Senior Director, Communications

Senior Director of CommunicationsThe City of Savannah is seeking an exceptional communications executive to lead how our organization communicates with residents, employees, community partners, the media and audiences across the country. The Senior Director of Communications is a member of the City Manager's executive team and serves as one of the City's principal advisors on communications, public engagement, media relations, reputation, brand and crisis communications.This is an opportunity to do more than lead a communications department. It is an opportunity to shape how people understand their city government, strengthen public trust, tell Savannah's story and help position one of America's most recognized cities for its next chapter.We are looking for a strategic leader, exceptional communicator and trusted advisor who understands that great public-sector communication is not simply about sharing information—it is about connecting people to their government and helping an organization communicate with clarity, credibility and purpose.If you are an accomplished communications leader ready to bring strategic thinking, creativity, exceptional judgment and a passion for public service to one of America's most distinctive cities, we invite you to apply. Help us tell Savannah's story—and help shape what comes next.The City of Savannah offers a competitive executive compensation and benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental and vision coverage; life insurance; supplemental life insurance options; short-term disability; retirement and deferred compensation opportunities; flexible spending accounts; tuition reimbursement; wellness programs; home purchase assistance; employee referral programs; and paid holidays.The Senior Director of Communications will lead the development and implementation of the City's comprehensive communications strategy and oversee the Communications & Marketing Department.Working closely with the City Manager, Mayor and City Council, executive leadership and departments throughout the organization, the Senior Director will help ensure that the City communicates proactively, consistently and effectively.The Senior Director will serve as a trusted strategic advisor, helping City leadership anticipate communications opportunities and challenges, navigate complex and sensitive issues and translate City priorities into messages that are clear, accessible and meaningful to the public.The position will also serve as a leading voice for the organization—building productive relationships with the media, community leaders and other stakeholders and helping strengthen Savannah's reputation locally, regionally and nationally.The City of Savannah is looking for more than an experienced communications professional. We are seeking an executive communications leader. The strongest candidates will combine exceptional communications expertise with sound judgment, executive presence, strategic thinking and an authentic commitment to public service.Our ideal candidate will bring:Strategic PerspectiveThe ability to understand the broader environment, anticipate what is coming and connect communications strategy to organizational goals.Exceptional JudgmentThe maturity and discretion to advise senior leaders and navigate complex, sensitive and high-profile situations.Executive PresenceA calm, confident and credible leadership style—particularly when circumstances are challenging or information is evolving rapidly.Outstanding Communication SkillsExceptional writing, speaking, storytelling and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to make complicated issues understandable and relevant.Media SophisticationStrong instincts regarding news, reputation and public perception and experience developing productive relationships with journalists and media organizations.Political & Organizational AcumenThe ability to work successfully within a complex organization and build trust with elected officials, executives, employees, community leaders and residents representing a wide range of perspectives.Digital FluencyAn understanding of how modern audiences consume information and the ability to integrate social media, digital platforms, video, web and traditional communications into a unified strategy.Data OrientationA commitment to using analytics, audience insights and measurable outcomes to improve communications performance.People LeadershipA demonstrated ability to build teams, develop talent, establish accountability and inspire excellent work. Strong leadership and people-management skills, particularly in guiding teams through growth and development, as well as experience driving operational consistency in a 24/7 environment.Commitment to ServiceA genuine belief in the importance of local government and the role effective communication plays in strengthening trust between government and the community it serves.For an accomplished communications leader who believes communications can build trust, strengthen organizations and make communities better, Savannah offers an extraordinary opportunity to make an impact.