Director of Communications

Duties Description Overview : The Office of State Senator-Elect Chris Ryan seeks a highly motivated Director of Communications to provide strategic oversight and execution of the Senator's messaging, external communications, and press relations. This is a senior leadership position within the Office, requiring calm performance under pressure, creative problem solving and self-direction.

Responsibilities in this dynamic role include :

• Preparing media advisories, press releases, statements, talking points, quotes, and speeches;
• Planning, executing, and documenting press conferences in locations in both Onondaga County and Oswego County, including interfacing with local officials, members of the press, and community partners. Occasional travel to / coordination in Albany is required;
• Drafting, posting, and monitoring social media content across the Senator's Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Bluesky pages;
• Advising staff on the Senator's positions and preparing internal and external talking points and constituent responses;
• Fielding calls and inquiries from members of local, state, and national press;
• Scheduling and coordinating media appearances for the Senator;
• Staffing the Senator at local events, taking photos / video when appropriate;
• Attending local events on the Senator's behalf, with occasional speaking opportunities;
• Maintaining and publishing content on the Senator's NYSenate.gov microsite;
• Drafting, designing, and distributing email newsletters to constituents using the Senate's Bluebird Mail platform;
• Collaborating with the Event Coordinator and other members of staff to produce event materials, posters, flyers, and invitations;
• Maintaining digital and analogue records of the Senator's press clippings;
• Monitoring and maintaining the Senator's listing and photos across various websites;
• Exhibiting unquestionable professionalism and adherence to ethical standards;
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications Candidates must be highly dependable, organized, and have strong written and oral communication skills.

Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of experience in communications or marketing for government or non-profit organizations, as well as demonstrated design sensibility, is preferred. Existing relationships with / understanding of local media is a plus. Access to a personal vehicle is required.

Preferred software familiarity : Google Suite (Sheets, Docs, Forms), Microsoft Office, Canva or Adobe, Mailchimp or ConstantContact.

Additional Comments This full-time position is located in Syracuse, NY (covering parts of Onondaga and Oswego counties).

Salary range is $68,000 to $70,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and a resume with references to jobs@nysenate.gov. Submissions that do not include both will not be considered. Please keep in mind that we are looking for cover letters that tell us in your own words why you are a great candidate for the job and not something that simply repeats the information in your resume.

This recruitment will remain open until filled. Due to the volume of applications, we will not be able to respond to each applicant.

The NYS Senate offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes a health and wellness in the workplace program that you and your family can benefit from :

The New York State Senate is an Equal Opportunity employer that values a diverse and equitable workplace. We do not permit discrimination based on race, age, creed, color, religion, gender / sex, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, national origin, predisposing genetic characteristics, or physical or mental disability, domestic violence victim status, arrest / criminal conviction record, pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity or expression, sexual harassment, immigration status, or hair texture or protective hair styles.

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

Name Hiring Coordinator

Telephone n / a

Fax n / a

Email Address jobs@nysenate.gov

Address

Street 333 East Washington Street

State Office Bldg.

City Syracuse

State NY

Zip Code 13202

Notes on Applying Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and a resume with references to jobs@nysenate.gov. Submissions that do not include both will not be considered.

Salary : $68,000 - $70,000