Find & Apply For Communications / Public Relations Manager Jobs in DeKalb, Illinois

Communications Manager

• 3.6 901 South 4th Street, DeKalb, IL 60115 $85,000 - $105,000 a year - Full-time Apply with Indeed DeKalb

CUSD 428

Job Description Position Title:

Communications Manager Department:

Superintendent Office Supervisor:

Superintendent Calendar:

260

Days FLSA Status:

Exempt Affiliation:

Unaffiliated Date:

September 24, 2026 Position Summary The Communications Manager develops and implements communication strategies and plans. Core responsibilities include overseeing, developing, and disseminating communication materials about district issues and processes. This position manages media relations and serves as the news media's primary point of contact and district spokesperson. Additionally, the role entails managing the district's social media and district-level website content; providing communications and public relations counsel to the superintendent, school board, and administrators; assisting in managing crisis communications during school and district emergencies or controversies; and serving as the District Public Information Officer (PIO). The Communications Manager also develops and implements public engagement strategies, when appropriate, to involve the community in decision-making and planning processes, while working to improve communication between the central office and schools. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Communications Ensures that all actions comply with established Board policies and the mission, vision, and values defined by the district and the Board of Education. Carries out such additional duties as required or as conditions necessitate. Participates in job training and professional growth opportunities in order to enhance the ability to perform the essential functions of the job. Develop and implement the district's communications strategy. Write, edit, and distribute a variety of content for district-wide communications across multiple channels. Directs and implements the district's advertising and promotional activities. Produce the District's Annual Report. Manage the Communications department budget. Manage district brand identity to ensure compliance with brand and accessibility standards, and build brand awareness and positioning among internal and external audiences. Manage the district website content management system and other mass communications and digital platforms. Collaborate with all district departments and schools to ensure all website materials are current, relevant, and reflect current D428 priorities and announcements. Oversee the development and distribution of informational materials about district policies, programs, and plans, including news releases, external information campaigns, and internal employee communications. Consult with district staff to transform complex information into engaging content that informs our families, staff, and stakeholders. Communications Building Liaisons Lead the work with Communication Liaisons at each school to bolster family and community engagement. Provide training on communication best practices, social media platforms, and other needs as they arise to support effective school-wide communication with families. Provide support with developing, maintaining, and continuously improving social media strategy Public Relations Serve as the point of contact and liaison for community-based organizations, news organizations, and other entities, as well as the designated Public Information Officer. Remain current with FEMA and the National Incident Management System (NIMS) crisis communications training, specifically related to Public Information Officer responsibilities, by completing and maintaining courses ICS-100, ICS-200, IS-700.A, and

IS-700.B.

Design and lead promotional and marketing campaigns. Attend all Board meetings and major district events. This will require work in the evenings and weekends as needed. Build relationships with students, families, staff, and appropriate community agents as necessary to establish collaborative partnerships. Supports Family Engagement in partnership with all schools. Qualifications, Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field, preferred Education, community engagement, and/or public policy background, preferred Minimum of five (5) years of experience driving complex projects requiring significant cross-functional collaboration in an educational organization. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the communications field or related experience. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Self-directed problem-solver with effective verbal and written communication skills. Understanding of District policies, systems, and structures. Exceptional negotiation and conflict resolution skills. Effective stakeholder engagement with digital media and social media platforms. Proficient with media creation tools. Proficient with Google and Microsoft Office tools. Understanding of website content management systems Organized, flexible, able to work in a fast-paced environment, handles multiple tasks well, and adapts to priorities that change quickly. Demonstrates a sense of urgency in accomplishing goals and objectives. Supervisory Responsibility Supervisory responsibility for the Website and Social Media Specialist. Position

TRS/IMRF

Eligible Yes Work Environment This job operated in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment. Travel Travel is primarily local during the business day, although some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Pay:

$85,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person