Public Relations Director

A New York City Council member, representing District 43, is seeking a Public Relations Director. The position will help develop and execute effective communications strategies that support Council Member’s priorities. They will collaborate with staff in the office of the Council Member and staff from the Legislative, Land Use and Finance divisions. The role will be responsible for developing messaging, drafting talking points and press materials (op-eds, press releases, etc.), and managing media relations, press conferences, developing media strategies and responding to breaking news. The ideal candidate will also assist the Council Member in drafting speeches, op-ed articles, columns and letters to the editor, coordinates web content management training sessions and assists Council Member with strategies across all media platforms.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Communications Strategy & Execution

• Support the development and execution of comprehensive communications strategies that advance the Council Member’s legislative and policy priorities.
• Serve as a strategic communications partner, contributing to messaging frameworks and targeted outreach that effectively engage diverse audiences across New York City.
• Develop and implement integrated public affairs campaigns across media, digital, and multimedia platforms.

Media Relations & Press Management

• Serve as a primary point of contact for reporters covering the Council and relevant policy areas, cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with local, national, and ethnic media.
• Manage and coordinate timely, accurate, and strategic responses to media inquiries, ensuring alignment with Council priorities.
• Lead rapid response efforts to position the Council Member effectively on breaking news and emerging issues.
• Serve as a spokesperson for ethnic media outlets, delivering clear and consistent messaging.

Content Development & Messaging

• Draft, review, and edit a wide range of communications materials, including press releases, media advisories, briefing papers, talking points, op-eds, and official statements.
• Ensure consistency, clarity, and strategic alignment across all written and verbal communications.

Press Events & Media Opportunities

• Plan and execute press events, including press conferences, announcements, and community-facing engagements.
• Oversee event logistics, including media outreach, run-of-show development, participant preparation, and on-site coordination.
• Identify and secure proactive media opportunities, including interviews, feature stories, and editorial placements.
• Prepare the Council Member and relevant stakeholders for media appearances and interviews.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

• Collaborate with Council Member staff, committees, and central communications teams to ensure cohesive messaging and coordinated outreach.
• Support relationship-building with internal teams, government partners, and external stakeholders to advance communications objectives.
• Provide general communications support and contribute to special projects as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

·       Bachelor’s degree and 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or a related field.

·       Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with media and diverse stakeholders.

·       Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

·       Demonstrated sound judgment, with strong analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities.

·       Ability to work flexible, non-traditional hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

·       Bilingual proficiency is strongly preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

New York City residency required within 90 days of appointment.

For eligible employees, health, dental and vision insurance coverage are offered upon hire. Retirement plans, deferred compensation plans, group life insurance, paid time off and paid holidays, training resources, health & fitness reimbursement and wellness programs are also available.

The New York City Council makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov.

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified candidates should forward their resume and a cover letter to:

E-MAIL:        counciljobs@council.nyc.gov   

MAIL:             New York City Council

Attn: Personnel Services/Recruiting (PRD)

250 Broadway, 26th Floor

New York, New York 10007

FAX:              12124014711

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The New York City Council is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.