General Description

The State Bar of Texas is seeking a public affairs director to manage its media relations and public resources programs. This position plays a vital role in the State Bar’s efforts to increase public understanding of the legal and judicial system and the State Bar’s role in the system. This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.

Primary Functions

1. Prepare and distribute news releases and media advisories to publicize State Bar of Texas programs and activities to educate the public about the legal profession and the judicial branch of government. 2. Initiate contact with and respond promptly to requests from the news media, help identify legal experts and other resources that can assist reporters in the coverage of specialized legal issues, and maintain the texasbar.com/media page.3. Provide support to State Bar leadership serving in the role of spokespersons through briefings, message development, media training, crisis management strategy, and preparation of background materials. 4. Prepare and distribute the State Bar of Texas Daily News Briefing electronic newsletter featuring Texas legal news. 5. Serve as staff liaison to State Bar of Texas Public Affairs Committee, including the planning and implementation of annual Open Government Seminar and other committee priorities. 6. Work with the communications division director to coordinate media messages, including legal topics of public interest, disaster response efforts, social media, and other priority issues identified by State Bar leadership. 7. Manage the State Bar’s Free Legal Resources program, which includes maintaining a database of public information/public service pamphlets, answering requests for copies of pamphlets, packaging and mailing individual and bulk pamphlet requests, and maintaining the texasbar.com/resources page.8. Serve as a member of the State Bar communications team under the division director to develop strategy, carry out communication initiatives, and create and/or edit informational materials including pamphlets, videos, social media posts, and reports.9. Prepare and manage department budget. 10. Perform other responsibilities as required.

Position Requirements

Requires bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or related field, plus five years’ professional experience. Requires excellent writing and communication skills and strong organizational, planning, and interpersonal skills. Some travel required.