Director of Strategic Communications

Director of Strategic Communications

Education Service Center

Eight hours of paid work time plus 30 minutes of unpaid lunch time per day

52 weeks per year

Program Director Terms and Conditions of Employment

Job Level 8 ($124,326 - $143,814) based on the current salary schedule, plus benefits

Reports to the Superintendent

The Director of Strategic Communications is responsible for researching, planning, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive communications program that supports the District's Strategic Plan and vision. This role strengthens relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners; enhances the district's reputation; and builds community trust through two‑way, relationship‑based communication.

The Director provides leadership and direction for all district‑wide internal and external communications, promoting and elevating district initiatives, and fostering community pride in Robbinsdale Area schools.

• Develop, implement, and evaluate a district‑wide strategic communications plan aligned with the District's vision and strategic priorities.
• Provide communication counsel and strategic guidance to district leaders, including the Superintendent and School Board.
• Advise and support schools and departments on communication, public relations, and marketing efforts, ensuring consistency and alignment with district messaging.
• Forecast and assess emerging issues that may impact the district's operations or reputation, and advise the superintendent.
• Lead crisis communications and create key messages for critical issues affecting individual schools and/or the district.

• Establish mutually beneficial relationships with local media (broadcast, digital, and print) and serve as the district's chief spokesperson.
• Identify opportunities for positive media coverage and use appropriate tools (press releases, publications, videos, websites, social media, and others) to publicize them.
• Provide staff training and guidance in media relations as needed.
• Direct the development, implementation, and evaluation of a strategic enrollment marketing plan to position Robbinsdale Area Schools as the district of choice.
• Promote district programs, achievements, and opportunities to current and prospective families.

• Build and sustain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders through inclusive, culturally responsive communication strategies.
• Serve as the district's primary liaison with local community organizations and business partners.
• Oversee community engagement initiatives that strengthen trust and enhance the district's reputation.

• Assist the Superintendent in interpreting, implementing, and communicating School Board actions.
• Serve on the senior leadership team and attend School Board meetings, providing community relations and communication expertise.
• Coordinate and support district leaders and action planning teams to ensure annual review and ongoing communication of the District's Strategic Plan.

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, education, or a related field required.
• Master's degree preferred. Accreditation in Public Relations desired but not required.
• 3–5 years of experience in public relations or marketing, with public education experience preferred.
• Strategic Leadership: Develop and communicate a clear vision; align work with organizational mission and values; champion innovation and change.
• Collaboration: Build strong cross‑departmental relationships; foster cooperation and shared accountability.
• Judgment: Analyze complex issues using multiple perspectives; apply systems thinking; make sound, timely decisions.
• Communication: Foster open, two‑way communication; communicate clearly and empathetically in writing, verbally, and in public presentations.
• Planning & Execution: Set measurable goals; manage projects effectively; improve processes and ensure accountability.
• Self‑Management: Demonstrate adaptability, integrity, and continuous professional growth.
• Motivation…