We are hiring a Director of Communications to join the Cyr Squad! If you have a passion for politics, a knack for comms, and are a wiz at writing, consider this position.
Click the link to learn more and apply https://rb.gy/bywe58
TITLE: Director of Communications I – Senator’s Office
CLASSIFICATION: Grade 3
Hiring Salary Range as of 3/2024: $65,503 - $83,074
JOB SUMMARY The Director of Communications helps develop and manages the communications and public relations strategies for a Senator’s office. In collaboration with, and at the direction of the Senator and Chief of Staff, the Director of Communications executes a broad range of communications tasks that support the Senator’s policy and district priorities. Utilizing a network of media contacts and a variety of communications strategies, platforms and skills, the Director of Communications plays a key role in the success of a Senator’s office operations. The Director of Communications reports to the Chief of Staff.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop, in consultation with the Senator and Chief of Staff, a comprehensive media strategy for the Senator.
- Screen incoming media requests and make recommendations to Chief of Staff and Senator.
- Draft, edit, design, and disseminate press releases and monthly newsletter on the Senator’s legislative, budget, and local priorities.
- Draft and edit quotes, op-eds, letters to the editor, speeches, talking points, and remarks.
- Maintain accurate media contacts lists and establish strong working relationships with members of the media.
- Collect and maintain photo and video archives.
- Research and pitch stories and respond to media inquiries from local and national print, digital, radio, and television outlets.
- Coordinate media availabilities, press conferences, and interviews.
- Monitor news outlets, including local, statewide, and national news coverage, compiling newsclips related to the district on a weekly basis.
- Organize and promote media events both at the State House and in the district.
- Manage and grow audience of the Senator’s official social media accounts.
- Maintain the Senator’s official website.
Other Duties and Responsibilities May Include:
- Serve as media spokesperson for the Senator and the office.
- Research legislation and budget issues.
- Provide constituent services and case work on district issues.
- Attend events with the Senator or on their behalf.
- Speak to constituents, advocates, and local groups when the Senator is unavailable.
- Assist with general administrative duties: answering phones, ordering supplies, sorting mail.
- Support other staff in messaging and drafting written materials in their assigned policy areas.
- Draft responses to legislative-related inquiries from constituents, organizations, legislators, and other stakeholders.
- Supervise office intern.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree and at least 1 year of relevant work experience, or any of the following combinations of education and experience:
- a. Associate’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience;
- b. Graduate degree or higher in a related field; or
- c. At least 5 years of relevant work experience.
- Basic understanding of state government operations and the legislative process.
- Demonstrated experience and competence working with social media platforms and computerized office applications.
- Basic understanding of print, broadcast, digital, and online media.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including, but not limited to, a deep understanding of grammar, strong attention to detail, and fine-tuned editorial and copy-editing skills across numerous platforms.
- Temperament to communicate with a variety of personalities in a tactful, positive, and professional manner.
- Ability to think critically and work both independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to produce quality work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to maintain a flexible schedule including working extended hours, possibly on nights and weekends.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Familiarity with Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.
- Ability to travel to Cape & Islands Senate District when needed.
- Experience developing communications campaigns and creating and managing content for distribution on various outreach channels
- Experience with tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, MailChimp, and photo and video editing.
- Interest in policies related to public health, mental health and substance use, housing, clean energy, and LGBTQ+ equity.