CITIZENS HOUSING & PLANNING is hiring: Press Secretary in Boston

Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities

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 are also preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE):

1. 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.
2. Social Media: Create and manage social media for EOHLC, including content capture and creation.
3. 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.
4. Events: Attend public events with the Secretary and intercept and manage press-related interactions on site. Assist the Communications Director in creating a proactive press strategy that moves the policy agenda through the legislative process with the 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.
• 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.

COMMENTS:

Please upload resume and cover letter.

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.