6.5 SR 05-13-2013 Elk REQUEST FOR ACTION
River
TO ITEM NUMBER
Mayor and City Council 6.4
AGENDA SECTION MEETING DATE PREPARED BY
Worksession May 13, 2013 Tina Allard, City Clerk
ITEM DESCRIPTION REVIEWED By
Communications Coordinator Position Description and Salary Human Resources Representative
Range Lauren Wipper
REVIEWED BY
Cal Portner, City Administrator
ACTION REQUESTED
Review and provide feedback on the Communications Coordinator Position Description.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
In May 2012, the Council approved a new organizational structure for the city. As part of the change,a
new position was created in order to help coordinate and funnel all communications through one
department. This position's function is to assist the city with sending out coordinated, consistent,
branded,high quality, and timely messages through various communications resources/tools.
RaeAnn Gardner started transitioning into this role beginning in July of 2012. Being this is a new
position within the city, a new position description has been drafted based on current duties and an
evaluation of the pay grade has been completed by Human Resources.
This item will come back to Council for formal approval at a future meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
This position description has been placed in the pay plan at Pay Grade 7.
ATTACHMENTS
■ Communications Coordinator Position Description
POWERED BY
N:\Public Bodies\Agenda Packets\05-13-2013\Final\6.5 sr comet coordX.docx aAURE
of City of Elk River
Elk
Communications Coordinator
River Position Description
Department: Immediate Supervisor:
Administration/Administrative Services City Clerk
Pay Grade: FLSA Status: Last Updated: (date)
7 Exempt 5/2013
Positions Supervised:
N/A
Position Summary
The Communications Coordinator crafts and enhances city communications by coordinating the
efforts of all city departmental communicators to maximize talents and minimize duplication of
effort. Provides marketing,publication,media release, and general public/media relations support to
all departments. Drafts and publishes internal and external communication to inform stakeholders.
Ensures high quality and timely distribution of accurate and relevant information to residents,
businesses, and employees.
Essential Functions
1. Oversees and coordinates all marketing tools used for communications,public relations, and
general information including publications,websites and social media.
A. Creates and edits original content.
B. Creates and coordinates graphics,photos, and other design needs.
C. Assists with coordination of special events and celebrations (ribbon cuttings,
opening ceremonies,meetings, etc.).
D. Creates and maintains a media archive of press clippings, articles,photographs, etc.
E. Researches and recommends new marketing tools.
F. Coordinates and monitors all communications information provided by the city.
G. Supports and assists city marketers in other departments.
H. Provides communication assistance in the event of an emergency or disaster.
I. Matches messages to communication tools and target audiences.
J. Monitors effectiveness of communications and communications tools and
recommends changes to enhance effectiveness.
2. Manages web services.
A. Responsible for basic maintenance of city internal and public websites.
B. Works with departments to ensure accurate and timely information is posted.
C. Recommends and implements website changes as appropriate.
3. Manages social media.
A. Oversees and implements city-wide social media strategy.
B. Monitors and responds to social media inquiries, complaints, and comments.
C. Creates and manages social media sites.
4. Coordinates and manages media releases.
A. Assists the city's public information officer.
B. Writes, distributes, and monitors releases and ads to appropriate news media and
professional journals. Assists departments in this area as needed.
C. Builds relationships with media contacts/journalists to promote image of the city,
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provides statements, and coordinates interviews as needed.
5. Performs marketing and branding of the city.
A. Implements and manages the marketing and branding plan for the city.
B. Works with other departments to ensure the delivery of internal and external
communications is consistent with the city message,brand,and vision.
6. Performs other essential job duties.
A. Regular and timely work attendance.
B. Follows all safety procedures.
C. Participates in safety training.
D. Coordinates special projects and events as needed.
E. Responsible for supporting policies and procedures for communication functions.
F. Assists with marketing budgets for various departments.
G. Manages the bidding and purchasing process for printing,mail preparation,and
design services and other financial matters consistent with budget.
H. Attends internal and external meetings as needed or directed as a representative of
the city.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
❑ Knowledge of the English language including excellent spelling,grammar,punctuation, form
and style skills.
❑ Skilled in the use of related computer software programs.
❑ Skilled in communicating clearly and effectively orally, electronically, and in writing.
❑ Ability to manage contracts to meet production timelines, budget, and standards.
❑ Ability to self-direct activities and work independently to meet goals and objectives.
❑ Ability to establish and maintain a working relationship with City Council, staff, other public
officials, the media and public.
❑ Ability to write, edit, and maintain quality control and standards per city policies.
Minimum Qualifications
• Two-year degree in communications, or related field.
• Two years' experience writing newsletters, articles, and press releases.
• Two years' experience designing and maintaining web sites.
• Proficient with various web, design, and graphics software.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record.
Preferred Qualifications
❑ Bachelor's degree in communications or journalism or closely related degree.
❑ Extensive experience with computer graphics,web design, desktop publishing, and related
publishing tools and resources.
❑ Additional coursework or experience in marketing,design,photography,web site design,
and development, advertising, cable and/or public relations.
❑ Previous experience in a government setting.
This Position Description is not intended to be all-inclusive. It is within the City of Elk River's discretion
to assign additional duties and responsibilities or remove duties and responsibilities at any time.
This Position Description does not constitute a Contract of Employment.