This is advanced communications and public relations work for Metrozoo.

An employee in this class is responsible for serving as spokesperson for Metrozoo and liaison to the general public. Responsibilities include developing and managing all media-related activities at Metrozoo, developing and writing articles for publication, and producing and delivering a wide variety of zoo-related presentations for social, civic and educational groups. Additional duties include coordinating all print ad and film shoots at Metrozoo, providing special tours for visiting dignitaries, and responding to various public inquiries regarding zoo animals and zoo operations. The incumbent exercises considerable independent judgment in generating positive publicity and interest in Metrozoo throughout local, national and international markets. Supervision is received from an administrative superior who holds the incumbent responsible for effective representation of Metrozoo to the public and development of innovative public relations programs.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Develops and implements interesting story ideas concerning Metrozoo for release to the media to assist in promoting the zoo and achieving positive public exposure; coordinates the writing and distribution of press releases.

Prepares and presents verbal presentations to the public and a wide variety of social, civic and educational organizations to promote Metrozoo.

Serves as spokesperson for Metrozoo and coordinates all media regarding any planned or unplanned media events such as animal births, animal deaths, unusual incidents or unique procedures.

Coordinates and manages all print ad and film shoots done at Metrozoo including catalogue photo sessions and major motion picture productions.

Provides special tours of Metrozoo for visiting dignitaries, zoo officials and other VIP's.

Responds to various public inquiries regarding zoo animals and general zoo operations.

Meets with the Zoo Superintendent to review press releases and story ideas; attends various meetings concerning zoo publicity activities.

Makes guest appearances on local, national and international television and radio stations representing Metrozoo.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of the organization, operations and activities at Metrozoo.

Thorough knowledge of the custodial care, behavioral characteristics and general habits of animals at Metrozoo.

Thorough knowledge of the practices and procedures of animal management, propagation and conservation.

Thorough knowledge of public relations principles and techniques.

Considerable knowledge of journalistic principles and practices used in the promotion of a major metropolitan zoo.

Considerable knowledge of the long-term goals and objectives of Metrozoo.

Ability to create and implement promotional ideas to enhance public interest in Metrozoo.

Ability to plan, compose and edit a variety of informational and promotional zoo materials.

Ability to make verbal and visual presentations before large groups of zoo patrons.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing, to groups and individuals.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, representatives of the media and the public.

Ability to manage and coordinate all media-related activities at Metrozoo.

NEW 10-04