Agency Summary
The City-County Council is the legislative branch of our local government. In addition to adopting budgets, levying taxes, and authorizing financial appropriations to fund city and county operations, the council is responsible for enacting, repealing, and amending local laws. The Council appoints members to boards and commissions that serve the community, and all meetings are open to the public.
Job Summary
The Chief Communications Officer serves as the senior communications advisor to the Indianapolis City-County Council and provides comprehensive internal and external communications support to Council leadership and individual Councilors. The position leads the development and execution of communications strategies that advance the Council’s legislative, fiscal, constituent-service, and organizational priorities.
The Chief Communications Officer oversees Council and Councilor branding and messaging; provides strategic communications guidance to Council leadership; manages media relations and public engagement; and ensures timely, accurate, accessible, and nonpartisan dissemination of information. The position acts as the Council’s spokesperson when designated and establishes standards, protocols, and processes that maintain consistency with Council priorities and safeguard the Council’s reputation.
This role supervises the Public Information Officer. The Chief Communications Officer works closely with Council leadership, Council staff, City-County agencies, media representatives, and community stakeholders to effectively communicate Council actions and support public understanding of Council initiatives.
The position exercises discretion within parameters set by the Council President in coordination with Council leadership and staff. Messaging decisions are thoroughly discussed with Council Leadership, Council staff, and subject matter experts as appropriate.
Significant professional judgment is required when engaging with media, community organizations, and civic leaders. Errors in judgment could negatively impact Council operations, cause reputational harm, or expose the City to legal or financial liability.
Work is reviewed on an as-needed basis in addition to an annual evaluation. The position requires initiative, independent decision-making, and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Equal Employment Opportunity
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.
Minimum Job Requirements and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, public affairs, marketing, public administration, political science, telecommunications, or a closely related discipline; an equivalent combination of education and professional experience may be considered. A minimum of three (3) years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, public affairs, or a related field is required, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience. Candidates must demonstrate advanced proficiency in written and oral communication, comprehensive knowledge of communications and marketing methodologies, and the ability to design and execute complex, enterprise-level communication strategies. Additional qualifications include strong analytical judgment, familiarity with governmental operations, and the capacity to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
Preferred Job Requirements and Qualifications
In addition to the minimum job requirements, A minimum of five (5) years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, public affairs, or a related field is required, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience.
If your qualifications meet the requirements of the posted position, your application will be referred to the hiring agency. Once the agency receives your application, all further communication during the interview and selection process will be handled directly BY THE AGENCY. It is IMPERATIVE that you record the contact information of the individual who is scheduling your interview. City-County HR will not have access to this information, is not involved in the interview or selection process, and can only confirm whether an application has been referred. After selection of the successful candidate, an official offer of employment will be made by HR.
