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Position Title:

Director of Communications

Job Posting Closing Date:

01/22

The City of Provo is seeking an experienced Director of Communications to serve as the chief advisor on internal and external messaging, media relations, and public engagement for the Mayor’s Office and City leadership. Reporting directly to the Mayor, this role is responsible for executing the City’s overall communications strategy.

This position requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, including speechwriting, along with strong political acumen, strategic insight, and the ability to align public communications with administrative priorities and the needs of the Provo community.

Job Details

What is the compensation package?

Pay Range: (MGT3) $121,126 to $177,652 annually depending on experience and qualifications.

Provo City offers generous employer-paid health insurance; state-sponsored retirement plans (URS.org) with a 3% Management 401k contribution, and an additional 401k match up to 2%; paid leaves, including vacation, sick, holidays, bereavement, and parental leaves; educational assistance; competitive pay; and regular review of compensation practices to remain competitive with the market. Employees also receive great perks: free use of the Provo Recreation Center and Peaks Ice Arena, a Provo Library card, 50% off green fees at Timpanogos Golf Course, a 4/10 work schedule​, and others. For more information about benefits click here. (https://www.provo.gov/DocumentCenter/View/458/2026-Provo-City-Benefit-Highlights-PDF?bidId=)

What are the main duties? (Click here for the applicant brochure (https://provoutahgov-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/rkarnes\_provo\_utah\_gov/IQBziQBDRvnJTay7z1uziWTyAVgWutxsOX3t3ePpMnL4Dok?e=Ck0pLN) with additional details about the position)

+ Advise the Mayor and City leadership on communications, media relations, and public engagement.

+ Develop and execute the City’s communications strategy aligned with the Mayor’s priorities.

+ Write and oversee speeches, talking points, and official messaging for City leadership.

+ Manage the City’s communications staff, operations, and media services.

+ Serve as spokesperson or prepare leaders for media and public appearances.

+ Lead crisis communications and monitor media coverage and public sentiment.

+ Ensure legal compliance, manage budgets and vendors, and promote transparent communication.

What are the minimum qualifications?

[Provo City will honor equivalent combinations of job-related education/training [substituting each year of post-secondary education/training for six months of experience].

+ Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, Public Administration or related field (Master’s preferred).

+ Minimum 6 years of progressively responsible communications/public affairs/marketing experience, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role in a governmental, public sector, or politically sensitive environment.

+ A valid, lawful driver’s license is required.

+ Spanish language proficiency, cultural competence, and familiarity with Utah state and local government; particularly Provo’s community, regional dynamics, and key stakeholders, are preferred.

What is the selection process?

This position is slated to close on January 23, 2026. Applications will be reviewed in the order they are submitted, with the first screening being held on January 20, 2026. Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications listed above to be eligible for consideration.

If selected for hire, candidate will be required to successfully pass a drug screen and criminal background check. Non-disclosure may result in dismissal. Applicants with unsatisfactory drug screen results will be ineligible for appointment or application to any Provo City position for a minimum period of six (6) months.

Why Provo City?

Provo is a strong, community-centered city with thriving neighborhoods, dedicated residents, and a deep tradition of service and innovation. We build on these strengths by making city government more transparent and efficient, expanding diverse and affordable housing, revitalizing local business districts, and investing in smarter infrastructure and transportation. By planning growth thoughtfully and managing resources responsibly, we maintain a future for Provo that is vibrant, connected and welcoming for families, students, seniors, and business for generations to come. All of this makes Provo well-managed, friendly, economically vibrant, and livable for people at all stages of life.

Provo City is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Full Time/Part Time:

Full time

Position Type:

Regular

Scheduled Hours:

40

It is the policy of Provo City to select, develop, and promote employees based on their ability and job performance. It has been, and shall continue to be, the policy of the City to provide Equal Employment Opportunity to all people in all aspects of employer/employee relations without regard to race; color; religion; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or pregnancy-related condition; age; national origin; disability; sexual orientation; or gender identity. This policy affects decisions including, but not limited to, an employee's compensation; benefits; terms and conditions of employment; and opportunities for promotion, training and development, transfer, and other privileges of employment. It has been, and shall continue to be, the City's policy to maintain a working environment free of discrimination and intimidation. It is further the policy of the City to comply in good faith with applicable local, state, and federal statutes concerning Equal Employment Opportunity.

Employment with Provo City offers a variety of opportunities to start and grow an exciting career serving your community, including in public safety, utility services, leisure services, administration, and other areas. Opportunities are always available, so apply today to be a part of Provo’s team!