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POSITION SUMMARY

As part of the Secretariat’s communication office, the Communications Director is responsible for managing a wide range of communication and media relations for the Executive Office of Education and associated agencies. In consultation with the Secretary and Chief of Staff, the Communications Director is responsible for all public information and public relations activities falling under the purview of the Executive Office of Education.

Given the sensitive nature and, at times, unpredictability of work within the Communications office, responding to and continually reprioritizing and resetting goals and objectives within this fluid environment remains an ongoing challenge. This includes response protocol to inquiries that, at times, may be emotionally charged, and managing the flow of information in a constantly changing environment.

Within time management, maintaining upkeep and a steady, consistent flow of high-quality social media content can present a challenge, especially during times of shifting priorities and the magnitude of other responsibilities, including oversight of agencies within EOE.

Meet external deadlines and manage internal timelines within a heavily deadline-driven environment.

Recommend communications strategy for the Secretary of Executive Office of Education, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Department of Early Education and Care, the Department of Higher Education, and the Children’s Trust as needed.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate the communications operation, including daily media response, creation and dissemination of routine press releases, and long-term media strategy, for agencies within EOE including the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Early Education and Care, Department of Higher Education, and the Children’s Trust.
• Take the lead role in developing communications strategy, message development, and serving as chief speechwriter for Secretary of EOE; manage content development and editorial process of external and internal communications including presentations, PowerPoints, Secretariat-wide emails, and the development of talking points for senior officials including Governor, Lt. Governor, Secretary, and Commissioners.
• Manage the flow of press releases and communication from agencies through the Executive Office of Education for review by the Governor’s Press Office and, where appropriate, their subsequent electronic dissemination
• Supervise and manage the Assistant Director of Communications and Press Secretary.
• Create and post digital content in order to maintain a commanding presence on numerous social media platforms including Twitter, and Instagram, and edit and post content to the website.
• Monitor and oversee agency public information and public relations activities to ensure appropriateness and accuracy of content and to develop methods to expand and improve media relations.
• Communication plans, media relations strategies, press releases, talking points, speeches, and message development, digital and social media, and the flow of information for the Executive Office of Education, as well as the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Department of Early Education and Care, the Department of Higher Education, and the Children’s Trust.
• Develop new methods to expand and improve media relations and the timely electronic dissemination of information.
• Craft and refine messages and talking points for the Secretary, Commissioners, Staff, and other senior officials to promote the Governor’s education agenda. Questions regarding this requisition should be directed to Tonya.Williams3@mass.gov

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Exceptional written communication skills and the ability to develop plans and strategies.

• Strong oral and interpersonal skills

• Current knowledge of media relations, the internet, social media and web-based applications

• Current knowledge of digital communications tools such as Canva and other digital assets

Required Experience

The Communications Director would have demonstrated experience in implementing successful communications processes and five to eight years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional, administrative, supervisory, or management experience. Exceptional written and oral presentation skills and experience with supervising and managing a busy Communications department.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

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