DEPUTY ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (EXECUTIVE LEVEL)

About the role

• APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FROM: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
• DIVISION: CHIEF OF STAFF
• REPORTING LOCATION: 8000 N. STADIUM
• WORKDAYS & HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 5PM

Description of Duties/ Essential Functions

The Houston Health Department (HHD) seeks an experienced, strategic Chief Communications Officer to lead departmental communications. This leader provides high level direction to ensure transparent, effective public messaging, responsible stewardship of information, and alignment with organizational priorities. This role strengthens HHD’s mission by shaping communication strategy, enhancing public engagement, and building trust in the department’s public health programs and services.

The key role oversees media relations, digital communications, public information, internal messaging, content development, brand management, and crisis response to ensure consistent, accurate, and timely communication to internal and external audiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all communications functions, including media relations, digital strategy, written communications, content development, and crisis response.
• Represent the Houston Health Department at press events, public meetings, civic and council sessions, and community engagements.
• Serve as the department's primary public information officer, relaying information, promoting publicity and fielding questions for all public/media related activities.
• Manage daily public information operations, including oversight of staff responsible for research, statistical and historical data compilation, and response coordination.
• Prepare and oversee distribution of media responses, interview materials, public inquiries, and City Council requests with accuracy and promptness.
• Develop and implement strategic communication plans and narrative frameworks that support long term departmental and City initiatives.
• Oversee departmental brand management to ensure a consistent visual and narrative identity across all public facing materials.
• Direct internal communications to ensure staff receive clear, timely, and accurate information related to policies, programs, and organizational priorities.
• Provide leadership, supervision, and strategic direction to communications and public engagement staff.
• Coordinate crisis and emergency communications, serving as a key advisor to senior leadership and ensuring rapid, accurate dissemination of critical information.
• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, government officials, and local, regional, and national media to support effective communication efforts.
• Monitor public feedback, media reporting, and emerging issues to inform communication decisions and enhance community engagement.
• Promote departmental activities through appropriate media channels and ensure all messaging reflects departmental values and priorities.
• Handle highly sensitive or confidential information with discretion and sound judgment.
• Ensure all communication practices comply with City policies, legal requirements, and industry standards.
• Operate in a fast paced, collaborative environment, frequently engaging with elected officials, department directors, and community stakeholders.
• Maintain trusted relationships with media outlets to support accurate coverage of City and departmental programs and initiatives.

Working Conditions

• This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration or a closely related field.

Experience Requirements

• Seven years of administrative experience are required, with at least three of those years in a managerial capacity.
• A Master's degree may be substituted for two years of experience.

License Requirements

NonePreference will be given to candidates who have the following

• Expertise in media relations, digital strategy, crisis communications, public information, and brand management.
• Strong leadership and team management experience in communications or public engagement settings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and respond swiftly during emergencies or high visibility events.

Additional information

Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.SELECTION / SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED

Department may administer skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION No

If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

Salary Information

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Application Procedures

Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.