Communications Coordinator- OMWBD

Position is responsible for implementing minority outreach and diversity programs as well as developing and implementing training and marketing strategies. This position is also responsible for disseminating information on office services to the media and the general public, as well as coordinating community needs with departmental programs and activities. This position values diversity in perspectives and experiences among colleagues and the residents of this city whom they serve.

The Office of Minority and Women Business Development (OMWBD) is dedicated to supporting small businesses and those owned by minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with ADA disabilities. OMWBD assists certified businesses in accessing contract opportunities from various projects in Central Indiana funded by the city, county, municipality, and private sector.

The City of Indianapolis Marion County is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status. We value diversity in perspectives and experiences among colleagues and the residents of this city of whom we serve.

• Develop action plans and implement minority business and diversity outreach activities, including but not limited to business networking events, business development marketing, community events, diversity fairs, assists with the coordination of minority business outreach initiatives, and other special projects including the Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards, Martin Luther King Program, Indiana Black Expo and others as assigned.
• Serve as department’s liaison to designated partner and/or minority groups regarding OMWBD’s programs and activities under the direction of the Director and/or the Director’s designee.
• Assist in the development and/or facilitation of training programs to educate minority – women – veteran - and disability owned business enterprises, as well as City/County and municipal agencies on contracting and purchasing procedures and other relevant business opportunities.
• Serve as a designated contact for City/County departments and municipal government agencies regarding MBE/WBE/VBE/DOBE Participation, reporting requirements and applicable procedures.
• Coordinate the development and implementation of OMWBD marketing strategies including development of and distribution of OMWBD deliverable notices, website, shared folders, and other social media coverage.
• Prepare press releases, arrange news conferences, and coordinate interaction between the media and OMWBD.
• Advise director and staff on current media events and issues. Lead and coordinate program displays at multiple settings.
• Oversee media relations and public information for agency.
• May be required to meet with citizens, business groups, and civic clubs in an effort to promote the department/city.
• Attend business and community meetings as needed; present and explain MBE/WBE/VBE/DOBE utilization/participation requirements.
• Research best practice models from the nation, state and the city and make recommendations regarding policies and strategies.
• Write, edit, and produce brochures, catalogs, newsletters, and specialized publications as needed.
• Be responsible for responding to public records requests.
• This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities that management may deem necessary from time to time.

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Business, Communications, Marketing, or related field. Must have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience in communication, adult training, marketing, or related area. An equivalent combination of work experience may be substituted for each year of education. Experience in local government and/or federal grants management is preferred.

Strong communication and organizational skills. Effective communications, research/analytical, and computer skills are required. Ability to plan and establish priorities. Ability to work with people with diverse backgrounds. Knowledge of desktop publishing software preferred. Work is conducted primarily in a standard office environment with periodic travel to meetings outside the office. Some after hours and weekend work may be expected.