Director of Communications

Under direction, has charge of the work programs and staff concerned with internal and external communications; directs the activities pertaining to communications including the writing of speeches and correspondence for executives, and the provision of information to the public regarding agency or departmental programs and policies; does related work as required.

The Department of Banking and Insurance is seeking an experienced Communications Director to help develop a consistent voice and appropriate messaging for the Department, for both external and internal audiences. Reporting to the Director of External Affairs, this role will work closely with senior leadership to proactively develop and execute communications strategies that convey the Department’s priorities, help support and educate external stakeholders, respond to inquiries from the media and interested parties, and contribute to internal organizational management and culture.

The Communications Director will:

• Help design and execute a comprehensive communications strategy for the Department, being mindful of its varied constituencies and functions

• Lead the communications team across four core functions: strategic communications, media relations, internal communications, and digital strategy.

• Manage the drafting and rollout of Department press releases, announcements and other external stakeholder communications

• Handle press inquiries and responses

• Help draft speeches and talking points for the Commissioner and other Department leadership

• Serve as a strategic advisor to Department leadership by tracking key issues and developing key messages in coordination

• Collaborate with the Governor’s Office and other state communications professionals to ensure messaging alignment

• Draft employee communications, newsletters, and official correspondence

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree.

NOTE: Applicants who do not meet the above educational requirements may substitute additional experience as indicated below on a year-for-year basis with thirty (30) semester hour credits being equal to one (1) year of experience.

NOTE: A Master's degree in journalism or related field may be substituted for one year of experience.

EXPERIENCE

Six years of experience in journalism, public relations, or a related field, two years of which shall have been in a supervisory capacity.

Preferred Candidate Profile: Minimum of seven (7) years’ experience with significant roles in a communications, public relations, or campaign function. Exposure to banking, insurance or real estate a plus.

Other Key Attributes:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to make technical subjects accessible to lay audiences.

Self-starter with creative ideas and customer service orientation

Keen political sense and close attention to detail

Comfortable working under tight deadlines, ability to manage multiple projects at once.

Highly collaborative, comfortable working with colleagues at all levels in an organization