PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Position Summary: Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Public Information Officer/Communications Manager plans, directs, manages, and evaluates Chatham Area Transit Authority’s (CAT) public communications, media relations, marketing, and community outreach activities. The position serves as a strategic advisor to the CEO and translates organizational priorities, transit information, and complex or sensitive issues into clear, accurate, and accessible communications for employees, riders, media outlets, community partners, and the public. This position leads communications initiatives that strengthen public trust, promote CAT services, support ridership growth, and enhance the Authority’s reputation. The incumbent manages competing priorities and exercises sound judgment in a dynamic environment.

Strategic Communications and Executive Support: Serve as a strategic extension of the CEO, aligning communications, media relations, marketing, and outreach with CAT’s mission and organizational priorities. Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Authority’s Strategic Communications Plan. Advise the CEO on communications opportunities, emerging public concerns, reputational issues, and messaging strategies. Research audience needs, public perceptions, and outreach opportunities to inform communications planning. Prepare speeches, talking points, presentations, press releases, publications, and other communications for executive review and approved distribution.

Media Relations and Public Information: Manage relationships with media outlets and respond promptly and accurately to requests for information, following CAT’s approval and information-release procedures. Coordinate and facilitate media interviews, press conferences, and public announcements; prepare leadership for media engagements. Serve as an authorized spokesperson when assigned, including as a backup to the CEO or other designated leadership team members. Coordinate approved communications concerning service changes, disruptions, safety matters, and emergencies with the CEO and appropriate departments. Translate complex, technical, or sensitive information into clear language appropriate for diverse audiences. Monitor media coverage and public feedback, identify issues requiring leadership attention, and recommend appropriate responses.

Marketing and Community Outreach: Develop and implement marketing strategies, promotions, and campaigns that increase awareness and use of CAT services among commuters, youth, and other target audiences. Oversee the creation and distribution of rider information, promotional materials, print and radio advertisements, video content, and outdoor advertising. Coordinate outreach with local and regional jurisdictions, partner agencies, community organizations, advertising contacts, consultants, and vendors. Maintain consistent messaging, visual identity, and brand standards across communications channels. Evaluate campaign and outreach results and recommend improvements based on available data and feedback.

Digital Communications and Content Management: Oversee CAT’s social media presence and public-facing digital content to support rider information, public engagement, and constituent relations. Coordinate the creation, review, approval, and posting of website content, social media updates, text notifications, and other digital communications. Monitor content accuracy, channel functionality, and engagement; coordinate needed corrections or technical support. Work with appropriate staff to make communications accessible and responsive to the needs of diverse audiences.

Department Coordination: Maintain the ability to perform essential Communications and Marketing Coordinator functions and provide backup coverage during absences. Collaborate across departments to verify information, coordinate announcements, and support organizational initiatives. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Operational Authority: This position reports directly to the CEO. The incumbent manages communications and marketing activities within delegated authority and follows established approval procedures for public statements, expenditures, and commitments on behalf of CAT.Compliance Responsibilities Complete all mandatory training and maintain knowledge of CAT policies, procedures, and directives applicable to the position. Follow CAT’s standards for ethical conduct, confidentiality, records management, social media use, and release of public information.

Education and Experience: The preferred candidate possesses a bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, English, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field, with eight to ten years of relevant media or communications experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position. Experience managing media relations is required. Experience with a public transit agency or other public-sector organization is preferred. Demonstrated success managing strategic communications initiatives and supporting organizational change that improves efficiency, effectiveness, or brand reputation is desirable.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities: Excellent writing, editing, proofreading, public speaking, and presentation skills, including proficiency with grammar and Associated Press (AP) style. Ability to communicate complex administrative and technical information clearly, accurately, and sensitively to diverse audiences. Knowledge of media relations, public relations, marketing, community engagement, and communications planning principles and practices. Ability to exercise discretion, protect confidential information, and communicate effectively about sensitive or evolving matters. Knowledge of web publishing, social media management, digital engagement, and project management practices. Ability to develop a working understanding of CAT’s programs, services, organizational structure, and operations. Ability to analyze data and feedback, establish priorities, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines. Ability to conduct interviews, develop promotional materials, and maintain productive relationships with media representatives and community partners. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant communications technologies; experience with audio and video production software and equipment. Ability to coordinate communications initiatives and build respectful working relationships across departments. Proficiency in English is required; bilingual skills are preferred.

Preferred Skills: Experience with a public transit agency or other public-sector organization