Communications Director

Full Position description available here:

https://senate.michigan.gov/media/lmqjvxrr/communications-director-victory.pdf

Interested applicants, please send a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples with the Subject Line: Communications Director by email to: SGilbert@senate.michigan.gov

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Member and Chief of Staff, the Communications Director manages communications for the Member’s office as well as the member’s schedule. As necessary, the Communications Director drafts press releases, newsletters and other correspondence; manages the member’s social media accounts; attends meetings; and answers incoming phone calls from constituents. The Communications Director is also responsible for the creation and implementation of a social media presence for the Senate Member.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Writes press releases, media advisories, print and electronic newsletters, opinion columns, speeches, social media posts, constituent communications, and other communication as requested
• Maintains Senate Member’s calendar, schedules, appointments, and meetings
• Coordinates events held within the district and in Lansing
• Serves as a primary point of contact for the Member’s constituent casework
• Meets with constituents
• Answers and responds to constituent phone calls, email, and mail
• Drafts and edits various correspondence, including constituent responses and ceremonial letters
• Monitors major district happenings
• Assists with the development of the digital presence of the Senate Member
• Assists with the development and execution of digital advertising and communications plans for the Senate Member
• Performs special projects assigned by the Member or Chief of Staff

SECONDARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attends committee meetings, as necessary
• Monitors and reviews news articles from the Member’s district
• Attends community events on behalf of the Member, as necessary
• Assists with general administrative tasks, including copying, filing, proofreading, and answering incoming calls, as necessary
• Performs other duties, as assigned

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma, or equivalent, required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Forward facing customer service experience preferred
• Other combinations of education and experience evaluated on an individual basis

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of the legislative process and of the structure and policies of state government
• Ability to effectively communicate with constituents who may be frustrated, distraught, or confrontational
• Ability to use basic computer applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work outside of normal work schedule, as necessary
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines that may be rigid or subject to change on short notice
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of information
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to use diplomacy, discretion, and good judgment when disseminating information

This job description is not intended as a comprehensive list of all of the duties required of this position. Additional duties may be assigned from time to time, and the listed duties are subject to change at any time, with or without notice.

All offers of employment at the Michigan Senate are contingent upon clear results of a criminal history background check. Background checks will be conducted after a tentative offer of employment has been made and accepted.

STATUS: Salaried, with a standard benefit package

SALARY: $40,000 - $45,000

GOVERNING CAUCUS: Republican