Job Description
City of Chicago DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS Chicago, Illinois Apply Now Starting Salary: Up to $108,060.00
Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm CST on 01/03/2025
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Develops strategies to create and maintain a positive image of the department that speak to the department’s mission and vision
Maintains a strong public profile for the Commissioner and department
Promotes goodwill for the department through relationship-building with reporters and launches media campaigns, including to ethnic media
Designs public service announcements, press releases, website content, and other promotional material
Conducts communication with community groups and other key stakeholders, as needed (e.g., newsletters, public diary, etc.)
Supports staff on matters related to community engagement and public announcements
Serves as liaison to various government officials and entities regarding public information matters (e.g., the Mayor’s Press Secretary’s Office, City Council)
Organizes news conferences and interviews for departmental personnel
Identifies opportunities to increase the department’s presence and policy agenda, including in external jurisdictions
Acts as department spokesperson to media outlets
Researches, writes, and edits speeches and talking points for department leaders, tying issues to public policy initiatives
Establishes and manages social media accounts to increase the audience size and racial/ethnic makeup, ensuring timely distribution of information
Reviews and approves budget requests for the public affairs unit, as required
Oversees scheduling, staffing, and workflow of the front desk reception team, ensuring adequate coverage during business hours and breaks
Trains, mentors, and supports front desk staff, providing guidance on customer service standards, departmental programs and services, and the use of communication systems. Addresses any issues, complaints, or concerns in a timely and professional manner
Additional duties may be required for this position
THIS POSITION IS SHAKMAN EXEMPT
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Nine (9) years of work experience in the development and implementation of public information programs, of which two (2) years are in a supervisory role; OR
Associates degree in Journalism, Communications, or a directly related field, plus seven (7) years of work experience in the development and implementation of public information programs, of which two (2) years are in a supervisory role; OR
Bachelors degree in Journalism, Communications, or a directly related field, plus five (5) years of work experience in the development and implementation of public information programs, of which two (2) years are in a supervisory role; OR
Masters degree in Journalism, Communications, or a directly related field, plus four (4) years of work experience in the development and implementation of public information programs, of which two (2) years are in a supervisory role
Preference will be given to candidates possessing the following:
Technical Requirements
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other software that improves written communication
Experience managing web and social media content
Experience drafting press releases and media advisories
Ability to be detail-oriented composing and proofreading materials
Ability to have strong public speaking skills
Interpersonal Skills
Knowledge and understanding of cultural competency in working with people from all socioeconomic and racial/ethnic backgrounds
Ability to work effectively both in a team environment and independently
Ability to self-motivate and be proactive
Ability to organize and handle multiple projects simultaneously and under pressure
Ability to understand departmental structures, operations, and chains of command
Ability to prioritize effectively and demonstrate patience
Experience in or open to addressing their own and department’s work through a racial equity lens
Department of Housing (DOH) welcomes candidates that speak and write fluently in Spanish
The City of Chicago is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Military Friendly Employer.
The City of Chicago is committed to providing fair chance hiring and welcomes applicants with past convictions, recognizing the value of a diverse workforce and the potential for growth and positive change.
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Job Tags
Work experience placement,