Communications Manager (UTC INTERNAL ONLY)

Communications Manager The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) seeks to fill the role of Communications Manager within the Communications Division. This position plans, develops, and administers extensive marketing, public outreach and engagement programs based on the commission's strategic goals, performing ongoing and long-term monitoring to ensure efforts comply with program requirements and expected outcomes.
This opportunity is ONLY open to current UTC employees. No other applications will be considered.
The starting salary offer will be determined based on the successful candidates' qualifications within the budgeted salary range of $104,683 - $115,848 annually. However, there is an ability for growth and development in this salary for the individual once appointed.
This recruitment is open until June 2, at 11:59pm. UTC reserves the right to make a hiring decision and/or choose to close or extend this recruitment at any given time.
Although this is a hybrid opportunity, the successful incumbent must reside within Washington state and must be available to report to the Lacey, Washington headquarters building when needed.
Occasional travel during and outside normal work hours throughout the state for public meeting and other purposes.
Some of What You'll Do Manage a team of three staff members responsible for media relations and external affairs, website maintenance and improvement, digital accessibility, internal communications, digital media, public outreach, Plain Talk, and special projects and initiatives.
Develop and implement communications strategies and tactics and respond to media and public inquiries and requests for information about matters before the commission. Establish and maintain productive relationships with the media.
Work directly with the Communications Director to ensure accurate and current public information materials are available and accessible to consumers, regulated industries, and stakeholders. Implement internal and external communications strategies and tactics.
Act as Plain Talk lead to ensure inclusive and accessible communication for all channels – digital, print, advertising, etc. Ensure all agency communications are clear, easy to understand, and accessible to all. Provide guidance to leaders and staff on Plain Talk best practices, design best practices and brand standards. Lead efforts to ensure agencywide adherence to standards.
Manage the agency's social media communications program. Maintain an active presence on the commission's social media channels.
Manage the agency's internal communications program. Provide guidance to leaders and staff about best practices for communicating across the agency, including timing, tone, channels and audiences. Develop processes and policies to reinforce the best practices. Identify and implement improvements to increase how employees engage with their colleagues and leaders.
Work with communications team to develop and distribute the weekly Good Morning UTC internal staff newsletter, IS quarterly newsletter and various external newsletters including UTC Connections and Mover News. Ensure each issue meets high editorial standards and is editor-in-chief of the publications.
Write and produce informational materials for the news media, general public and commission staff to educate and inform the public and the news media. This includes news releases, presentations, reports to the governor, speeches, and various other communications.