Media and Communications Manager

The City of Santa Fe Springs is seeking a highly motivated professional to serve as its Media & Communications Manager.

Apply promptly at www.santafesprings.gov — this recruitment may close at any time.

Work Schedule: 4/10 schedule (Monday–Thursday)

Position Purpose

Leads and manages the City’s comprehensive Creative Media & Communications Program, including public information, marketing, branding, media relations, crisis communications, and community engagement.

Serves as the City’s senior communications strategist, advising executive leadership and aligning messaging with City Council priorities. Oversees internal and external communications, brand identity, staff, and program budget.

This role is critical in promoting transparency, public trust, and effective community engagement.

Supervision

• Receives: General supervision from the Police & Community Services Director
• Exercises: Direct supervision over communications staff (e.g., Public Information Officer, Communications Specialists), as well as consultants, interns, and volunteers

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a Citywide communications and public information program
• Develop and implement strategic communications plans, goals, and performance metrics
• Serve as chief communications advisor to executive leadership
• Oversee media relations, branding, digital platforms, website, and social media
• Direct crisis and emergency communications; serve as PIO as needed
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate communications staff
• Manage consultants, contracts, and communications-related services
• Prepare and approve press releases, speeches, reports, and digital content
• Oversee website governance, content standards, and compliance
• Coordinate public engagement, outreach, and community feedback efforts
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws (e.g., Public Records Act, Brown Act)
• Develop and manage program budget and forecasts
• Represent the City in meetings and public settings

Additional Duties

• Attend City Council meetings and community events
• Provide communications support during emergencies and after hours as needed
• Perform related duties as assigned

Knowledge & Skills

Knowledge of:

• Public sector communications, media relations, and crisis communications
• Applicable laws (e.g., Brown Act, Public Records Act)
• Digital media, analytics, and content strategy
• Public administration and community engagement practices
• Budgeting, contracting, and program management

Ability to:

• Provide strategic communications counsel at the executive level
• Manage complex, high-profile, and sensitive issues
• Communicate effectively in writing and verbally across platforms
• Build relationships with officials, staff, media, and the public
• Analyze data and develop actionable recommendations
• Lead teams and manage multiple priorities under pressure

Education & Experience

Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, public administration, journalism, marketing, or a related field (Master’s preferred)

Experience:

• Five (5) years of progressively responsible communications/public affairs experience
• Three (3) years of supervisory or management experience

License: Valid California driver’s license with acceptable driving record

To view the official job bulletin and apply, visit the City’s website at www.santafesprings.gov