, please provide a short case study outlining a communications, public relations, or marketing program you developed and implemented. It should include, at a minimum, these three elements:

1. The challenge

2. The solution

3. The outcome

Your case study should be no longer than two pages. Applicants should submit their resume, cover letter, salary requirements, and short case study to….

Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition

424 W. Main St.

Norman, OK 73069

or: mailto:Info@SelectClevelandCounty.com