What are the responsibilities and job description for the Strategic Communications Advisor position at Mediabistro?
About the Human Services DepartmentThe Seattle Human Services Department's (HSD) mission is to connect people with resources and solutions during times of need so we can all live, learn, work and take part in strong, healthy communities. As Seattle continues to grow and evolve, HSD remains committed to addressing immediate challenges while laying the groundwork for sustained social well-being. We prioritize collaboration with trusted organizations to deliver impactful services, applying a results-based accountability framework to ensure our strategies achieve meaningful outcomes.HSD focuses on six impact areas : Preparing Youth for Success, Supporting Affordability and Livability, Addressing Homelessness, Promoting Public Health, Supporting Safe Communities, and Promoting Healthy Aging.
All the relevant skills, qualifications and experience that a successful applicant will need are listed in the following description.Position Summary : The Strategic Communications Advisor (Strategic Advisor 2) is part of the Legislative and External Affairs (LEA) team. LEA helps make connections and build understanding around HSD’s impact areas. Key components of LEA’s work include strategic communications, marketing and public relations, government relations, community outreach, and strategic advising.The Strategic Communications Advisor will lead communication efforts that build understanding, trust, and support for four service divisions : Youth and Family Empowerment, Homelessness, Safe and Thriving Communities, and Aging and Disability Services (ADS). Reporting to the Director of Legislative and External Affairs, the Strategic Communications Advisor has dotted-line reporting to the ADS director. ADS serves as the King County Area Agency on Aging (AAA), responsible for ensuring the community is aware of AAA-funded programs and services and know where to find help; engaging community members and partners to ensure services and systems meet their needs.
Developing and Maintaining Communication ResourcesCraft a variety of high-quality print and digital communication materials, including presentations, program announcements, and briefing materials for City and external audiences.Communicate procedural, programmatic, or policy information clearly with an attention to detail.Simplify complex or technical information for broader audiences.
Coordinating CommunicationsFacilitate development of department’s communication in key issue areas, ensuring accurate and timely information sharing.Build and maintain strong working relationships with department subject matter experts, understanding division priorities, goals, and outcomes.Prepare reports, presentations, and responses to requests for information that are audience-tailored; and provide regular updates on department initiatives and policy impacts.Develop expertise on human services topics and engage with stakeholders, responding to community or business inquiries in a timely and organized manner.
Supporting Media RelationsAssist the LEA director with media inquiries, particularly on high profile or complex topics.Draft press releases, pitches, and media briefings, coordinating with subject matter experts, and preparing staff for media engagements.Collaborate with department leadership, City department partners, and the Mayor’s Office to ensure timely responses to media requests.
Providing Strategic Counsel to Senior LeadersProvide advice to department leaders, using your research and subject matter expertise to shape decisions and actions.Understand public policy development and help address challenges to improve outcomes for residents.
Minimum Qualifications : EducationBachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Public Administration, Political Science, Journalism, or job experience in a related field.ExperienceFive years of professional experience in communications or media relations, including journalist, public information, or stakeholder engagement.Experience with policy and government relations in a large organization.Experience in handling complex or sensitive topics in public communications and effectively engaging with the public on issues of high public interest.Skills and KnowledgeAdvanced writing, storytelling, and editing skills with a demonstrated ability to produce clear, concise, and compelling communications tailored for various audiences.Advanced relationship-building skills including diplomacy and tact when navigating complex or sensitive issues.OR :
An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the position duties.
Desired Qualifications : Five years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or media relations, ideally within a government or large public sector organization focused on aging and disability service and / or family services.Proven experience working with diverse stakeholders such as elected officials, media representatives, community organizations, and cross-departmental teams.Demonstrated ability to manage and execute complex communication strategies involving high-stakes or sensitive topics with high public visibility.Experience serving as a public spokesperson and handling media relations during high-profile events, crises, or emergencies.Demonstrated success in managing multiple projects with competing priorities, from planning to execution, while meeting deadlines.Experience in cross-functional project management, working effectively with internal teams, external partners, and contractors.
The full salary range for this position is : $54.60 - $76.94 Hourly.Your application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.Hiring ProcessApplications are reviewed after the posting closes. Qualified candidates must submit the following to be considered : Completed NEOGOV online application.Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education.Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications.Supplemental questionnaire responses.Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, which may include a detailed background check, pre-placement physical exam, and / or full driver's abstract, dependent upon position.The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website.
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Salary : $55 - $77
