Position Title: NMDA Director,Public Affairs

Employee Classification: Dir,Public Affairs

College/Division: New Mexico Dept of Agriculture

Department: 180001-NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUR

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  $65,090-$84,617 ; Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) works for the benefit of the state’s citizens and supports the viability of agriculture and affiliated industries. NMDA promotes food protection, a uniform, and fair marketplace, and global marketing and economic development; supports the beneficial use of natural resources; and works cooperatively with public and private sector entities. Opportunities for excellence abound, and NMDA staff dedicate themselves to proactive service in fulfilling the department’s mission. Each division plays an important role in carrying out the goals and objectives. Our rich agricultural history, culture, and traditions are addressed through new and innovative approaches using the latest in science, technology, and economic strategies. In New Mexico, we contribute to the safest and most affordable, and nutritious food supply on the globe.

NMDA is a constitutional agency organized under the Board of Regents of New Mexico State University (NMSU). This unique relationship creates efficiencies and opportunities for New Mexico’s food and agriculture sector as well as service and outreach opportunities for NMSU, making NMDA an integral part of the university. NMDA/NMSU is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Classification Summary:
Under general supervision, administers public affairs policies and procedures, maintaining positive relations with the public, the press, and electronic media. Develops and oversees the delivery of all publications, press and media communications, calendars, special promotions, and general public information on activities, events, and crises.

Classification Standard Duties:
Oversees the supervision of personnel, which includes work allocation, training, promotion and enforcement of internal procedures and controls, and problem resolution; evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions; motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance. Writes, edits, reviews, and approves public relations materials including news releases, fact sheets, articles, newsletters, and speeches; may write technical and/or scientific documents, proposals, or articles. Advises members of the university administration and community regarding public relations issues; assists administrative officers in planning and formulating policies, strategies, and responses relative to institutional issues and crisis management. Provides support for promotional special events such as open houses, book signings, fundraisers, outreach and community events, tours, press conferences, banquets, exhibits, product or service fairs, and athletic events. Oversees the content, production, and distribution of promotional printed materials including brochures and flyers.Responds to requests for information from media personnel and the public; distributes promotional materials, including flyers, brochures, and press kits; disseminates information via the appropriate media. Prepares mailing lists and targets those who may support university activities and creates opportunities to distribute information. May represent the university at community and business meetings. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Eight (8) years of increasingly progressive management experience in one or more areas that report to this position.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Knowledge of journalism principles and techniques. Knowledge of journalism, public relations and general communications principles and practices. Knowledge of printing procedures and requirements.; SKILLS:Employee development and performance management skills. Database management skills.; ABILITIES:Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to plan, organize and coordinate media activities and special events. Ability to evaluate and edit the content, structure, and format of a range of written material. Ability to use independent judgment and to gather, manage and impart information to the media and various other internal and external audiences. Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Serve as communications director for NMDA

Coordinate messaging with both internal and external groups including the Office of the Governor and NMSU leadership on behalf of the director/secretary; Oversee all social media creation and submissions.

Ensure compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as it relates to communication; Coordinate event functions on behalf of director/secretary and NMDA

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position
A cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts MUST be submitted as attachments when filling out the online application.

Department Contact:  Cheryl Mason-Herrera, 646-7523,cmason@nmda.nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Risk: No or very limited exposure to physical risk.