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City of Providence

Director of Communications

City of Providence, Providence, Rhode Island, us, 02912


Job Summary

Ensure you read the information regarding this opportunity thoroughly before making an application. The Communications Director is a key member of the Providence City Council leadership team, responsible for managing the Council’s communications strategy across multiple platforms. This role involves media relations, digital communications, policy messaging, event promotion, and staff supervision. The Communications Director will ensure effective communication of the Council’s initiatives and policies to the public and stakeholders, supporting all 15 councilors. Duties & Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following : Leadership: Supervise the communications staff, consisting of a communications coordinator and press secretary. Recruit and supervise interns as needed. Provide guidance, mentorship, and performance evaluations for communications staff. Liaise and build relationships with legislative, governmental, and non-governmental communications partners. Respond to crises and time sensitive issues, including in the evenings and on weekends. Event Staffing and Promotion: Manage logistics and staffing for events for all 15 councilors, including promotion and on-site coordination, in collaboration with the events coordinator, schedulers, and constituent services team. Oversee the production of video content and photography, capturing key events and activities for promotional purposes and strategic communications. Draft remarks and/or prepare background information as needed prior to events that councilors are speaking at or attending. Media Relations (in collaboration with the press secretary): Develop and maintain relationships with press and media contacts. Organize press conferences and prepare press releases, media advisories, and other communications materials. Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews and public appearances with council members. Digital Communications (in collaboration with the communications coordinator): Analyze and enhance the City Council website, newsletter, social media platforms, visual identity, branding and other key deliverables. Oversee the Council’s email communications and social media platforms. Develop and implement digital strategies to enhance engagement and public awareness. Monitor social media channels and respond to public inquiries. Work with councilors and council staff to source digital content. Policy Messaging: Draft multi-media communications plans for Council legislative priorities, using traditional media, digital media, and innovative tactics to draw attention to key Council initiatives. Assist in crafting compelling and effective messaging on progressive policies, with a particular focus on transformative housing policy. Collaborate with council members to develop and refine key messages and talking points. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of education. Proven experience in media relations, digital communications, and messaging development. Deep commitment to progressive values and transformative policy change. Experience with social media management and digital strategy. Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment. Supervisory experience is strongly preferred. This is not an entry level position. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities. Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Must be able to perform all essential functions of the job as defined. Willingness to work nights and weekends when necessary. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $97,934.00 - $114,564.00 per year People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply Ability to Commute: Providence, RI 02903 (Required) Ability to Relocate: Providence, RI 02903: Relocate before starting work (Required) Work Location: In person

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