Senior Special Assistant to Police Commissioner

Distinguishing Features

Under direction of the Police Commissioner, the incumbent shall provide confidential advice and assistance to the Commissioner of Police on matters involving communications between the department, the public and the media.  S/he will be responsible for insuring that all external communications of the department are consistent with appropriate law enforcement standards, particularly when these communications involve law enforcement sensitive and/or life safety matters.  S/he may function as the primary spokesperson for the Commissioner and shall direct, coordinate and manage internal and external communications.  Performs duties on call, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Typical Work Activities

• Acts as departmental spokesperson during emergency situations.

• Develops and manages communications strategies for law enforcement sensitive issues (e.g., hostage situations, evacuations, arrests, warrants).

• Advises on departmental policies for handling media requests, especially internal affairs matters.

• Responds to public/media inquiries with accurate, verifiable information while protecting confidential sources.

• Represents or speaks for the Commissioner on confidential matters, including ongoing investigations and civil litigation.

• Maintains the department’s website for media information.

• Participates in confidential meetings with Commissioner, Mayor, and other officials.

• Acts as liaison with media, community groups, and the public.

• May serve as spokesperson for the Buffalo Fire Department for special events.

Full Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics

• Thorough knowledge of public relations and publicity principles and techniques.

• Good knowledge of law enforcement operational guidelines and media policies.

• Good knowledge of laws regarding public records, fair trial process, and criminal law.

• Familiarity with communication media.

• Ability to prepare, revise, and present informational material.

• Strong oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to work cooperatively with media, community groups, and the public.

• Good judgment, discretion, initiative, tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality.

• Physical condition commensurate with position demands.

Minimum Qualifications

• Option A: Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Policy, Communications, Journalism, or closely related field.

• Option B: Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, or closely related field and 1 year of full-time experience in public relations, copywriting, or news writing.

• Option C: Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, or closely related field and 2 years of full-time experience in public relations, copywriting, or news writing.

• Option D: An equivalent combination of education and experience within the limits of Options A–C.

Salary

$109,148

Note: Part-time experience will be pro-rated. Proof of education required at appointment.