BART
Manager of Media Relations
Marketing Statement Ride BART to a satisfying career that lets you both: 1) make a difference to Bay Area residents, and 2) enjoy excellent pay, benefits, and employment stability. BART is looking for people who like to be challenged, work in a fast‑paced environment, and have a passion for connecting riders to work, school and other places they need to go. BART offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, paid time off, and the CalPERS retirement program.
Job Summary PAY RATE:
Non‑Represented Pay Band 09 Minimum: $154,555.00/year – Maximum: $234,151.00/year
NOTE:
The starting negotiable salary offer will be between $154,555.00/year – $186,700.00/year commensurate with education and experience.
REPORTS TO:
Chief Communications Officer or designee
Current Assignment San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) is recruiting to fill a Manager of Media Relations position in the External Affairs Department. The Manager of Media Relations works in the Communications Department and manages all media relations activities for the District including the BART Police Department. The position will serve as one of several spokespersons for the District and will rotate on‑call duty to provide 24‑hour, 7‑days‑a‑week response. This position will take the lead on coordinating with the relevant BART Departments to arrange on‑scene media press conferences, tours, and interviews.
This position supports the Chief Communications Officer in the development of complex communication initiatives and works with team members and direct reports to execute both long‑term and rapid‑response communication strategies. It will assign staffing levels and duties to Communications Department staff during major service disruptions, crisis/emergency situations, and planned media outreach.
This role requires an absolute command of news judgment, grammar, and style; it demands effective written and oral communication, the ability to collaborate across many departments, and to explain complex concepts to new audiences. Work quickly and calmly under pressure is essential. The Manager may assume Chief Communications Officer responsibilities when necessary.
Qualifications
Proven track record of leading high‑impact media campaigns in a complex, multi‑stakeholder public agency or transportation environment with extensive on‑record and on‑camera experience.
Deep relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets, including transportation, infrastructure, and public‑safety reporters.
Expertise in navigating politically sensitive or high‑profile public issues with discretion and professionalism.
Experience integrating social media strategy with traditional media outreach to amplify messaging and engagement.
Strong project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
Examples of Duties
Manages and administers the operations and activities of the District’s Media Relations Program; oversees public relations initiatives and media events.
Serves as spokesperson for the District on a variety of issues affecting BART and the communities it serves.
Supports all BART department initiatives using media relations and public relations strategies.
Oversees the development of press releases, media advisories, fact sheets, website content, talking points, speeches, opinion pieces and presentations.
Manages the spokesperson on‑call calendar, ensuring continuous coverage during major service disruptions and other incidents.
Manages all responses to the news media; manages press conference planning and execution.
Stays apprised of industry trends and communication technologies; advises the Chief Communications Officer on strategic changes to maximize positive earned media.
Conducts analytical studies; evaluates and recommends improvements to policies, procedures, and service delivery methods; prepares formal reports and presentations.
Participates in budget development and administration, including forecasting, monitoring expenditures, and recommending adjustments.
Directs and coordinates the work of assigned staff and contractors; oversees planning, development, and implementation of programs, contracts, and internal procedures to ensure effective, efficient, and cost‑conscious execution of departmental goals and objectives.
Ensures timely response to legislative, media, and community requests.
Plans, organizes, and oversees the preparation of reports to the Board of Directors and other management staff.
Plans and coordinates staff meetings regarding assigned projects and programs; schedules meetings, prepares agendas, and arranges facilities.
Composes, compiles, and prepares correspondence, reports, and documents; reviews finished materials for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with District policies and procedures.
Serves as the Communications Department liaison within the District and with outside agencies; provides solutions and methodologies for effective support to District operations; negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial issues.
Might operate a vehicle when revenue transit service is unavailable to attend press events and meetings with the media and community groups.
Selects, trains, motivates, and evaluates assigned personnel; coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies and implements discipline and termination procedures.
Minimum Qualifications Experience:
Two (2) years of experience in the Communications Department of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District in a principal‑level role or as a Communications Officer.
Education:
Possession of a bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public administration, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
Equivalent Professional Experience:
Five (5) years of verifiable experience in marketing, communications, media, journalism, or closely related fields, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience.
Substitution:
Additional experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year‑for‑year basis.
Other Requirements:
Must be able to work overtime, on‑call, weekends, and travel; must possess a valid California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
Knowledge And Skills
Operations of a comprehensive communications program.
Development and implementation of media relations programs.
Policies governing release of information to the public.
Principles of crisis communication.
Research and analysis methods.
Project coordination and management principles.
Policy analysis and development methods.
Strategic planning and public outreach principles.
Contract administration practice.
Budget preparation and control principles.
Business math, accounting, and budgeting practices.
English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Supervision, training, and performance evaluation principles.
Public sector labor relations, contract interpretation, and grievance handling principles.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Skill In
Managing a comprehensive communications program.
Developing and implementing communications policies and guidelines.
Managing situations impacting public relations.
Selecting, supervising, training, and evaluating staff.
Participating in the development and administration of division goals, objectives, and procedures.
Overseeing contracted consultants and program administrators.
Preparing and administering large program budgets.
Preparing clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
Managing large‑scale projects.
Overseeing the maintenance of personnel files and records.
Delegating authority and responsibility.
Analyzing problems, identifying alternative solutions, projecting consequences, and implementing recommendations.
Researching, analyzing, and evaluating new service delivery methods and techniques.
Interpreting and applying federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations.
Communicating clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with stakeholders.
Equal Employment Opportunity The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants shall not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and above), religion, national origin (including language use restrictions), disability, ancestry, marital status, military status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.
The BART Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities or for religious reasons. Please advise the Human Resources Department of any special needs in advance of the examination by emailing at least five days prior to your examination date at employment@bart.gov.
Qualified veterans may be eligible to obtain additional veteran's credit in the selection process (effective Jan. 1, 2013). To obtain the credit, veterans must attach a DD214 discharge document or proof of disability and submit the Veteran's Preference Application before the closing date of the posting. For more information, visit the Veteran's Preference Policy and Application page at www.bart.gov/jobs.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Marketing Statement Ride BART to a satisfying career that lets you both: 1) make a difference to Bay Area residents, and 2) enjoy excellent pay, benefits, and employment stability. BART is looking for people who like to be challenged, work in a fast‑paced environment, and have a passion for connecting riders to work, school and other places they need to go. BART offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, paid time off, and the CalPERS retirement program.
Job Summary PAY RATE:
Non‑Represented Pay Band 09 Minimum: $154,555.00/year – Maximum: $234,151.00/year
NOTE:
The starting negotiable salary offer will be between $154,555.00/year – $186,700.00/year commensurate with education and experience.
REPORTS TO:
Chief Communications Officer or designee
Current Assignment San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) is recruiting to fill a Manager of Media Relations position in the External Affairs Department. The Manager of Media Relations works in the Communications Department and manages all media relations activities for the District including the BART Police Department. The position will serve as one of several spokespersons for the District and will rotate on‑call duty to provide 24‑hour, 7‑days‑a‑week response. This position will take the lead on coordinating with the relevant BART Departments to arrange on‑scene media press conferences, tours, and interviews.
This position supports the Chief Communications Officer in the development of complex communication initiatives and works with team members and direct reports to execute both long‑term and rapid‑response communication strategies. It will assign staffing levels and duties to Communications Department staff during major service disruptions, crisis/emergency situations, and planned media outreach.
This role requires an absolute command of news judgment, grammar, and style; it demands effective written and oral communication, the ability to collaborate across many departments, and to explain complex concepts to new audiences. Work quickly and calmly under pressure is essential. The Manager may assume Chief Communications Officer responsibilities when necessary.
Qualifications
Proven track record of leading high‑impact media campaigns in a complex, multi‑stakeholder public agency or transportation environment with extensive on‑record and on‑camera experience.
Deep relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets, including transportation, infrastructure, and public‑safety reporters.
Expertise in navigating politically sensitive or high‑profile public issues with discretion and professionalism.
Experience integrating social media strategy with traditional media outreach to amplify messaging and engagement.
Strong project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
Examples of Duties
Manages and administers the operations and activities of the District’s Media Relations Program; oversees public relations initiatives and media events.
Serves as spokesperson for the District on a variety of issues affecting BART and the communities it serves.
Supports all BART department initiatives using media relations and public relations strategies.
Oversees the development of press releases, media advisories, fact sheets, website content, talking points, speeches, opinion pieces and presentations.
Manages the spokesperson on‑call calendar, ensuring continuous coverage during major service disruptions and other incidents.
Manages all responses to the news media; manages press conference planning and execution.
Stays apprised of industry trends and communication technologies; advises the Chief Communications Officer on strategic changes to maximize positive earned media.
Conducts analytical studies; evaluates and recommends improvements to policies, procedures, and service delivery methods; prepares formal reports and presentations.
Participates in budget development and administration, including forecasting, monitoring expenditures, and recommending adjustments.
Directs and coordinates the work of assigned staff and contractors; oversees planning, development, and implementation of programs, contracts, and internal procedures to ensure effective, efficient, and cost‑conscious execution of departmental goals and objectives.
Ensures timely response to legislative, media, and community requests.
Plans, organizes, and oversees the preparation of reports to the Board of Directors and other management staff.
Plans and coordinates staff meetings regarding assigned projects and programs; schedules meetings, prepares agendas, and arranges facilities.
Composes, compiles, and prepares correspondence, reports, and documents; reviews finished materials for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with District policies and procedures.
Serves as the Communications Department liaison within the District and with outside agencies; provides solutions and methodologies for effective support to District operations; negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial issues.
Might operate a vehicle when revenue transit service is unavailable to attend press events and meetings with the media and community groups.
Selects, trains, motivates, and evaluates assigned personnel; coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies and implements discipline and termination procedures.
Minimum Qualifications Experience:
Two (2) years of experience in the Communications Department of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District in a principal‑level role or as a Communications Officer.
Education:
Possession of a bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public administration, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
Equivalent Professional Experience:
Five (5) years of verifiable experience in marketing, communications, media, journalism, or closely related fields, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience.
Substitution:
Additional experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year‑for‑year basis.
Other Requirements:
Must be able to work overtime, on‑call, weekends, and travel; must possess a valid California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
Knowledge And Skills
Operations of a comprehensive communications program.
Development and implementation of media relations programs.
Policies governing release of information to the public.
Principles of crisis communication.
Research and analysis methods.
Project coordination and management principles.
Policy analysis and development methods.
Strategic planning and public outreach principles.
Contract administration practice.
Budget preparation and control principles.
Business math, accounting, and budgeting practices.
English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Supervision, training, and performance evaluation principles.
Public sector labor relations, contract interpretation, and grievance handling principles.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Skill In
Managing a comprehensive communications program.
Developing and implementing communications policies and guidelines.
Managing situations impacting public relations.
Selecting, supervising, training, and evaluating staff.
Participating in the development and administration of division goals, objectives, and procedures.
Overseeing contracted consultants and program administrators.
Preparing and administering large program budgets.
Preparing clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
Managing large‑scale projects.
Overseeing the maintenance of personnel files and records.
Delegating authority and responsibility.
Analyzing problems, identifying alternative solutions, projecting consequences, and implementing recommendations.
Researching, analyzing, and evaluating new service delivery methods and techniques.
Interpreting and applying federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations.
Communicating clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with stakeholders.
Equal Employment Opportunity The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants shall not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and above), religion, national origin (including language use restrictions), disability, ancestry, marital status, military status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.
The BART Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities or for religious reasons. Please advise the Human Resources Department of any special needs in advance of the examination by emailing at least five days prior to your examination date at employment@bart.gov.
Qualified veterans may be eligible to obtain additional veteran's credit in the selection process (effective Jan. 1, 2013). To obtain the credit, veterans must attach a DD214 discharge document or proof of disability and submit the Veteran's Preference Application before the closing date of the posting. For more information, visit the Veteran's Preference Policy and Application page at www.bart.gov/jobs.
#J-18808-Ljbffr