What are the responsibilities and job description for the Deputy Press Secretary (SY24-25) position at Boston Public Schools, Office of Human Resources?
POSITION OVERVIEW:
As part of the Communications Office of the Boston Public Schools (BPS), the Deputy Press Secretary reports to the Deputy Chief of Communications and will serve as the primary point-of- contact for media outlets for the district and individual schools. The Deputy Press Secretary is responsible for the day-to-day tracking of media inquiries and requests, ensuring timely and accurate responses to media inquiries, and proactive media pitching to local, regional, and national media organizations.
The ideal candidate for the Deputy Press Secretary has an understanding of the Boston media landscape and is a self-starter who can navigate a large organization to quickly track down important information while managing tight deadlines. The Deputy Press Secretary must be a strong writer who can produce concise, accurate, and appropriate messaging.
The Deputy Press Secretary will be involved in planning press events and staffing BPS representatives during media interviews and public events. Additionally, this position will assist in producing blog posts and social media posts.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist the Communications team with the drafting of press releases and managing media inquiries and media-related events.
- Support/lead the writing, editing, production and distribution of clear, concise, family-facing print and digital materials, such as newsletters (weekly district newsletter), letters, fact sheets, and fliers to communicate the district’s goals and priorities to various BPS stakeholders, including school-based and central staff members, parents and families, students, partner organizations, community leaders, and residents.
- Contribute to BPS social media presence as assigned and monitoring, updating and responding to postings as necessary in a timely and professional manner.
- Support the coordination of internal and external communications to parents and families, students, staff, and stakeholders.
- Assess and respond to the information needs of internal and external stakeholders, including work with legal staff to comply with public records laws and the Freedom of Information Act.
- Assist in communication strategy, in collaboration with Communications team leadership and other Communications team members, on future BPS initiatives and upcoming events.
- Devise systems and mechanisms for tracking media coverage and interpreting results.
- Ensure that Communications team leadership and City of Boston partners are regularly updated on media inquiries and coverage.
- Responsible for producing daily media relations report.
- Assist in the management of the BPS website, including posting press releases and uploading documents.
- Serve as a member of the Crisis Communications team (as assigned).
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Communications, or a related field
- Minimum three years experience in media relations/public relations role (i.e. drafting press releases, fielding media inquiries, coordinating interview and press conference preparation)
- Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, especially in communicating complex policies and practices to multiple audiences
- Ability to prioritize competing demands and work in high-pressure, fast-paced environment
- Familiarity with urban education issues and understanding of community relations, preferably in the city of Boston
- Working knowledge of web communication, including content management systems and social media
PREFERRED SKILLS:
- Experience working in web design platforms using HTML
- Basic knowledge of graphic design
TERMS: Managerial, 12 months, C41
Please refer to www.bostonpublicschools.org/ohc (under "Employee Benefits and Policies") for more information on salary and compensation. Salaries are listed by Unions and Grade/Step.
The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, employment, or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record (inquiries only), disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.
