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City of Chicago

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

City of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States

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

  1. Develops strategies to create and maintain a positive image of the department that speak to the department’s mission and vision
  2. Maintains a strong public profile for the Commissioner and department
  3. Promotes goodwill for the department through relationship-building with reporters and launches media campaigns, including to ethnic media
  4. Designs public service announcements, press releases, website content, and other promotional material
  5. Conducts communication with community groups and other key stakeholders, as needed (e.g., newsletters, public diary, etc.)
  6. Supports staff on matters related to community engagement and public announcements
  7. Serves as liaison to various government officials and entities regarding public information matters (e.g., the Mayor’s Press Secretary’s Office, City Council)
  8. Organizes news conferences and interviews for departmental personnel
  9. Identifies opportunities to increase the department’s presence and policy agenda, including in external jurisdictions
  10. Acts as department spokesperson to media outlets
  11. Researches, writes, and edits speeches and talking points for department leaders, tying issues to public policy initiatives
  12. Establishes and manages social media accounts to increase the audience size and racial/ethnic makeup, ensuring timely distribution of information
  13. Reviews and approves budget requests for the public affairs unit, as required
  14. Oversees scheduling, staffing, and workflow of the front desk reception team, ensuring adequate coverage during business hours and breaks
  15. 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

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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:

  1. Technical Requirements
    1. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other software that improves written communication
    2. Experience managing web and social media content
    3. Experience drafting press releases and media advisories
    4. Ability to be detail-oriented composing and proofreading materials
    5. Ability to have strong public speaking skills
  2. Interpersonal Skills
    1. Knowledge and understanding of cultural competency in working with people from all socioeconomic and racial/ethnic backgrounds
    2. Ability to work effectively both in a team environment and independently
    3. Ability to self-motivate and be proactive
    4. Ability to organize and handle multiple projects simultaneously and under pressure
    5. Ability to understand departmental structures, operations, and chains of command
    6. Ability to prioritize effectively and demonstrate patience
  3. Experience in or open to addressing their own and department’s work through a racial equity lens
  4. 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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