The Director of Marketing and Communications leads the strategic development and execution of integrated communications efforts that advance the mission of the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA). This role is responsible for shaping and elevating the public narrative around equitable urban redevelopment, economic growth, housing, and neighborhood revitalization across Pittsburgh.
As a senior leader, the Director serves as a trusted advisor to the Deputy Executive Director, Executive Director, and leadership team, ensuring that communications strategies effectively support policy priorities, major development initiatives, and partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels.
Job title: Director of Marketing and Communications
Department: Communications
Divisional Unit: Central Operations
Starting Salary: $106,000 Annually
Reports to: Deputy Executive Director (Primary) and Executive Director
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
Strategic Communications & Narrative Development
• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with URA priorities, including equitable development, affordable housing, small business support, and infrastructure investment.
• Shape messaging that reflects Pittsburgh’s evolving economic landscape, honoring its industrial legacy while promoting innovation and inclusive growth.
• Ensure consistent brand voice and messaging across all platforms, initiatives, and departments.
Media Relations & Public Affairs
• Serve as the primary media contact and organizational spokesperson or oversee spokesperson responsibilities.
• Cultivate relationships with local, regional, and national media.
• Oversee press releases, media advisories, op-eds, and proactive storytelling.
Organizational Promotion
• Develop and execute sales and marketing plans and establish revenue targets in partnership with the Finance Department.
• Create marketing campaigns which generate quality leads while ensuring promotional efforts are aligned with sales targets and organizational goals.
• Design marketing materials and launch new advertisement strategies in alignment with organizational objectives.
• Analyze sales data and market trends to adjust strategies, ensuring sales targets are achieved.
Community Engagement & Public Transparency
• Ensure transparent, accessible, and culturally responsive communication with Pittsburgh’s diverse neighborhood
• Support outreach related to redevelopment projects, including public meetings and stakeholder engagement.
• Address community concerns such as displacement, affordability, and equitable development
Digital Strategy & Content Development
• Oversee the website, social media, email communications, and multimedia content.
• Highlight project milestones, funding opportunities, and community impact.
• Use analytics to improve engagement and reach.
Crisis Communications & Issues Management
• Develop and maintain crisis communications protocols.
• Provide real-time guidance to leadership during emerging issues.
• Identify reputational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Leadership & Team Management
• Lead the coordination, logistics, and document packaging of the monthly URA Board Meetings in collaboration with the Government Affairs and Legal departments
• Lead and mentor Communications staff.
• Manage the departmental budget, consultants, and vendors.
• Establish KPIs and evaluate Communications department effectiveness.
Position Requirements and Qualifications:
Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Public Administration, Journalism, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 8 to 10+ years of progressive communications and marketing experience, preferably in government or economic development.
• Experience with leading branding and promotional strategies on behalf of an organization
• Experience developing and tracking KPI’s and campaign results to optimize marketing spend and strategy
• Experience leading and managing marketing and/or communications teams
• Experience with redevelopment authorities or public-sector organizations is strongly preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills.
• Strong media relations and crisis communications experience.
• Strong understanding of government and public political structures.
• Ability to engage diverse communities and navigate complex political environments.
• Familiarity with community and economic programs and projects.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience leading strategic communications and crisis communications and branding.
• Experience in post-industrial or legacy cities.
• Knowledge of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and economic landscape.
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, including travel to County and City offices
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 lbs., standing, sitting, reaching and stretching
• Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone.
Disclaimers:
The URA is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, color, gender, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, sexual orientation, g ender identity/expression, political, and/or union affiliation.
AN APPLICANT MUST BE A CITY OF PITTSBURGH RESIDENT OR BECOME ONE AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT AT THE URA.
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