What are the responsibilities and job description for the Press Secretary position at Michigan House of Representatives?
This is an at-will, partisan, senior level position who leads the Speaker of the House’s personal communication efforts. The Press Secretary communicates the Speaker’s position to the media, schedules interviews, responds to media requests, advises the Speaker on communication strategies, manages multiple social media accounts, and drafts all public comments and correspondence. The individual must be able to work closely with legislators, staff, and coordinate with the caucus communications department. The position requires in-person work Monday-Friday, with occasional remote work as directed by the Chief of Staff or Speaker and will require work on some nights and weekends. Due to the nature of the position, a high level of confidentiality and professionalism is required.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
· Acts as a point of contact for media outlets interested in the Speaker of the House and House Republicans
· Prepares briefing documents and background information ahead of public comments
· Provides counsel to the Speaker with all public comments
· Provides initial drafts of all speeches, press releases, opinion editorials, and other public comments
· Monitors news coverage of the Speaker and provides strategic advice on shaping coverage
· Speaks to the media on the Speaker’s behalf as an official spokesperson
· Assists with constituent correspondence, internal messages, or personal communication as needed
· Monitors and tracks relevant federal and state legislative developments, political news, and media coverage to keep informed
· Attends director level meetings to assist in completing the weekly/monthly agenda
· Performs other duties assigned
Minimum Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree preferred
· Three or more years of communications, legislative, or other relevant experience preferred
· Must possess strong research, writing, analysis, and oral presentation skills
· Must be comfortable functioning in a high-pressure and fast-paced environment
· Experience working with different personalities and a multitude of issues is required
· Must be able to learn House rules, policies, and guidelines
· Must be able to learn legislative districts and state political processes
· Familiarity handling a demanding schedule and organizing large amounts of information preferred