Chief or Marketing and Media, Operations Officer II (NCS) - Baltimore City Recreation and Parks

ABOUT THE ROLE Baltimore City’s Department of Recreation and Parks (BCRP) is seeking a creative, strategic, and experienced leader to serve as the Chief of Marketing and Media Services. Reporting to the Deputy of Administration, this role leads the department’s marketing efforts, manages the daily operations of the marketing and media office, and serves as the agency’s spokesperson. The ideal candidate will develop comprehensive marketing strategies, build brand awareness, manage crises, and represent the department before media, legislative committees, and major events. This is a non-civil service position. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and implement a comprehensive annual strategic marketing and communications plan aligned with agency priorities - Develop proactive communications strategies to strengthen public trust and protect the agency’s reputation - Serve as communications advisor to executive leadership, preparing messaging, speeches, and talking points - Oversee multiple marketing projects, establish priorities, manage deadlines, and ensure timely delivery - Collaborate with other divisions to identify communication needs and ensure consistent promotion of programs - Lead, coach, develop, and evaluate marketing and communications staff - Lead crisis communications planning and serve as key advisor during emergencies or sensitive issues - Establish and enforce agency-wide brand standards, messaging frameworks, and visual identity guidelines - Utilize data analytics and media metrics to evaluate campaign effectiveness and inform decision-making - Develop and administer the division’s budget - Represent the agency in professional organizations, workshops, and collaborative initiatives - Serve as the agency’s spokesperson to media, elected officials, and community organizations - Develop internal communications strategies to improve employee engagement MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Experience: - Five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in marketing, communications, public affairs, or public information. - At least two (2) years of supervisory or management experience. Equivalency: - An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Licenses: - Valid Maryland Class C Noncommercial driver's license (or equivalent) and eligibility to obtain a Baltimore City driver’s permit. Provisional licenses are not accepted. - Applicants must upload a copy of their valid driver's license with the application. PREFERRED SKILLS - Strategic planning and organizational communications - Media relations and crisis communications - Brand management - Digital marketing analytics - Project management - Budget management - Staff coaching and performance management - Political acumen and ability to work with elected officials - Strong judgment in high-profile or sensitive situations - Ability to analyze complex information and translate it into clear public messaging SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Non-Civil Service Position - Background Check: Eligible candidates must complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint screening. - Probation: All selected persons must complete a 6-month mandatory probation. - Financial Disclosure: Required to complete a Financial Disclosure pursuant to City Ethics Law within 30 days of hire. - Driver's License: Must provide a copy of a valid driver's license with the application. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review based on minimum qualifications. - Standard City of Baltimore hiring procedures apply. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Baltimore careers portal. - Job Requisition ID: R0018470 - Application Deadline: October 14, 2026 - Note: You must upload a copy of your valid driver's license with the application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Baltimore City Recreation and Parks (BCRP) - Location: 3001 East Drive, Baltimore, MD - Type: Full-Time - Benefits: Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, FSA plans, wellness programs, support groups, and workshops.