Director of Strategic Communications - Media Relations Director

Overview

Responds to media inquiries to provide accurate and timely information. Serves as a spokesperson for the agency. Broadly produces and circulates the agency's messages and brand in a timely manner. This function includes communicating with the media to distribute agency-related news and updates; responding to inquiries and comments from the public; promoting agency programs and accomplishments; producing materials to communicate crisis management messages during emergencies;

and educating the public about the agency's mission.

• Writes and edits news releases, articles for publications, scripts for special events, videos and other formats, speeches, op-ed pieces, letters-to-the-editor, media campaigns, educational materials, etc., as needed. Develops and maintains an electronic database for timely distribution of press releases via email media contacts across the state. Maintains the SCDOT Press Release Internet Page and posts releases and digital photos on the web site in a timely manner concerning construction and maintenance updates, general news about the agency, public meetings and weather emergency information, etc.
• Coordinates with the Public Information Officers to ensure consistent information is provided across social media platforms and in response to media requests. Works proactively to provide media members with information about SCDOT's projects and programs.
• Assists in the planning and direction of communication strategies and long-range public information and/or education programs designed to promote and explain agency goals, activities and objectives. Works collaboratively with the entire public engagement team to achieve those goals.
• Handles confidential and sensitive information and requests appropriately, keeping leadership informed.
• Proactively provides media members with opportunities to receive updates on SCDOT projects. Helps onboard new reporters by providing them with information and points of contact. Serves as a resource for agency personnel on building and maintaining strong relationships with the media.
• Develops systems and policies for the release and distribution of agency information. Develops and maintains a tracking system for media requests. Develops and maintains a system for sharing news coverage with internal stakeholders. Uses software to monitor media coverage and social media activity and generate analytic reports.
• In coordination with other public engagement staff members, coordinates the planning of special events, news conferences, tours, conferences and media interviews. Performs other related duties as assigned.

A bachelor’s degree and five (5) years of relevant experience; or an approved acceptable equivalence. A valid motor vehicle operator's license is required.

The South Carolina Department of Transportation is committed to a diverse workforce and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.