Salary range: $3,501,526 - $4,709,163 per annum and any allowance (s) attached to the post
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES OF THE SECTION
To ensure the creation and maintenance of a positive public image compatible with the goals and
objectives of the Local Authority, building public goodwill and fostering positive and beneficial working relationships with stakeholders.
JOB PURPOSE
Reporting to the Manager, Public Relations and Communications, the Public Relations and
Communications Officer is responsible for the development and management of an effective
communications strategy that will promote and position the Local Authority’s brand and build better
public understanding of local government, and the Local Authority’s services,
milestones, and achievements.
KEY OUTPUTS
• Public Relations plans and programmes developed, implemented and evaluated
• Public activities and events planned and executed
• Corporate communication plans developed and executed
• Corporate Promotional event plans developed and executed
• Events and activities executed
• Communication content researched/written/edited/produced
• Communication materials designed/produced
• Programme implementation reports developed and submitted
• Communications budgets developed, submitted and adhered to
• Market and marketing research
• Attitude survey reports
• Community/public relations fostered
• Image of the Corporation promoted
• Corporation represented at public events
• Records and files maintained
• Reports researched and compiled
• Websites and social media sites updated/maintained
MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• Bachelors Degree in Mass Communication, Public Relations or related discipline
• Three (3) years experience working in public relations, journalism or related field
Technical/Professional Responsibilities
• Support the development and implementation the Local Authority’s corporate communications
plan.
• Participate in the development of corporate communication policies, plans, and strategies.
• Assist in planning and executing communication activities and events.
• Create crisis management communication strategies to address problems promptly.
• Coordinate and oversee the delivery of clear, consistent, and credible communications.
• Plan and execute events to generate publicity and favorable portrayal of the Local Authority.
• Maintain positive relationships with program directors, news editors, elected officials, and
community groups.
• Develop community involvement programs for social and economic development.
• Use corporate communication techniques to market the Local Authority’s services and enhance its
reputation.
• Conduct research, monitor and analyze changes in public attitudes towards the Local
Authority.
• Monitor feedback on public relations programs and develop recommendations for continuous
improvement.
• Attend meetings and events aimed at fostering good public relations.
• Draft regular reports and collaborate with the Manager for effective teamwork.
• Maintain accurate records, including a media call log.
• Respond to inquiries from the public, media, and other organizations.
• Coordinate mass-mailings of communication materials.
• Represent the Section on internal, media, or project teams, where deemed necessary.
• Assist in preparing organizational documents, annual reports, and corporate profiles.
• Collaborate across the Local Authority to develop public relations plans supporting key
initiatives.
• Write and distribute news releases for important Local Authority information and events.
• Research, draft, edit, and produce newsletters, magazines, pamphlets, and brochures.
• Proofread communication materials for errors.
• Represent the Local Authority at events, press conferences, interviews, launches, exhibitions, etc.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with the media and interest groups.
• Liaise with the Jamaica Information Service for special services.
• Arrange photo shoots, interviews, and manage photography.
• Plan and execute external and employee opinion surveys.
• Update and maintain the organization's online calendar website and social media pages.
• Manage telephone listings for inclusion in directories.
• Monitor print, electronic, and news media for relevant issues.
• Maintain the Local Authority's electronic photo archives.
• Observe and report on relevant social, economic, and political trends which may influence
public relations administration.
• Participate in staff recruitment for the Unit.
•Liaise with telecommunication providers for the maintenance of the Corporation’s telecommunications PBX and internet services.
Other Responsibilities
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the Manager, Public Relations &
Communications.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
• The internal and external environment is monitored to reveal trends which indicate that the public relations strategies are resulting in positive changes.
• The Corporation’s public image is enhanced through effective public relations.
• Strategic and operational work plans and reports are accurately completed and submitted within the stipulated timeframe.
• Expenditures are in keeping with approved budgetary allocation.
• Professionalism, integrity, diplomacy and initiative are consistently maintained at a high level.
• Activities and events are planned and executed efficiently and effectively and with maximum
impact
• Plans and programmes are developed, implemented, reviewed and evaluated on a timely and
ongoing basis
• Plans and programmes are relevant, timely, appropriate and support the Corporation’s initiatives,
corporate goals and the promotion of a positive public image
• Tact, diplomacy, sensitivity and professionalism are exhibited in interacting with the public and
media
• Cooperative working relationships are fostered and maintained
• Positive community relations are fostered through public relations programmes, including
involvement in community initiatives
• Image of the Corporation is promoted and enhanced
• Communication materials produced are creative, innovative and impactful
• Content of Corporation’s website, social media sites and calendar of events are updated on a
timely and ongoing basis
• Records and filing systems (electronic and paper) are developed, organized and maintained
• Reports are thorough and insightful; conclusions/recommendations sound; and are prepared
and submitted in a timely manner
• Awareness of and sensitivity to the local political, social and economic environment is
demonstrated
AUTHORITY
• To initiate and evaluate Corporate Communication & Marketing plans and programmes
• To initiate and evaluate public relations plans and programmes
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES
Core
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills demonstrating correct standard English usage
• Sound knowledge of the role and functions of the Corporation
• Excellent editing skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact with various levels of the public
• Possession of a creative and innovative mindset and skills
• Ability to determine priorities and handle multiple tasks to meet deadlines
• Ability to build and sustain professional, cooperative and effective working relationships
• Team oriented but able to work independently to accomplish tasks
• Ability to demonstrate good judgment, sensitivity to and respect for a diverse public
• Ability to be discreet and diplomatic in handling sensitive information and issues in a sometimes
stressful environment
• Possess outgoing personality, self-confidence and a positive attitude
• Keen awareness of and sensitivity to the local political, social and economic environment
• Detailed and results oriented
• Presentable professional appearance
Technical
• Well-developed knowledge of the principles and methods of communications and public relations
• Knowledge of the principles of public and human psychology
• Knowledge of survey methodologies
• Effective public speaking and presentation skills
• Well-developed computer skills utilizing different software such as Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook and Publisher).
SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB
• May be required to travel island-wide, stay overnight and engage in activities and events
outside of normal office hours, including evenings, weekends and Public Holidays.
• Required to have a valid Driver’s Licence and a reliable motorcar.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS, YOU MAY EMAIL CEO@STMARYMC.GOV.JM
Kindly address all applications to:
Chief Executive Officer
St. Mary Municipal Corporation
13 Hodgson Street
Port Maria P.O.,
St. Mary
Email: ceo@stmarymc.gov.jm
Closing date: May 29, 2026
We thank all applicants and advise that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.