Director of Public Affairs

Join the Franklin County Coroner’s Office as a Director of Communications & Public Information Officer (PIO) (Working Title: Director of Public Affairs). This role is responsible for managing communications, promoting transparency, and ensuring accurate and timely dissemination of information across multiple platforms. The ideal candidate is a skilled communicator who thrives in fast-paced environments and is passionate about building public trust through clear, consistent messaging.

Offerings: Exceptional healthcare benefits (medical, optical, and dental), Pension - Ohio Public Employees Retirement, tuition reimbursement, and paid time off (vacation, sick, personal, and 12 paid holidays). 

 The Director of Communications & Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Coroner’s Office is responsible for leading all external and internal communications, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, transparency, and sensitivity. This role serves as the official spokesperson for the office, communicating complex and often sensitive information related to death investigations, autopsy findings, and public health concerns.

The Director ensures timely dissemination of information to the public, media, and stakeholders while maintaining compliance with legal, ethical, and confidentiality requirements. This position plays a critical role in maintaining public trust, supporting grieving families, and coordinating communications during high-profile or crisis incidents.

The Director is responsible for developing and updating communication materials in print, online, video and social media formats, in English and some materials in other languages.

The Director serves as back up to the Director of Operations for emergency preparedness planning and readiness in the Coroner’s Office.

Working conditions are in an office environment. This is a salary position; hours are Monday through Friday and additional hours may be required as operations dictate.

These duties are illustrative only. Position may perform some or all these duties or other job-related duties as assigned.

1.Serve as the official spokesperson for the Coroner’s Office, handling all media inquiries and public statements.

2.Develop, implement, and manage strategic communications and public affairs plans.

3.Lead crisis and emergency communications, including mass fatalities and high-profile cases.

4.Ensure all public communications comply with legal, ethical, and confidentiality requirements.

5.Prepare and disseminate press releases, case updates, and official reports with accuracy and sensitivity.

6.Coordinate messaging with law enforcement, public health agencies, and government partners.

7.Oversee digital communications, including website content and social media platforms.

8.Monitor media coverage and public sentiment; respond to misinformation as needed.

9.Advise executive leadership on communication strategies, risk, and reputation management.

10.Translate complex forensic and medical information into clear, understandable language for public release.

11.Develop and maintain crisis communication protocols and standard operating procedures.

12.Manage and train staff on communications matters and provide media training to leadership and subject matter experts. 

Occasional Duties 

1.Coordinate and facilitate press conferences, briefings, and public information sessions.

2.Support communication efforts with decedents’ families by assisting with clear, compassionate messaging (as appropriate).

3.Develop and deliver community outreach and public education programs.

4.Represent the office at community meetings, professional events, and interagency working groups.

5.Assist in the preparation of annual reports, public data releases, and special publications.

6.Participate in after-hours, on-call rotation for urgent or breaking incidents.

7.Contribute to grant applications related to public information and outreach.

8.Attend operational briefings when communication support is required.

Requirements

The qualifications for this position require a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Health, Criminal Justice, or a related field or an equivalent combination of experience. 2 to 4 years’ experience in public affairs, crisis communications, or media relations. Strong understanding of medicolegal death investigation processes or ability to quickly acquire this subject matter expertise. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, especially in high-sensitivity situations. Demonstrated experience handling crisis communications and high-profile media cases. Knowledge of applicable laws regarding public records, confidentiality, and privacy. Ability to balance transparency with investigative integrity and family sensitivity. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with grieving families and diverse communities. High level of discretion, professionalism, and emotional intelligence. Knowledge of website content management, social media, video production, and electronic delivery platforms. Must have experience driving content to targeted audiences, particularly in social media settings.

Preferred Requirements: 

Previous experience: 7–10+ years of experience in public affairs, crisis communications, or media relations. Experience in government, public safety, healthcare, or medicolegal environments strongly preferred. Working with public and elected officials a strong plus. Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field

Certification - Accreditation in Public Relations (APR).

Certifications or training in crisis communication or emergency management (e.g., NIMS/ICS)

Skills:  Excellent English language communication skills, particularly in writing, including the ability to adapt written and spoken messages for a wide variety of audiences via a wide variety of mediums.  Able to write clearly and concisely in journalistic style.  Able to adapt to rapidly changing environments by using problem solving, analytical, and team building skills. Excellent organizational skills.

Fluency or conversancy in Spanish or another language widely used in Franklin County is a plus.