Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, CA
Strategic Communications Officer
Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, CA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
Salary : $147,888.00 - $181,896.00 Annually
Location : Los Angeles, CA
Job Type: At-Will Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25-14
Department: Policy and Innovation Department
Opening Date: 01/24/2025
Please go to for details of this position and to apply.
Characteristics of the Class: Under the direction of HACLA's President & CEO and the Director of Policy and Innovation, the Strategic Communications Officer will focus on strengthening HACLA's messaging and communications across multiple mediums and platforms; plans, organizes, and directs activities of assigned projects and staff; and performs related duties as required. This role works closely with executive leadership and key staff across HACLA departments, elected officials, collaborative and industry partners, residents, and the general public to bolster HACLA's communications, brand, and public image. This will include overseeing HACLA's strategic media and comprehensive communications body of work, including developing compelling content, managing key supportive contracts and media campaigns, directly supporting the CEO/President's communications priorities, and advancing a proactive communications framework to amplify HACLA's programs, impact, and mission across media platforms.
The ideal candidate will have previous experience in public service, ideally in the public housing or affordable housing sector, demonstrated expertise in complex business writing, development of strategic communications plans, materials, and campaigns, including speech development, cohesive messaging, and crisis response. They will also have skills in project management, managing multiple and converging deadlines, best practice research, critical thinking, persuasive and engaging messaging, media coaching, and directing staff in supportive and coordinated projects.
Examples of Essential Functions: Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Plans, organizes, and directs the activities associated with assigned functions; supervises and coordinates activities of media and communications staff members; directs and conducts special research projects and conducts complex analysis.
Develops content, including drafting, reviewing and editing press releases, social media posts, speeches, talking points, presentations, handouts, and other visual and written materials to advance HACLA's image, message, mission, and priorities; promotes awareness and enhances visibility across media platforms and communication mediums.
Reviews and evaluates the effectiveness of programs and services of the department; makes recommendations or takes corrective action as appropriate. This includes developing and/or maintaining HACLA's communications strategy, including messaging, channels, media coaching, and stakeholder engagement process and supports alignment of HACLA's vision and mission in harmony with industry best practices. May oversee external vendor contracts related to communications and media relations projects.
Participates in the development of departmental policy and procedures and implements policy and procedures for assigned activities.
Develops and reviews complex communications, materials, and reports for leadership approval, analyzes existing processes and develops recommendations regarding various HACLA programs and policies to best position HACLA's response.
Establishes and helps maintain effective media and communications relationships with a wide range of people and position levels as well as public or private organizations in a manner that reflects favorably on HACLA; Acts as a spokesperson and/or supportive liaison for HACLA spokespersons with other departments, outside agencies, elected offices, residents and other key stakeholders.
May prepare and/or make verbal presentations to and participate in discussions with a variety of stakeholders including but not limited to affordable housing developers and operators, citizen advisory and HACLA's board, community groups, members of the public, and elected officials and their staff, media outlets about topics related to public housing, affordable housing and community development; such presentations may include complex and/or technical information that must be conveyed in an appropriate and understandable manner.
May oversee solicitations in assigned areas of focus or write Requests for Proposals which include an explanation of the services or product desired and the criteria which will be used in evaluating proposals to secure the services of a contractor for research, consultations, or other services; monitors the progress of executed service contracts to ensure compliance and meeting of established timetables, operating within budget, and obtaining the specified results.
May be required to drive a vehicle to different sites and/or locations.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills
Comprehensive knowledge of:
Minimum Qualifications:
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities are qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Minimum Education & Experience:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and a minimum of six (6) years increasingly responsible administrative and managerial experience in journalism, English, communications, media relations, business administration, marketing, planning, public policy/administration and/or as appropriate to assigned department/functions; of which, at least three (3) years have include direct staff supervisory responsibilities.
-OR-
A Master's Degree in journalism, English, communications, media relations, business administration, marketing, planning, public policy/administration and/or as appropriate to assigned department/functions and at least three (3) years direct staff supervisory experience.
Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Employees must maintain a driving record, which meets the insurability requirement of the Housing Authority's carrier.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications will be reviewed for relevant experience, education, and/or training. Applications must be detailed and complete for proper evaluation. Resumes may be included but may not be submitted in lieu of application content. Only the most-qualified applicants will be considered and may be invited to the interview and selection process.
SELECTION PROCEDUREApplications will be reviewed for relevant experience, education and training. The application must be detailed and complete for proper evaluation.
HIRING INFORMATION
All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment evaluation, which includes: a post-offer medical examination (includes drug and alcohol screening), criminal records check, employment history and education verification, and documentation of the right to work in the United States.
Candidates will start at step one of an eight step salary range unless there are special exceptions in accordance with agency Personnel Rules.
DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION: Testing Accommodations: If you require an accommodation due to a physical, mental or learning disability, please call (213) 252-5400 for special assistance. Special testing accommodations may be arranged if verification of the disability is provided by a physician, rehabilitation counselor, or other authority.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Candidates who require a reasonable accommodation in any portion of the selection process should state their need in writing when submitting an application.
NOTE: The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
Pursuant to the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles' Conflict of Interest Policy, new and existing employees are required to refrain from participating in activities, employment or enterprises, which are in conflict with public interest and/or with his or her duties as an employee of the Authority. A copy of the Conflict of Interest Policy may be obtained by visiting our website at:
Please call NeoGov Toll-Free Applicant Support telephone line (855) 524-5627 if you forget your password, have application login problems or get an error message during the application process.
HACLA Benefits
*Medical/Dental/Vision Plan:
*Availability of benefits are dependent upon employment eligibility status with HACLA*
01
What is your highest level of education?
02
How many years of direct supervisory experience do you have?
03
How many years of increasingly responsible administrative and managerial experience do you have in Journalism, English, Communications, Media Relations, Business Administration, Marketing, Planning, and or Public Policy/Administration?
04
Please identify what area(s) you have increasingly responsible administrative and managerial experience in and the number of years? (Journalism, English, Communications, Media Relations, Business Administration, Marketing, Planning, Public Policy/Administration)
Required Question
Location : Los Angeles, CA
Job Type: At-Will Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25-14
Department: Policy and Innovation Department
Opening Date: 01/24/2025
Please go to for details of this position and to apply.
Characteristics of the Class: Under the direction of HACLA's President & CEO and the Director of Policy and Innovation, the Strategic Communications Officer will focus on strengthening HACLA's messaging and communications across multiple mediums and platforms; plans, organizes, and directs activities of assigned projects and staff; and performs related duties as required. This role works closely with executive leadership and key staff across HACLA departments, elected officials, collaborative and industry partners, residents, and the general public to bolster HACLA's communications, brand, and public image. This will include overseeing HACLA's strategic media and comprehensive communications body of work, including developing compelling content, managing key supportive contracts and media campaigns, directly supporting the CEO/President's communications priorities, and advancing a proactive communications framework to amplify HACLA's programs, impact, and mission across media platforms.
The ideal candidate will have previous experience in public service, ideally in the public housing or affordable housing sector, demonstrated expertise in complex business writing, development of strategic communications plans, materials, and campaigns, including speech development, cohesive messaging, and crisis response. They will also have skills in project management, managing multiple and converging deadlines, best practice research, critical thinking, persuasive and engaging messaging, media coaching, and directing staff in supportive and coordinated projects.
Examples of Essential Functions: Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Plans, organizes, and directs the activities associated with assigned functions; supervises and coordinates activities of media and communications staff members; directs and conducts special research projects and conducts complex analysis.
Develops content, including drafting, reviewing and editing press releases, social media posts, speeches, talking points, presentations, handouts, and other visual and written materials to advance HACLA's image, message, mission, and priorities; promotes awareness and enhances visibility across media platforms and communication mediums.
Reviews and evaluates the effectiveness of programs and services of the department; makes recommendations or takes corrective action as appropriate. This includes developing and/or maintaining HACLA's communications strategy, including messaging, channels, media coaching, and stakeholder engagement process and supports alignment of HACLA's vision and mission in harmony with industry best practices. May oversee external vendor contracts related to communications and media relations projects.
Participates in the development of departmental policy and procedures and implements policy and procedures for assigned activities.
Develops and reviews complex communications, materials, and reports for leadership approval, analyzes existing processes and develops recommendations regarding various HACLA programs and policies to best position HACLA's response.
Establishes and helps maintain effective media and communications relationships with a wide range of people and position levels as well as public or private organizations in a manner that reflects favorably on HACLA; Acts as a spokesperson and/or supportive liaison for HACLA spokespersons with other departments, outside agencies, elected offices, residents and other key stakeholders.
May prepare and/or make verbal presentations to and participate in discussions with a variety of stakeholders including but not limited to affordable housing developers and operators, citizen advisory and HACLA's board, community groups, members of the public, and elected officials and their staff, media outlets about topics related to public housing, affordable housing and community development; such presentations may include complex and/or technical information that must be conveyed in an appropriate and understandable manner.
May oversee solicitations in assigned areas of focus or write Requests for Proposals which include an explanation of the services or product desired and the criteria which will be used in evaluating proposals to secure the services of a contractor for research, consultations, or other services; monitors the progress of executed service contracts to ensure compliance and meeting of established timetables, operating within budget, and obtaining the specified results.
May be required to drive a vehicle to different sites and/or locations.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills
Comprehensive knowledge of:
- Techniques and principles of strategic oral, written, and visual communication development for communication and storytelling across mediums and platforms.
- Project management, writing, organizational, communication, and demonstrated interpersonal skills.
- Principles and practices of public administration; including budget and fiscal controls, human resources and employee relations administration, contracts and purchasing, vendor oversight, management information systems, and general office management.
- Design innovative communications campaigns that amplify HACLA and experience tailoring strategies for diverse groups including clients, residents, staff, partners, elected officials, and the public.
- Create messaging that resonates across diverse communities including sensitivity to cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences.
- Synthesize and distill complex and multifaceted concepts, issues and industry practices into digestible and easily comprehended oral, written and graphic messaging and communications across multi-modal communications platforms as appropriate to the project and target audience.
- Expertly coordinate, manage and direct varied activities and staff; concisely present ideas clearly and effectively, orally, visually, and in writing;
- Review, answer and assign matters received in the department to staff for study and disposition; determine scope of activities and formulate overall rules and procedures for implementation in assigned functions.
- Identify and analyze critical aspects of problems. Which includes conducting research, analyzing issues, identifying trends, patterns and seeking best practice solutions with attention to detail and including recommendations supporting department goals.
- Communicate effectively, orally, and in writing. Which includes maintaining effective and cooperative working relationships with colleagues, superiors, government agencies, and other key stakeholders; and the ability to meet with, present, explain, interpret, persuade and enlist the cooperation of others.
- Prepare clear and concise reports. This includes writing, editing, and proof-reading clear, structurally sound, and persuasive documents and reports.
- Maximize the use of social media and emerging media tools in support of strategic media and communication efforts.
- Work confidentially and with discretion.
Minimum Qualifications:
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities are qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Minimum Education & Experience:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and a minimum of six (6) years increasingly responsible administrative and managerial experience in journalism, English, communications, media relations, business administration, marketing, planning, public policy/administration and/or as appropriate to assigned department/functions; of which, at least three (3) years have include direct staff supervisory responsibilities.
-OR-
A Master's Degree in journalism, English, communications, media relations, business administration, marketing, planning, public policy/administration and/or as appropriate to assigned department/functions and at least three (3) years direct staff supervisory experience.
Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Employees must maintain a driving record, which meets the insurability requirement of the Housing Authority's carrier.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications will be reviewed for relevant experience, education, and/or training. Applications must be detailed and complete for proper evaluation. Resumes may be included but may not be submitted in lieu of application content. Only the most-qualified applicants will be considered and may be invited to the interview and selection process.
SELECTION PROCEDUREApplications will be reviewed for relevant experience, education and training. The application must be detailed and complete for proper evaluation.
HIRING INFORMATION
All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment evaluation, which includes: a post-offer medical examination (includes drug and alcohol screening), criminal records check, employment history and education verification, and documentation of the right to work in the United States.
Candidates will start at step one of an eight step salary range unless there are special exceptions in accordance with agency Personnel Rules.
DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION: Testing Accommodations: If you require an accommodation due to a physical, mental or learning disability, please call (213) 252-5400 for special assistance. Special testing accommodations may be arranged if verification of the disability is provided by a physician, rehabilitation counselor, or other authority.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Candidates who require a reasonable accommodation in any portion of the selection process should state their need in writing when submitting an application.
NOTE: The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
Pursuant to the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles' Conflict of Interest Policy, new and existing employees are required to refrain from participating in activities, employment or enterprises, which are in conflict with public interest and/or with his or her duties as an employee of the Authority. A copy of the Conflict of Interest Policy may be obtained by visiting our website at:
Please call NeoGov Toll-Free Applicant Support telephone line (855) 524-5627 if you forget your password, have application login problems or get an error message during the application process.
HACLA Benefits
*Medical/Dental/Vision Plan:
- HACLA will provide up to 100% of the CalPERS medical premium rate for Los Angeles, San Bernardino & Ventura Counties Kaiser rates for employee only, employee + one dependent, and employee + multiple dependents as applicable
- HACLA will provide 100% of basic Dental HMO rates for employee only, employee + one dependent, and employee + multiple dependents as applicable
- HACLA will provide 100% basic Vision coverage for employee only, employee + one dependent, and employee + multiple dependents as applicable
- $250 OPT OUT payment is available for employees with a qualifying health plan outside of the employer network.
- Employees have the option to choose additional optional insurance such as Dental PPO, Custom Vision, additional medical coverage, and voluntary additional life insurance.
- HACLA will provide 100% of STD/LTD/Mandatory Life premiums for all eligible employees to maintain the IRS 125 Plan
- HACLAretirement plan is the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). Vesting is five (5) years.
- For Classic members, the pension formula is 2.7% at 55 with members contributing 8% of their wages towards their retirement.
- For PEPRA members, the pension formula is 2% at 62, with members contributing 7.75% of their wages towards their retirement.
- CalPERS will make the determination regarding the type of membership for which the eligible employee will qualify.
- Annual leave accruals vary, depending upon the type of job/position (membership in employee organizational group) and years of service. Length of service increases accrual rates by employee organizational group when service requirements are met.
- Newly Hired Annual Accruals:
- At-Will/Non-Represented accrual per pay period 5.23 hours (17 days annually)
- Council of Housing Professionals-Management accrual per pay period 4.15 hours (14 days annually)
- Council of Housing Professionals-Administration accrual per pay period 6.78 hours (22 days annually)
- Service Employees International Union (Local 721) accrual per pay period 6.78 hours (22 days annually)
- Los Angeles County Building and Construction Trades Council accrual per pay period 5.23 hours (17 days annually)
- American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees accrual per pay period 6.78 hours (22 days annually)
- 14 Observed Holidays:
- New Year's Eve; New Years Day; Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday; President's Day; Cesar Chavez Day; Memorial Day; Juneteenth; Independence Day; Labor Day; Veteran's Day; Thanksgiving Day; Day After Thanksgiving; Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
- 12 Floating Holiday hours annually
- Opportunity to earn up to 160 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) for eligible exempt employees as comp time per calendar year. Employees may cash out up to 160 hours of accrued and unused PTO annually.
- Pre-Tax Deferred Compensation 457 Plan
- Group term life insurance
- Flexible Spending Account Options
- Tuition Reimbursement Program
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Work Schedules
- Partial Telework Program
- Kaiser Medical Insurance - 50% employer covered medical through Kaiser Permanente if working 30 hours or more per week.
- Paid Sick Time - At least 40 hours or 5 days of sick leave after 90 days of employment.
- Eligible casual employees may enter as Classifc or PEPRA members if qualifying requirements are met.
- Per-Diem employees are not eligible for the Public Employee Retirement System (PERS).
*Availability of benefits are dependent upon employment eligibility status with HACLA*
01
What is your highest level of education?
- Certification
- High School
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
- Doctoral Degree
02
How many years of direct supervisory experience do you have?
- None
- 1- 2 years
- 2-3 years
- 3-4 years
- 5 years or more
03
How many years of increasingly responsible administrative and managerial experience do you have in Journalism, English, Communications, Media Relations, Business Administration, Marketing, Planning, and or Public Policy/Administration?
- None
- 1-3 years
- 3-5 years
- 6 years or more.
04
Please identify what area(s) you have increasingly responsible administrative and managerial experience in and the number of years? (Journalism, English, Communications, Media Relations, Business Administration, Marketing, Planning, Public Policy/Administration)
Required Question