This position supports the Public Relations, Media & Marketing Director in planning, developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that strengthen the City of Columbia’s connection with its employees, residents, neighborhoods, and community partners. The role elevates community engagement, enhances internal communication, and promotes a unified City narrative.
The Public Relations Manager leads initiatives that build trust, improve access to information, support employee culture, and showcase City programs and accomplishments. Work is performed with considerable independence, utilizing professional judgment, strategic thinking, and collaboration across all City departments. Progress of major initiatives is communicated.
Work is primarily sedentary but requires walking, standing, and light lifting during events or outreach activities. Must be able to perform sustained keyboarding and maintain the physical abilities needed for fingering, hearing, speaking, reaching, visual acuity, and general mobility.
Work is typically performed in a standard office environment with routine visits to community locations, City facilities, and event sites. The position requires flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to support neighborhood meetings, community engagements, City events, and time-sensitive communication needs. Work may involve outdoor activity during events or public programs. The environment is generally safe and secure but may require responding to unplanned or urgent communication demands.• Develops and implements communication strategies that support strong community and employee relationships;
• Builds and maintains positive community relations through outreach, engagement events, and partnership activities;
• Plans, coordinates, promotes, and executes City events, ribbon cuttings, announcements, and public programs;
• Develops internal communications that keep employees informed, engaged, and aligned with City priorities;
• Produces and distributes press releases, advisories, talking points, speeches, letters, and other written materials;
• Maintains productive relationships with media; coordinates interviews, briefings, and responses to media inquiries;
• Creates content for digital, print, and multimedia platforms, including social media, newsletters, and website updates;
• Captures photography, video, and other media recordings at City events and activities for communications use;
• Provides guidance to City departments on public information, messaging, branding, and outreach practices;
• Responds to inquiries from the public, employees, media, and community organizations with timely, accurate information;
• Supports crisis communications, including preparation of urgent messages and coordinated response efforts;
• Assists with communication strategies for major City projects, initiatives, and capital improvements;
• Represents the department at meetings, community gatherings, and engagement events;
• Collaborates with Human Resources and leadership on employee initiatives, recognition efforts, and culture-building programs;
• Coordinates logistics and communication components for special events and media opportunities;
• Reviews and edits communication materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, and brand consistency; and
• Performs related professional and administrative duties as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK: • Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, marketing or a closely related field;
• Five (5) years of relevant prior experience;
• Valid South Carolina Class “D” Driver’s License.• Knowledge of public relations principles, communication strategy, media relations, and community engagement techniques;
• Strong writing skills, including the ability to compose clear, accurate, and persuasive materials in various formats;
• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with residents, employees, community leaders, and media representatives;
• Skilled in managing multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment;
• Ability to analyze information, anticipate communication needs, and recommend strategic solutions;
• Proficiency with computers, digital communication platforms, content management systems, and standard office software;
• Ability to provide leadership, give direction, and support collaborative problem-solving;
• Ability to communicate effectively to diverse audiences through public speaking, presentations, and group facilitation;
• Ability to work with discretion, sound judgment, and attention to detail on sensitive or confidential matters; and
• Ability to work independently while contributing to team objectives.
