Press Secretary

Location: Boston United States

Job Description:

Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is seeking a Press Secretary!

AGENCY MISSION:

The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is charged with creating more homes in Massachusetts and lowering housing costs for residents.

Formerly known as the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), EOHLC works with municipalities, local housing authorities, non-profit organizations, and development partners to provide affordable housing options, financial assistance, and other support to Massachusetts communities.

OVERVIEW OF ROLE (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE):

The Press Secretary is a key role within the communications team at the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC). The Press Secretary is responsible for managing the relationship with the press and coordinating responses to press inquiries related to the Administration's many housing development initiatives, housing stabilization, public housing, community development, emergency family shelter and rental assistance programs. Reporting directly to the Communications Director, the Press Secretary plays a crucial role in shaping and delivering the Secretariat's communication strategy and advising the Secretary on the most productive strategies on reactively and proactively engaging the press to further the mission of EOHLC. The Press Secretary has a direct role in developing and executing an effective social media strategy for EOHLC. This position requires exceptional communication skills, a strong understanding of media relations, proven social media management and production skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Photo/video skills also preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE):

Media Relations:

Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with the media, including journalists, reporters and editors, to respond and proactively engage with press inquiries, interview requests and both on and off the record commenting on behalf of the Secretary, Governor, Lieutenant Governor and others related to the work and programs of EOHLC.

Social Media:

Create and manage social media for EOHLC, including content capture and creation.

Material Preparation:

Prepare materials for interviews and on the record statements for review in response to requests by the press including crisis communications support for all EOHLC divisions.

Events:

Attend public events with the Secretary and intercept and manage press related interactions on site.

Collaboration:

Assist the Communications Director in creating a proactive press strategy that moves the policy agenda through the legislative process with support of the media.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience in government communications.

Knowledge of communication program activities (media relations, community relations, government relations, external and internal communications).

Knowledge and experience in social and online media, including basic video editing & publishing.

Strong interpersonal skills.

Outstanding verbal and written skills.

Ability to write and edit under tight deadlines and crisis situations, meeting, if not exceeding, deadlines is essential.

Demonstrated ability to clearly summarize and communicate complex data.

Ability to establish collaborative relations within state government.

Ability to effectively communicate and engender trust with the media community.

Flexibility and a willingness to listen and apply feedback is essential.

Ability to manage and coordinate legislative and communication programs.

Skilled in problem solving, consensus building, conflict resolution and team building.

This position would be expected to follow a hybrid model of reporting to work that combines in-office workdays and work from home days, as needed.

Salary placement is determined by years of experience and education directly related to the position and the Human Resources Division's Recruiting Guidelines. In the case of a promotional opportunity, the salary provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

PRE-OFFER PROCESS:

A background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Human Resources Division prior to the candidate being hired.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) five (5) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, professional internship, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.

Substitutions:

I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience.

II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.

III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required experience.

IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required experience.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

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