Communications & Media Strategy Manager

Salary:

$92,747.20 - $106,537.60 Annually
Location :

Gallatin County Courthouse- 311 W. Main St, Bozeman, MT
Job Type:

Full-Time
Job Number:

00818
Department:

County Administrator
Opening Date:

04/10/2026

POSITION OVERVIEW
This position, located in the County Administrator's Office, is responsible for developing, directing, and managing Gallatin County's comprehensive communications, public information, and media relations strategy. The Communications & Media Strategy Manager ensures consistent, transparent, and timely messaging that strengthens public trust, increases awareness of County programs and initiatives, and enhances engagement with residents and stakeholders. Key responsibilities include designing and executing multi-channel communication strategies, managing media relations and crisis communications, coordinating internal communications, and managing digital, print, video, and social communications efforts. The position reports directly to the County Administrator and works directly with elected officials, department heads, and community partners.

This position does not currently supervise other personnel but serves as the County's lead authority on communications and media strategy.
A. COMMUNICATIONS LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGY
Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive communications and media strategy that aligns with County priorities and enhances visibility and public understanding.
Serve as the County's primary media contact and manages appropriate representation of the County in interviews, press conferences, and public forums as needed.
Proactively identify emerging issues, trends, and opportunities to position the County's leadership and programs positively in local, regional, and state media.
Build and maintain strong relationships with members of the media, community organizations, and government communications professionals.
Develop and oversee crisis communications protocols, including preparation of talking points, internal communication coordination, and public response during emergencies.
Advise County leadership, elected officials, and department heads on communication policy, best practices, messaging consistency, and media engagement strategies.
Lead the creation and production of compelling content - including press releases, feature stories, op-eds, speeches, reports, and digital media.
Manage the County's social media and digital presence, ensuring accuracy, responsiveness, and engagement with residents through appropriate platforms.
Plan and manage public information campaigns on major initiatives, policies, and community programs.
Serve as the on-site media contact for County events, announcements, and emergency operations.
B. INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Develop and manage internal communication channels, including the County's employee newsletter, internal updates, and intranet content.
Facilitate consistent and transparent communication across County departments and with the Board of County Commissioners.
Support public meetings, community events, and special projects that promote civic participation and engagement.
Ensure communications are inclusive and accessible to all residents, reflecting Gallatin County's values of transparency, service, and accountability.
C. ADMINISTRATIVE AND COLLABORATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintain open and effective communication among County leadership, staff, and stakeholders.
Manage relevant data collection and analyze data on communication effectiveness and media coverage to guide continuous improvement.
Manage special projects, media events, and public outreach efforts as directed by the County Administrator.
Attend meetings, training, and continuing education related to government communications and media relations.
In the event of a declared emergency, assist in emergency communications and community information efforts during response and recovery phases.

QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires a deep understanding of modern communications, media relations, and public engagement strategies. The incumbent must demonstrate strong editorial judgment, digital media proficiency, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.

Knowledge of:
Strategic communications planning and implementation
Media and public relations best practices
Crisis and emergency communications
Government operations, transparency laws, and public information standards
Digital and social media platforms, analytics, and engagement strategies
Skill in:

Managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines
Writing, editing, and storytelling across multiple formats and audiences
Building and maintaining relationships with the media and public
Utilize data driven measurements to manage communication impact and effectiveness
Exercising sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism
Ability to:

Develop and execute comprehensive communications plans
Work independently while collaborating effectively with leadership and departments
Represent the County with integrity and professionalism in public and media settings
Manage sensitive and confidential information appropriately
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, political science, or a related field, plus at least three to five years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, or public information. Prior government or public-sector experience is strongly preferred.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
As a condition of hire, the final candidate will be required to successfully pass a criminal history check and background investigation.

For application consideration, the following documents are required to be submitted when you apply online:

Cover Letter
Resume
Three (3) work references
Gallatin County is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment on the basis of merit and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, or physical or mental disability.
HEALTH BENEFITS:

Individual health benefits premium is paid at 100% for full-time employees and pro-rated based on hours worked for part-time employees
Includes limited vision and dental coverage (Dental is provided by MetLife and includes a dental buy-up option)
Dependent health benefits premium is offered at very low costs
Coverage is effective the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment
Talkspace: In-Network behavioral health support through virtual counseling & psychiatry
Optional Supplemental Coverage is offered through Mutual of Omaha including Voluntary Accident Policy, Voluntary Critical Illness Policy and Voluntary Life Insurance Policy (also available for dependents)
FREE unlimited access and care to PMR Clinic East. This is a private Clinic and is available to all employees and family members who are enrolled in our health benefits.
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS:

Optional pre-tax, out-of-pocket medical expenses & day care expenses

COUNTY PAID LIFE INSURANCE:

$50,000 Group Life Insurance Policy (eligible employees only) (age reductions apply)

COUNTY PAID LONG TERM DISABLITY INSURANCE:

Eligible employees only, benefit duration shortens once a specific age is reached

RETIREMENT:

County employees are covered by the Public Employee's Retirement System (PERS)
County Deputies and Detention Officers are covered by the Sheriff's Retirement System (SRS)
An optional supplemental 457 deferred compensation plan/ROTH is available through Empower and Nationwide
PAID PARENTAL LEAVE:

Eligible employees are offered a maximum of six weeks (240 hours) of paid parental leave for the bonding and care of a newborn child or adoption of a child
SICK AND VACATION LEAVE:

Employees accrue 12 sick days and 3 weeks of vacation per year, depending on years of service. (Hours are pro-rated for part-time employees)
Leave starts accruing on an employee's date of hire and can be used as soon as time is in the books.
HOLIDAYS:

The County observes 11 legal holidays in even numbered years (Federal Election Day) and 10 legal holidays in odd numbered years.
A Floating Holiday is available to eligible employees after six months.
HEALTH CLUB MEMBERSHIPS:

Discounted rates are offered at participating clubs with payroll deduction.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM:

Offers a confidential counseling hotline and up to six sessions with a Licensed Professional Counselor at no cost to the employee. This program is also available to dependents.
WORLDWIDE TRAVEL EMERGENCY PROGRAM AND WILL & LEGAL PREPARATION SERVICES:

Limited 24/7 services anywhere in the world
Will and limited legal service
TUITION ASSISTANCE:

The County offers partial reimbursement of qualifying tuition expenses
BILINGUAL PAY:

Gallatin County allows for bilingual pay to employees that provide translation services to County departments and offices. The bilingual pay allows for extra compensation to employees that provide this service.