Community Relations

Job Description

Develops strategies and implements programs for community engagement. Coordinates and controls the dissemination of the Sheriff's Department public information to the news media, clubs, civic organizations, and the community, in a manner which meets their information requirements while protecting confidential information and maintaining public trust.

Responsibilities

1. Develops plans, creates marketing initiatives and oversees activities for community events, programs, and campaigns. Confirms sponsorships from corporations, non-profits, governmental entities, and school districts. Researches and assesses social media platforms in efforts to promote community events.

2. Serves as the initial, centralized departmental contact to the print and broadcast media, locally and nationally, to coordinate the timely dissemination of accurate news-worthy information involving the Sheriff's Department. Balances the press's right to know with the Sheriff's need to protect the integrity of confidential information or investigations without alienating the media.

3. Provides training, support, and advice to the Sheriff and his/her staff on the most appropriate techniques for use in the preparation and conduct of community meetings, speeches, and presentations.

4. Manages the non-profit organization associated with the Dallas County Sheriff's Office. Develops community volunteer groups to assist with creating opportunities for community engagement projects. Makes recommendations for volunteers to serve on the advisory boards.

5. Posts information and announcements on social media to address ongoing community issues/concerns on behalf of the Dallas Sheriff's Office.

6. Develops outlines and writes news releases and speeches for the Sheriff and his/her staff.

7. Coordinates with the Sheriff and his/her staff to provide public speakers with specific areas of expertise as requested to address various club and civic groups. Attends public events with the Sheriff; solicits and develops new partnerships; captures footage for social media.

8. Serves as information outlet to the news media on criminal proceedings as related on the County judicial computer.

9. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education, Experience and Training:
Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, English, Communications. or in a job related field of study. Five (5) years of additional experience required.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Ability to understand the media's focus and respond to it in a manner which maintains the public trust; must possess outstanding communication ability in writing, on the telephone, and in media interview situations; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other Sheriff's employees, the media, and the general public. Knowledgeable in public administration, public relations, community relations, non-profits, and philanthropy management. Knowledgeable of intricate and highly technical processes for submitting external grant proposals offered by community minded philanthropic foundations. Knowledge in specialized dynamics utilized in thorough and complete analysis of software analytics, measuring tools, and creating social media platform growth. Requires successful completion of a polygraph and extensive background investigation and is subject to random, unannounced drug/alcohol testing. Physical/Environmental Requirements:

Physical Requirements:
May require prolonged sitting. On call 7 days per week 24 hours per day to respond to emergency media communications requirements.