Metropolitan Utilities District · 21 hours ago
Director, Communications
Omaha, NE
Full-time
Hybrid
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
$115K/yr - $173K/yr
5+ years expMetropolitan Utilities District is seeking a Director of Communications who will serve as a key strategic advisor and leader responsible for developing and executing integrated communication and engagement strategies. The role involves overseeing internal and external communications, media relations, and customer engagement initiatives to enhance the District's reputation and customer confidence.
EnergyService Industry
Hiring Manager
Nancy Martinez
Responsibilities
Provide strategic vision and direction for all District communication programs to advance organizational goals and protect the District’s reputation and brand
Serve as the District’s official spokesperson and primary media contact, ensuring consistent, accurate and timely communication with the public and news media
Advise executive leadership and the Board on communication strategy, stakeholder relations and reputational risk
Direct crisis communication and emergency response efforts, ensuring alignment and accuracy across all channels
Oversee the Customer Engagement team responsible for proactive outreach related to infrastructure projects, outages and customer-facing initiatives
Develop and execute strategies that strengthen customer trust, improve service experience and enhance stakeholder engagement
Oversee the Customer Experience Training Program and other initiatives that reinforce a culture of service excellence across the organization
Define and track key metrics to measure engagement effectiveness and customer sentiment
Direct all media relations, digital channels, publications and storytelling efforts to ensure consistency with the District’s mission and values
Oversee development and production of customer-facing materials, including the annual report, newsletters, bill inserts, videos and digital content
Oversee the District’s website and social media presence, driving content strategy, engagement and analytics-based improvement
Champion innovation and emerging communication technologies to improve transparency and public access to information
Oversee communication required by federal and state regulations, including the EPA Consumer Confidence Report, PHMSA Pipeline Public Awareness Plan, the Community Water Management Plan and others as needed
Coordinate regulatory and safety communication efforts with Construction, Engineering, Water Operations, Gas Operations and Customer Experience divisions
Lead internal communication strategies that promote transparency, engagement and alignment with District values
Direct internal communication platforms and initiatives, including intranet content, employee events and service recognition programs
Partner with Human Resources and executive leadership to communicate organizational priorities and foster a shared sense of purpose
Oversee the process of developing and maintaining internal and external forms, ensuring appropriate and accurate verbiage, branding and policy compliance
Represent the District within the community and industry, strengthening partnerships and enhancing public confidence
Direct community impact initiatives, including the M.U.D. Home Fund and the annual Community Giving Drive
Oversee the M.U.D. Connects program, which includes: - M.U.D. Serves: The employee volunteer initiative that coordinates community service opportunities. - Mobile Hydration Station: Management and deployment at community events to promote public health and brand visibility. - Educational Outreach Programs: In collaboration with Human Resources, provide learning opportunities for students and the public on water and natural gas systems, conservation and safety
Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing communications and customer engagement team that exemplifies collaboration, accountability and innovation
Oversee budgets, contracts and operational plans for communication and engagement programs
Cultivate productive relationships across all levels of the organization and with external partners, ensuring alignment and message consistency
Coordinate any public relations advertising or promotion programs, as directed
Develop talent: coach and mentor employees; support employee growth and development through leadership opportunities and professional development
Provide employees feedback through completion of performance appraisals and employee one-on-one meetings
Manage employee unacceptable behavior, poor work performance or policy violations, including the use of discipline when appropriate
Maintain financial oversight of budget or works with financial responsibility in mind
Plan for attrition through awareness of separation risks, cross-training, employee development and succession planning
Fulfilling responsibilities common to all Supervisory, Professional and Administrative positions as stated
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Public Relations or a related field
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in corporate communications, public relations or customer engagement
Proven experience leading teams and managing both strategic and operational communication functions
Have and maintain a valid driver's license Upon Hire
Pre-employment Background Check & Drug Screen Upon Hire
Efficient written and verbal communication skills, in English, to assist internal and external customers, co-workers and management professionally, regardless of provocation. This includes public speaking, media interaction and crisis messaging. (Advanced proficiency)
Strategic decision making abilities with the ability to balance long-term vision and near-term execution
Strong leadership, coaching and team development capabilities
Proficiency in digital communications, social media management and content creation tools
Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office and web content management systems
Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines and make sound decisions under pressure
Demonstrated success in building trusted relationships and maintaining credibility across diverse audiences
Proficiency with personal computers, tablets, and/or other electronic devices to include familiarity with, but not limited to, Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word) and enterprise wide software (e.g., SAP)
Ability to learn new or upgraded computer software as required
Preferred
Master's Degree
Experience in a regulated utility, public agency or similarly complex organization
Demonstrated on-air television experience as a reporter, anchor, or organizational spokesperson
Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) certification Upon Hire
Benefits
Hybrid Flexible Work Arrangement
Company
Metropolitan Utilities District
Metropolitan Utilities District mission is to provide safe, reliable and cost-effective natural gas and water services to our community.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Mark Myers
SVP, Chief Financial Officer
Sue Lobsiger
Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer
Recent News
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