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Deputy Communications Director

The New York City Council is seeking a Deputy Communications Director to join its Communications Division. The position will help develop and execute effective communications strategies that support the Council’s priorities and Council Members. They will collaborate with staff across the Communications Division, the offices of Council Members, and staff from various divisions. The role will be responsible for developing messaging, communications strategies, talking points and press materials (op-editorials, press releases, etc.), and managing media relations.

SALARY RANGE:

$110,000 to $145,000

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assisting in the development and implementation of communications strategies that promote and support the City Council
  • Coordinating, managing, and supporting Communications Division staff to advance strategies and work plans.
  • Managing communications support for Council members and committees within a portfolio, collaborating with Members’ offices and Central staff.
  • Interacting with reporters covering City Hall, as well as those covering a range of other relevant issues to the Council, to serve as a primary spokesperson.
  • Writing, reviewing, and editing press releases, media advisories, briefing papers, speeches, talking points, and other communications materials.
  • Managing communications projects, including press events.
  • Pitching media coverage and stories on the City Council to reporters.
  • Performing other duties as necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 7 to 10 years of experience in media relations, communications, public affairs, or a related field demonstrating an increasing scope of work and responsibility.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills. Being a strong writer, who can tell a story clearly and concisely is a must, as is attention to detail and a clear ability to synthesize complex information for general audiences.
  • Deep understanding of the New York political landscape, government, and policy complexities, with a strong ability to clearly convey policy details and outcomes for multiple audiences.
  • Prior experience simultaneously managing multiple projects and competing priorities in an effective way.
  • Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment, often under short and shifting deadlines and in high-pressure situations.
  • Willingness to work non-traditional hours. Team members will be required to be on-call nights, early mornings, weekends, and on holidays, as necessary. 
  • Prior New York City media experience and/or prior government, legislative, and/or public affairs communications experience is strongly preferred.
  • Ability to effectively work with a team and independently, and capable of interacting with a broad range of individuals.
  • Proficiency in the English language.
  • Written and verbal fluency in at least one non-English language highly desired, but not required.
  • Creative thinker with a sense of humor and ability to be flexible.

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 cover letter indicating your match to the stated job requirements; your resume; a media placement; and a writing sample (e.g., press release, op-ed, etc.) to:

E-MAIL:         counciljobs@council.nyc.gov   

MAIL:             New York City Council

Attn: Personnel Services/Recruiting (DCD)

250 Broadway, 26th Floor

New York, New York 10007

FAX:               (212) 401-4711

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.