DIRECTOR OF MEDIA RELATIONS & COMMUNICATIONS

NOTICE:  LCSO has a new electronic Applicant Screening Questionnaire that must be completed and submitted within 5 business days of the date you submit your County application to be considered for the position.  Failure to complete and submit the electronic questionnaire will disqualify you from this recruitment.

https://lfportal.loudoun.gov/Forms/ApplicantBackground

The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) is seeking professional, dedicated applicants for a Civilian position as a Director of Media Relations and Communications. This position will be located in the Office of the Sheriff.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Manage the Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer section.
• Supervises assigned staff.
• Serves as a Public Information Officer and point of contact for members of the media, developing messages and Responding to public inquires.
• Works directly with the Sheriff, Colonel, Lieutenant Colonels, and the Sheriff's administrative staff in planning and coordinating the Sheriff's weekly schedule specific to public outreach.
• Offers advice and counsel to the Sheriff on a daily basis.
• Represent the Sheriff in a constructive and positive manner in relation to public safety.
• Continuously develop, manage, and maintain relationships with all internal elements of the LCSO as well as local, state, and Federal law enforcement partners.
• Responsible for coordinating and updating the LCSO strategic outreach plan.
• Will manage all media development and organizational policy concerning all interaction by the LCSO with internal and external entities to include FOIA requests when appropriate.
• Supervise all external communications, media, and other publications in order to ensure the LCSO is responsive and accurately represented, and that the proper committees, advisory boards, and other groups where the LCSO's representation is needed and appropriate.

The selected candidate must:

• Have the ability to develop programmatic and administrative management plans, communicate ideas clearly, concisely, and effectively.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, County and State officials, and the general public.
• Work with high-pressure deadlines in a time constricted type environment with flexibility and good organizational skills.
• Have knowledge of social media platforms. Hiring Range commensurate with experience.

Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Advertising, Communications, or related field; five (5) years of related work experience including one (1) year of supervision; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Master's degree preferred.

The position is subject to callout during non-duty hours, to include holidays.

Applicants must submit a completed online screening questionnaire within 5 days of the date you submit your online County application. Selection process includes reviewing the applicant screening questionnaire and County application, in-person interview(s), and an intensive background investigation to include fingerprinting, credit check, driving record, and polygraph examination.