Chief Communications – Milwaukee, WI

Job Description

Chief Communications Officer – Vacancy
Milwaukee Public Schools, Milwaukee, WI 

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is seeking a Chief Communication Officer beginning on July 1, 2025, (or when available) with a base salary range expected to be $170,555 to $204,057 (based on experience). Located in southeastern Wisconsin, MPS is the largest school district in the state, serving approximately 68,000 students. MPS is committed to accelerating student achievement, building positive relationships between youth and adults, and cultivating leadership at all levels. U.S. News and World Report  rated five MPS high schools among the best in the state in the spring of 2024. The Class of 2024 earned more than $113 million in scholarships and grants. The District has about 9,590 employees, and a budget of $1.47 billion in total revenues and expenditures. Education is provided in 156 buildings, including 21 bilingual schools, five of Wisconsin’s top high schools, eight public Montessori schools, and 11 International Baccalaureate schools. The diverse population includes students speaking 81 native languages.

• Link to MPS Strategic Plan: MPS Strategic Plan
• Link to MPS website for more information: MPS Website
• Link to full job description: Chief Communications Officer

Position Summary/Purpose:
MPS seeks a dynamic leader to help tell the MPS story to a diverse set of stakeholders in MPS and the greater community. This position will have strategic oversight and management of the district’s communications strategy, leading a team of talented professionals in service of Milwaukee’s students and families. As a member of the superintendent’s leadership team, the  chief communications officer will oversee all of the district’s internal and external communications, including marketing, public relations, social media, website, and more. 

Education Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• Work experience and certifications will be considered in conjunction with but, not as a substitute for, the required degree. 

Experience Requirements: 

• Ten or more years of experience working in communications and/or journalism, collaborating with multiple departments and partners simultaneously is required
• Five or more years of experience in media communications management is required
• Proficiency of the English language, demonstrated through extensive writing and editing 
• Technical understanding of editing software, Office 365 and other relevant software and databases

APPLICATIONS: 

Please email one continuous PDF document using the same order as below.

1. Cover letter (stating interest and unique qualifications for the position)
2. Full resume/vitae
3. Three letters of recommendation
4. Three names and contact information for three references (must be different names than the letters of recommendation)
5. You may add up to five additional pages of material at the end of your application document (news articles, press releases, testimonials, letters, events, awards received, presentations etc.) to support your candidacy.

Completed application materials should be emailed to:

• Mike Richie, HYA at mikerichie@hyasearch.com with MPS Chief Communications Officer Application in the subject line

• This position will remain open until filled
• Screening interviews begin as applications are received
• Formal interviews to begin in May/June, 2025
• Position starting July 1, 2025 or when available