The City of Lake Forest
Communications & Marketing Manager
The City of Lake Forest, Lake Forest, California, United States, 92630
At the
City of Lake Forest , we’re more than just a local government — we’re a team of people passionate about making the community a better place to live, work, and thrive. Every day, we connect with residents, businesses, and visitors to share important information, celebrate our city’s successes, and promote civic pride.
Under administration direction, the
Communications and Marketing Manager
plays a key leadership role in shaping how the community connects with the City. This position leads the Communications and Marketing Division and drives creative, strategic efforts that inform, inspire, and engage residents, businesses, and partners.
Key Responsibilities
Leads and manages all functions, policies, and projects within the Communications and Marketing Division.
Develops and delivers dynamic communication and marketing strategies that promote the City’s mission, services, and achievements.
Creates and oversees engaging content across multiple platforms—web, print, video, and social media—to share the City’s story and connect with the community.
Builds strong relationships with media, community groups, and partner organizations to ensure clear, consistent, and transparent communication.
Champions public engagement, ensuring residents have meaningful opportunities to learn about and participate in City initiatives.
Collaborates across departments to align messaging, support major projects, and promote key programs and events.
Advises senior leadership on communication strategy, public perception, and proactive messaging.
Promotes innovation and creativity in how the City communicates—using data, storytelling, and design to make information more accessible and impactful.
Why Work With Us
Help shape and serve how the community connects through meaningful public engagement and transparent communication.
Join a collaborative, supportive, and forward-thinking team environment.
Receive competitive compensation, outstanding benefits, and professional development opportunities.
How To Apply
Submit your application online along with a résumé and any supporting materials by December 2, 2025.
Attach a writing sample of published work, such as a staff report, internal memorandum, or a press release.
First round interviews expected to take place week of December 8, 2025.
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the class.
Assumes management responsibility for the services and activities of the Communications and Marketing Division including City communications, marketing, and community relations programs.
Manages and participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned functions and program areas; researches, recommends, implements, and administers policies, procedures, and changing business practices and processes for assigned area; coordinates, structures, and oversees ongoing or special programs as assigned.
Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; recommends, within departmental policy, appropriate service and staffing levels.
Plans, directs, coordinates, and reviews the work plan for assigned staff; assigns work activities, projects, and programs; reviews and evaluates work products, methods, and procedures; meets with staff to identify and resolve problems.
Participates in the selection of Communications and Marketing personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; implements discipline and termination procedures.
Oversees and participates in the development and administration of Communications and Marketing budget; participates in the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; monitors and approves expenditures; implements adjustments.
Participates in the planning and execution of the City’s emergency management plans and related communications; serves as a key public point of contact for media and intergovernmental agencies during emergencies that impact the City.
Coordinates with City staff, departments and divisions to communicate and market City programs and services; recommends communications and marketing strategies to City departments and divisions.
Oversees and directs in the production and distribution of various internal and external publications including newsletters, brochures, flyers, guides, and calendars; identifies topics, writes, edits, and designs publications; oversees topics, scripts, and production of City videos.
Administers and maintains the City’s website and social media accounts; distributes permissions to employees as appropriate; oversees the production of all written material and graphics posted on the City website and media accounts; develops, reviews, edits, and authorizes content.
Conducts difficult, and complex studies of new and existing programs and special projects; researches and analyzes organization structure, technical data, and fiscal impact to determine feasibility, resolve problems, and increase efficiency; consults with City personnel and outside agencies; develops recommendations; assists with the development of policies and procedures; participates in program implementation and monitoring activities; serves as project manager for assigned projects.
Manages the City’s “Ask Lake Forest” system to ensure customer service tickets are addressed accurately and timely; responds to tickets on behalf of City Council as necessary.
Monitors events/news surrounding issues important to the City and shares information with appropriate staff.
Develops, implements, and administers advertising campaigns for City programs and services. Composes press releases and communicates regularly with local media.
Prepares and presents comprehensive analytical and statistical reports that present and interpret data, identify alternatives, and present and justify conclusions, forecasts, and recommendations based on data summaries and other findings.
Resolves difficult, complex operational and administration issues; identifies issues and conducts research to find alternative solutions; makes and assists in the implementation of recommendations.
Plans, manages, and evaluates activities associated with difficult and complex contracts; researches and evaluates proposed contractual obligations and agreements; performs contract negotiations and administration; monitors compliance with applicable contractual agreements.
Provides assistance to management staff on difficult and complex matters; participates on and provides staff support to a variety of committees and boards; prepares and presents staff reports and other correspondence as appropriate and necessary.
Coordinates assigned services and project activities with other City programs, functions, boards, elected officials, committees, and task forces as well as external organizations and agencies and the general public; coordinates with, interacts with, and shares knowledge, issues, and status with appropriate parties.
Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the fields of communications and marketing.
Represents the City effectively in meetings with commissions, community groups, governmental bodies, the media, and the public; attends City Council meetings.
Responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive citizen complaints and inquiries.
Utilizes critical thinking skills through the use of logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Authors written materials, including staff reports, using a prescribed format and conforming to all rules, including punctuation, grammar, diction, and style; prepares staff reports on a variety of complex subjects for review by management staff and City Council.
Performs related duties as required.
Knowledge Of Operational characteristics, services and activities of a communications and marketing program; principles and practices of communications, marketing, and advertising; principles and practices of public administration; organization and operation of municipal government; methods and techniques of data collection, research, and report preparation; principles and practices of program development and administration; organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of programs, policies, and operational needs related to area of assignment; principles and practices of contract negotiation, preparation and monitoring; principles and applications of critical thinking and analysis; techniques and formulae for administrative, financial, and comparative analyses; methods and techniques of effective technical, administrative, and financial record keeping, report preparation, and presentation; recent developments, research methods, and current literature in the field of communications and marketing; terminology used in area of assignment; principles and practices of budget preparation and administration; principles and practices of supervision, training and performance evaluation; principles of business letter writing; office procedures, methods, and equipment including strong computer skills and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases; the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and State Incident Management System (SIMS); internet web site practices, methods and techniques; methods and techniques of social media use; principles, trends, methods, and techniques used in customer service, communications and marketing, public information and program education and promotion; English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Ability To Plan, organize, direct, coordinate, and evaluate a communications and marketing program; oversee, direct, and coordinate the work of lower level staff; select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff; design, coordinate, and implement an effective communications and marketing, and public relations program; perform a full range of responsible and varied professional, analytical duties in providing responsible staff support to a City department; oversee and participate in the development and administration of program goals, objectives and procedures; perform a range of professional analytical, programmatic, and administrative duties involving the use of independent judgment and personal initiative; collect, evaluate, and interpret varied information and data; research, analyze, and formulate recommendations, work plans, and activities regarding planning, technical, and administrative issues; analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals; develop recommendations for problematic areas and implement and monitor changes; read and interpret plans and specifications; prepare clear and concise technical, administrative and financial reports; prepare clear, accurate and concise tables, schedules, summaries and other materials in statistical and narrative form; establish and maintain various data collection, record keeping, tracking, filing, and reporting systems; exercise tact, diplomacy and political acumen in dealing with sensitive political, public policy, and community situations; research, negotiate, manage, and monitor contracts and agreements; understand the organization and operation of the City, assigned program, and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities; understand, interpret, and apply administrative and departmental policies and procedures as well as pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations; properly interpret, ensure compliance with, and make recommendations in accordance with laws, regulations and policies; identify and respond to community and organizational issues, concerns, and needs; coordinate multiple projects and meet critical deadlines; organize and prioritize timelines and project schedules in an effective and timely manner; participate in the preparation and administration of budgets; operate office equipment including computers and various commercially packaged software including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and graphics applications; work under steady pressure with frequent interruptions and a high degree of public contact by phone or in person; exercise good judgment and maintain confidentiality in maintaining critical and sensitive information, records, and reports; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education/Training/Experience A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is graduation from a four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, or a closely related field and five years of increasingly responsible experience in communications, public relations, marketing and management, and journalism including two years of administrative and supervisory responsibility; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. A Master’s Degree is desirable.
Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee is required to frequently sit and occasionally walk and stand to access work areas and files; stoop, kneel, or crouch to access or place records or files; lift and carry records and documents, typically weighing less than 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental Demands While performing the duties of this class, the employee must be able to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; interpret policies and procedures; use math and mathematical reasoning; learn and apply new information or new skills; work under deadlines with constant interruptions; and interact with City staff, other organizations and the public; occasionally required to deal with applicants and employees in conflict situations.
Work Environment The employee typically works in office conditions; the noise level is frequently quiet or moderately quiet.
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City of Lake Forest , we’re more than just a local government — we’re a team of people passionate about making the community a better place to live, work, and thrive. Every day, we connect with residents, businesses, and visitors to share important information, celebrate our city’s successes, and promote civic pride.
Under administration direction, the
Communications and Marketing Manager
plays a key leadership role in shaping how the community connects with the City. This position leads the Communications and Marketing Division and drives creative, strategic efforts that inform, inspire, and engage residents, businesses, and partners.
Key Responsibilities
Leads and manages all functions, policies, and projects within the Communications and Marketing Division.
Develops and delivers dynamic communication and marketing strategies that promote the City’s mission, services, and achievements.
Creates and oversees engaging content across multiple platforms—web, print, video, and social media—to share the City’s story and connect with the community.
Builds strong relationships with media, community groups, and partner organizations to ensure clear, consistent, and transparent communication.
Champions public engagement, ensuring residents have meaningful opportunities to learn about and participate in City initiatives.
Collaborates across departments to align messaging, support major projects, and promote key programs and events.
Advises senior leadership on communication strategy, public perception, and proactive messaging.
Promotes innovation and creativity in how the City communicates—using data, storytelling, and design to make information more accessible and impactful.
Why Work With Us
Help shape and serve how the community connects through meaningful public engagement and transparent communication.
Join a collaborative, supportive, and forward-thinking team environment.
Receive competitive compensation, outstanding benefits, and professional development opportunities.
How To Apply
Submit your application online along with a résumé and any supporting materials by December 2, 2025.
Attach a writing sample of published work, such as a staff report, internal memorandum, or a press release.
First round interviews expected to take place week of December 8, 2025.
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the class.
Assumes management responsibility for the services and activities of the Communications and Marketing Division including City communications, marketing, and community relations programs.
Manages and participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned functions and program areas; researches, recommends, implements, and administers policies, procedures, and changing business practices and processes for assigned area; coordinates, structures, and oversees ongoing or special programs as assigned.
Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; recommends, within departmental policy, appropriate service and staffing levels.
Plans, directs, coordinates, and reviews the work plan for assigned staff; assigns work activities, projects, and programs; reviews and evaluates work products, methods, and procedures; meets with staff to identify and resolve problems.
Participates in the selection of Communications and Marketing personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; implements discipline and termination procedures.
Oversees and participates in the development and administration of Communications and Marketing budget; participates in the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; monitors and approves expenditures; implements adjustments.
Participates in the planning and execution of the City’s emergency management plans and related communications; serves as a key public point of contact for media and intergovernmental agencies during emergencies that impact the City.
Coordinates with City staff, departments and divisions to communicate and market City programs and services; recommends communications and marketing strategies to City departments and divisions.
Oversees and directs in the production and distribution of various internal and external publications including newsletters, brochures, flyers, guides, and calendars; identifies topics, writes, edits, and designs publications; oversees topics, scripts, and production of City videos.
Administers and maintains the City’s website and social media accounts; distributes permissions to employees as appropriate; oversees the production of all written material and graphics posted on the City website and media accounts; develops, reviews, edits, and authorizes content.
Conducts difficult, and complex studies of new and existing programs and special projects; researches and analyzes organization structure, technical data, and fiscal impact to determine feasibility, resolve problems, and increase efficiency; consults with City personnel and outside agencies; develops recommendations; assists with the development of policies and procedures; participates in program implementation and monitoring activities; serves as project manager for assigned projects.
Manages the City’s “Ask Lake Forest” system to ensure customer service tickets are addressed accurately and timely; responds to tickets on behalf of City Council as necessary.
Monitors events/news surrounding issues important to the City and shares information with appropriate staff.
Develops, implements, and administers advertising campaigns for City programs and services. Composes press releases and communicates regularly with local media.
Prepares and presents comprehensive analytical and statistical reports that present and interpret data, identify alternatives, and present and justify conclusions, forecasts, and recommendations based on data summaries and other findings.
Resolves difficult, complex operational and administration issues; identifies issues and conducts research to find alternative solutions; makes and assists in the implementation of recommendations.
Plans, manages, and evaluates activities associated with difficult and complex contracts; researches and evaluates proposed contractual obligations and agreements; performs contract negotiations and administration; monitors compliance with applicable contractual agreements.
Provides assistance to management staff on difficult and complex matters; participates on and provides staff support to a variety of committees and boards; prepares and presents staff reports and other correspondence as appropriate and necessary.
Coordinates assigned services and project activities with other City programs, functions, boards, elected officials, committees, and task forces as well as external organizations and agencies and the general public; coordinates with, interacts with, and shares knowledge, issues, and status with appropriate parties.
Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the fields of communications and marketing.
Represents the City effectively in meetings with commissions, community groups, governmental bodies, the media, and the public; attends City Council meetings.
Responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive citizen complaints and inquiries.
Utilizes critical thinking skills through the use of logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Authors written materials, including staff reports, using a prescribed format and conforming to all rules, including punctuation, grammar, diction, and style; prepares staff reports on a variety of complex subjects for review by management staff and City Council.
Performs related duties as required.
Knowledge Of Operational characteristics, services and activities of a communications and marketing program; principles and practices of communications, marketing, and advertising; principles and practices of public administration; organization and operation of municipal government; methods and techniques of data collection, research, and report preparation; principles and practices of program development and administration; organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of programs, policies, and operational needs related to area of assignment; principles and practices of contract negotiation, preparation and monitoring; principles and applications of critical thinking and analysis; techniques and formulae for administrative, financial, and comparative analyses; methods and techniques of effective technical, administrative, and financial record keeping, report preparation, and presentation; recent developments, research methods, and current literature in the field of communications and marketing; terminology used in area of assignment; principles and practices of budget preparation and administration; principles and practices of supervision, training and performance evaluation; principles of business letter writing; office procedures, methods, and equipment including strong computer skills and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases; the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and State Incident Management System (SIMS); internet web site practices, methods and techniques; methods and techniques of social media use; principles, trends, methods, and techniques used in customer service, communications and marketing, public information and program education and promotion; English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Ability To Plan, organize, direct, coordinate, and evaluate a communications and marketing program; oversee, direct, and coordinate the work of lower level staff; select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff; design, coordinate, and implement an effective communications and marketing, and public relations program; perform a full range of responsible and varied professional, analytical duties in providing responsible staff support to a City department; oversee and participate in the development and administration of program goals, objectives and procedures; perform a range of professional analytical, programmatic, and administrative duties involving the use of independent judgment and personal initiative; collect, evaluate, and interpret varied information and data; research, analyze, and formulate recommendations, work plans, and activities regarding planning, technical, and administrative issues; analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals; develop recommendations for problematic areas and implement and monitor changes; read and interpret plans and specifications; prepare clear and concise technical, administrative and financial reports; prepare clear, accurate and concise tables, schedules, summaries and other materials in statistical and narrative form; establish and maintain various data collection, record keeping, tracking, filing, and reporting systems; exercise tact, diplomacy and political acumen in dealing with sensitive political, public policy, and community situations; research, negotiate, manage, and monitor contracts and agreements; understand the organization and operation of the City, assigned program, and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities; understand, interpret, and apply administrative and departmental policies and procedures as well as pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations; properly interpret, ensure compliance with, and make recommendations in accordance with laws, regulations and policies; identify and respond to community and organizational issues, concerns, and needs; coordinate multiple projects and meet critical deadlines; organize and prioritize timelines and project schedules in an effective and timely manner; participate in the preparation and administration of budgets; operate office equipment including computers and various commercially packaged software including word processing, spreadsheet, database, and graphics applications; work under steady pressure with frequent interruptions and a high degree of public contact by phone or in person; exercise good judgment and maintain confidentiality in maintaining critical and sensitive information, records, and reports; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education/Training/Experience A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is graduation from a four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, or a closely related field and five years of increasingly responsible experience in communications, public relations, marketing and management, and journalism including two years of administrative and supervisory responsibility; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. A Master’s Degree is desirable.
Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee is required to frequently sit and occasionally walk and stand to access work areas and files; stoop, kneel, or crouch to access or place records or files; lift and carry records and documents, typically weighing less than 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Mental Demands While performing the duties of this class, the employee must be able to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; interpret policies and procedures; use math and mathematical reasoning; learn and apply new information or new skills; work under deadlines with constant interruptions; and interact with City staff, other organizations and the public; occasionally required to deal with applicants and employees in conflict situations.
Work Environment The employee typically works in office conditions; the noise level is frequently quiet or moderately quiet.
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