A communications director manages the flow of information to stakeholders, handles public relations, and educates on communication practices. Qualifications include relevant experience and education. The role involves writing press releases, liaising with other departments, and leading in-house training programs. The director must promote a positive company image and organize community events.
The job of a chief communications officer (CCO) is to direct the flow of company-related information to stakeholders, including the public and employees. A communications director handles all aspects of public relations, educates others on acceptable communication practices, and helps develop a positive rapport in the community. Other duties of a communications director include informing shareholders and communicating with business partners.
Qualifications for a communications director generally include experience and education relevant to the job. This includes experience handling both internal and external communications. The educational background of those typically hired as a director of communications often includes a bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications, journalism or public relations.
Companies and organizations hire a director of communications to help provide stakeholders with relevant and accurate information. They need to be able to write and edit documents for press releases and media visits. In addition, they work with other internal departments, such as the Legal Department, to ensure that any information shared follows proper business protocols and meets various legal standards prior to release.
Public relations represent one of the main duties of a head of communications. This includes handling news briefings for various media such as television, newspaper and radio, as well as keeping the public informed of new developments and any developments of note. Media releases may also contain information about controversial events; therefore, CCOs must be prepared to respond to questions and comments from various groups, including media representatives and shareholders.
The position often leads in-house training programs. These training programs help educate employees on where and how to address inquiries received from shareholders and media representatives. This training lays the groundwork for educating employees on how to avoid making potentially harmful statements to customers or the media. Communications training is vital for many positions in an organization that deal with the public on a daily basis, most notably customer service and health and safety positions.
A director of communications must help promote a positive image of the company. The position generally helps to reduce any potentially negative damage that may arise from bad press, while developing opportunities to improve the company’s image. Organizing and running community events, such as fundraising and volunteer opportunities, is one of the ways a CCO can help foster community spirit and create goodwill in the surrounding community.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
