Director of Communications - Office of Senator Cyr

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Boston, MA

About The Position

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. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and resume. New hires can expect a salary between $67,114 and $85,117, which will be based on related experience, education, and training.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and at least 1 year of relevant work experience, or any of the following combinations of education and experience: Associate’s degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience; Graduate degree or higher in a related field; or 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.
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.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.
Ability to travel to or routinely work from the 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 housing, public health, mental health and substance use, clean energy, and LGBTQ+ equity.

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, and disseminate press releases on the Senator’s legislative, budget, and local priorities.
Draft and edit quotes, op-eds, letters to the editor, speeches, talking points, remarks, and newsletters.
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, secure podcast opportunities, and respond to media inquiries from local and national print, digital, radio, television, and podcast outlets.
Coordinate media availabilities, press conferences, and interviews.
Monitor news outlets, including local, statewide, and national news coverage.
Organize and promote media events both at the State House and in the district.
Manage the Senator’s official social media accounts.
Maintain the Senator’s official website.
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.

Benefits

75% state-paid medical insurance premium
Reasonable Dental and Vision Plans
Flexible Spending Accounts and Dependent Care Assistance programs
Low-cost basic and optional life insurance
Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
12 paid holidays per year and competitive Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time
Competitive Senate-sponsored parental leave
Tuition Benefit for employees and spouses at state colleges and universities
Long-Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options
Employee Assistance Programs
Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities
Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program