Media and Public Affairs Coordinator

Title: Media and Public Affairs Coordinator
Department: Administration — Community Engagement Unit
Classification: Non-emergency Essential
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: Town Manager
Supervisory Responsibility: No
Primary Work Location: In/around the Town, with reporting, office duties and meetings at Town Hall and Town facilities.

I. Position Summary:

The Media and Public Affairs Coordinator is a key civilian role within the Town of Smyrna responsible for leading all external communications, managing media relations, supporting economic development visibility, and ensuring consistent public messaging across departments. This position reports directly to the Town Manager and collaborates closely with the Chief of Police or designee, as well as other department heads, to ensure that residents, businesses, and the media receive timely, professional, and accurate information.

This position is based on an office environment and is part of the Community Engagement Unit. The coordinator helps develop and maintain the Town's public image by overseeing digital platforms, managing emergency notifications, and promoting positive stories about Smyrna. The role also supports broader goals related to transparency, resident outreach, business promotion, and community pride.

II. Responsibilities:

Public Communications & Media Relations

• Serve as the primary contact for all media inquiries related to the Town Manager's Office, Town Council, Police Department, and other departments.

• Draft and distribute press releases, official statements, emergency alerts, and public notifications.

• Manage and update the official town website, ensuring accurate, accessible, and up-to date content.

• Oversee and maintain the Town's social media platforms, producing timely and professional content.

• Monitor local and regional news; provide summaries and recommendations to town leadership.

• Serve as the lead public information contact during emergencies, public safety incidents, or weather-related events.

Community Outreach & Engagement

• Develop and manage public information tools including email newsletters, digital bulletins, and resident alerts.

• Assist with planning and promoting town events, public meetings, and civic programs in coordination with the Community Engagement Unit.

• Highlight resident achievements, community milestones, and department successes through positive storytelling. Economic Development Support

• Assist in the promotion of new business openings, redevelopment efforts, and investment initiatives.

• Support the Town Manager's office and economic development team in crafting marketing materials and business-focused outreach campaigns.

• Coordinate coverage and publicity for ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, and other economic development events.

• Promote Smyrna as a business-friendly, growing community by maintaining an engaging and consistent economic brand presence. Internal and Cross-Departmental Support

• Provide communications support to town departments and civic organizations as requested.

• Work with the Chief of Police or designee to manage public safety announcements, incident briefings, and transparency efforts.

• Maintain organized records of all town-issued communications, media contacts, and outreach efforts. - Assist with speech writing, talking points, presentations, and promotional materials for town leadership.

III. Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Public

• Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Public Administration, or a closely related field is required.

• A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in public communications, media relations, digital content management, or a related field is required.

• Experience in municipal government, emergency communications, or economic development marketing is strongly preferred.

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by case basis.

IV. Compensation:

• Starting at $62,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications - Includes a comprehensive benefits package with health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.

V. ADA Requirements:

• Work requires sitting, standing, and working in an administrative office setting for extended periods of time.

• Work requires ability to answer the phone, verbally communicate, draft written correspondences (physical and digital) to perform daily tasks.

VI. Additional Requirements:

• Possession and retention of a valid driver's license.

o All motor vehicle violations must be reported to the supervisor immediately.

• A good driving record is required to retain position.