City of Altoona, PA ยท 4 days ago
Main Street Manager - Strategic Communications
Altoona, PA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$55K/yr - $60K/yr
5+ years expThe City of Altoona is seeking a Main Street Manager - Strategic Communications to manage all internal and external city communications and public engagement. This role involves fostering downtown business success and coordinating city events while serving as a key advisor to city leadership.
Government Administration
Responsibilities
Develop and implement a comprehensive, proactive communications strategy aligned with the City's goals and community priorities
Serve as the primary liaison to the Mayor on communications matters, ensuring alignment on community messaging and engagement
Oversee and manage the City's website content, social media platforms, newsletters, and public information portals
Coordinate internal communications to ensure consistent messaging across departments and with the City Manager's Office
Draft press releases, media advisories, op-eds, and city announcements
Develop emergency and crisis communications protocols, serving as the lead contact for the public and media during incidents
Plan and execute public engagement initiatives, including town halls, listening sessions, surveys, and digital outreach
Partner with department heads to promote City programs, initiatives, and services through tailored communications
Coordinate messaging with key agencies and regional partners, including county and state offices
Serve as the primary liaison with media outlets and establish positive, professional relationships with local and regional reporters
Advise City leadership and staff on media strategy, presentation, and public response approaches
Monitor local news, social media, and community trends to recommend appropriate City responses
Ensure compliance with Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law (RTKL) and support the Right-to-Know Officer in reviewing communications that may be subject to disclosure
Advise and support downtown businesses on program activities, goals, and collaborative strategies
Coordinate promotional events, advertising, uniform store hours, and targeted business recruitment initiatives
Plan, coordinate, and implement major city events such as Blair Creators Festival, Altoona Farmers Market, Altoona Fashion Week, Arts for Your Heart 5k Run/Walk, Memorial Day Parade, Altoona Curve Baseball, and other directed events
Oversee administrative functions of the Main Street program, including budgeting, purchasing, securing sponsorships, and maintaining accurate program records
Develop and execute strategic marketing plans to promote the downtown district and Main Street initiatives
Manage Main Street-specific internal and external communications, including digital and print content
Engage regularly with civic leaders, community groups, businesses, and city leadership to align Main Street initiatives with broader city development goals
Attend and actively participate in community, civic, and administrative meetings representing both communications and Main Street interests
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public administration, political science, or a related field (Master's degree preferred)
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, government communications, journalism, or related field
Experience working within or for local government is highly desirable
Demonstrated experience in media relations, digital communications, and strategic messaging
Thorough knowledge of public sector communications, engagement best practices, and Main Street or similar revitalization programs
Proven ability to execute multi-channel communications campaigns and organize community-focused events
Exceptional writing, editing, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to effectively manage crisis communications and maintain composure under pressure
Skilled in digital content creation, social media management, and leveraging technology for outreach
Competence in budget management, administrative procedures, sponsorship acquisition, and strategic planning
Ability to engage effectively with diverse community groups and business stakeholders
Must possess or obtain a valid State driver's license prior to employment
Preferred
Master's degree
Familiarity with Pennsylvania local government operations, RTKL requirements, and emergency management protocols
Benefits
Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
Paid time off
Retirement options
Company
City of Altoona, PA
Nestled in the picturesque Allegheny Mountains, the City of Altoona is the principal metropolitan center for Blair County, PA, which serves a population of approximately 124,000.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase