Communications Director

A New York City Council Member’s district office is seeking a communications Director to drive all aspects of the Office’s communications development, strategy, and execution. Working closely with the Council Member, the Communications Director works to effectively showcase, promote, and bolster the Council Member’s profile, district work, and policy agenda. We’re looking for candidates with a keen sense of New York City’s media landscape, strong writing skills, and a deep understanding of the city and state’s political climate.

SALARY RANGE:

$55,000 to $75,000

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Communications Director is responsible for developing messaging and media strategy, communicating with press, preparing Council Member for public speaking engagements, and maintaining online and social media presence. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

· Coordinate and respond to press and media inquiries for Council Member

· Draft press releases, quotes, media advisories. Pitch stories and op-eds to local and citywide media outlets.

· Prepare talking points and written remarks for Council Member’s interviews and public speaking opportunities including press conferences, rallies, community meetings and events, award ceremonies, ribbon cuttings, etc. Work with the other Legislative Office staff to develop talking points for Committee hearings and remarks on the occasion of bill introductions and votes.

· Maintain contact with local reporters.

· Develop press strategy to gain visibility for important initiatives and legislation.

· Organize and staff Council Member at special events, town halls, and community forums.

· Maintain Council Member’s social media accounts.

· Maintain Council Member’s website.

· Send out regular community newsletter. · Monitor news and compile clips for the office staff and Council Member daily.

· Write monthly Community Board newsletters and semi-annual Council newsletter.

· Prepare greeting and congratulatory letters and manage requests for proclamations in coordination with the Scheduler.

· Monitor the general email account for any constituent emails along with other staff.

· Provide monthly reports at local Community Board meetings, and represent Council Member at local events, as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

· Knowledge of District 43rd, including its neighborhoods, history, and diverse communities and knowledge of New York State and City Politics.

· 2-3 + years of experience working for a New York City media outlet or government field.

· Strong contacts with New York City-based reporters and media outlets and familiarity with neighborhoods in lower Manhattan.

· Excellent communication, public presentation, research and writing skills.

· Ability to communicate effectively with the general public and co-workers.

· Must be highly organized and detail-oriented.

· Written and verbal fluency in at least one non-English language highly preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

For eligible employees, health, dental and vision insurance coverage are offered upon hire. Retirement plans also available.

New York City residency required within 90 days of appointment.

The New York City Council makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov.

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified candidates should forward their resume and a cover letter, with the subject line to:

YOUR FULL NAME – Communications Director.

E-MAIL: Counciljobs@council.nyc.gov

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The New York City Council is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person