What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Assistant/Press Secretary position at City of Baltimore, MD?
THIS IS A NON-CIVIL SERVICE POSITION
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
PRESS SECRETARY
POSTING DATE: January 17, 2025
SALARY RANGE: $55,497 - $88,796
BACKGROUND CHECK
Eligible candidates under final consideration for appointment to positions identified as positions of trust will be required to complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint must be successfully completed.
PROBATION
All persons, including current City employees, selected for this position must complete a mandatory 6-month probation.
RESPONSIBILITIES
OVERVIEW:
The Press Secretary will serve in Baltimore City to help drive positive coverage and messaging. The ideal candidate has experience in political communications and media, has worked directly with members of the press, and possesses excellent writing skills. The Press Secretary will be an on-the-record spokesperson for Mayor Scott, helping to lead all aspects of media relations, including handling press inquiries, writing press releases, and organizing press conferences. They will establish and maintain contact with significant print and broadcast journalists, as well as representatives of local, ethnic, and community media outlets, to ensure comprehensive representation of the City of Baltimore. This role requires rapid response capabilities for emergencies and a strategic approach to developing and delivering communications strategies. Seeking a savvy writer, a meticulous organizer with the utmost attention to detail, and a creative entrepreneurial spirit. The Press Secretary will serve as the first point of contact for all media-related inquiries. Responsibilities include but are not limited to - Monitor and drafting responses to media queries and interview requests, drafting press releases, op-eds, public statements, talking points, and speeches, work with multiple teams across the Office of the Mayor and within the City of Baltimore to help execute messaging around city priorities and accomplishments. The press secretary will also collaborate with the digital director on all social media content to maintain message discipline across all social media platforms.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
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RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. - Monitor media coverage and provide daily reports to the Mayor and senior staff.
- Serve as the day-to-day media point of contact for local and national media on issues in the City of Baltimore, liaising with senior staff of the Executive Staff of the Mayor's Office and communicating information to city agencies when needed.
- Prepare press releases and associated materials for major and daily events and announcements; develop and draft press releases, briefings, speeches, and talking points.
- Screen, respond to, or refer press inquiries to appropriate staff.
- Review daily news articles and create press clips to circulate and file relevant items.
- Assist the Director of Communications in coordinating all details of press conferences with Mayor Scott and other senior administration officials, booking media appearances, and major media events.
- Keep abreast of media-relevant issues and inform staff of the Mayor's scheduled appearances.
- Work with counterparts across City Government to communicate the Administration’s priorities and work to residents and media partners.
- Proactively identify and cultivate new opportunities to publicize City of Baltimore programs, activities, research, staff, and student accomplishments through local, national, specialty/trade, and international news media.
- As needed, prepare and staff organizational spokespersons for media interviews and speaking engagements.
Crisis Communication:
- Develop and implement crisis communication strategies.
- Serve as the spokesperson during emergencies, providing timely and accurate information to the public and media.
- Prepare and distribute emergency statements and press releases.
- Coordinate with emergency management teams to ensure consistent and clear communication.
Working Conditions:
- This position requires availability outside regular business hours, including nights and weekends, especially during emergencies.
- The Press Secretary may need to travel with the Mayor for events and press engagements.
PERFERRED QUALIFCATIONS
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, or a related field.
- On-the-record experience preferred
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or a similar role, preferably within government or public service.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Well-developed understanding of the logistics involved in the print, TV news, and digital media fields.
- Proven experience in crisis communication and emergency response.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Ability to effectively manage multiple projects and handle competing deadlines, with an attention to detail.
- Commitment to public service and the mission of Mayor Scott’s administration.
BENEFITS
The City of Baltimore offers a generous and competitive benefits package. You can learn about our benefits here:
https://humanresources.baltimorecity.gov/hr-divisions/benefits
Baltimore City Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Baltimore prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, ancestry, creed, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Applicants requiring accommodations during the hiring process should contact the Department of Human Resources directly. Requests for accommodations should not be attached to the application.
BALTIMORE CITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Salary : $55,497 - $88,796
