Communications Director

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications Leadership

Develop and execute a cohesive communications strategy tied to the Councilmembers policy agenda and committee work.
Translate complex legislation and data into clear compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
Advise the Councilmember and senior staff on message development timing and risk/opportunity.
Set goals and metrics for communications outputs and outcomes track and report performance.
 

Media Relations & Press

Build and maintain strong relationships with local regional and national media.
Proactively pitch stories op-eds and commentary that elevate the Councilmembers work.
Draft and distribute press releases media advisories and statements.
Prepare the Councilmember for interviews including talking points briefing memos and Q&A.
 

Digital & Content Strategy

Oversee the voice content and cadence of all digital channels (social media email website 
newsletters).
Manage the Councilmembers social media presence with an authentic values-aligned voice.
Plan and execute data-informed digital campaigns to reach key constituencies.
Ensure accessibility and platform-appropriate content (graphics video and written).

Events Public Engagement & Reputation Management

Design and support press events public events and town halls that highlight the Councilmembers 
priorities.
Coordinate with legislative and outreach teams to align messaging and ensure strong turnout and follow-through.
Monitor media social media and public sentiment; identify and correct misinformation.
Lead communications during high-profile issues or crises balancing transparency and risk management.

Internal Collaboration & External Partnerships

Work closely with policy staff to elevate committee work hearings and legislative milestones.
Partner with the outreach team to support neighborhood engagement community partnerships and 
coalition-building.
Coordinate communications on joint initiatives with City agencies advocacy organizations and other 
Council offices.

Core Competencies

Exceptional writer and editor with a demonstrated ability to produce clear concise persuasive content across formats: speeches op-eds press releases talking points newsletters and social posts.
Strategic storyteller who can connect data to human stories and move audiences to understanding and 
action.
Media-savvy operator with experience pitching and working directly with reporters and editors.
Digitally fluent in social media and digital communications including platform best practices and basic analytics.
Sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive issues confidential information and political 
dynamics.
Equity and cultural competency with demonstrated comfort working alongside diverse communities across Philadelphia.
Strong project and time management skills; able to manage multiple deadlines and pivot quickly.

 

Qualifications :

Bachelors degree required.
At least 24 years of relevant communications experience in government campaigns media public 
affairs corporate communications or related fields. Candidates with more experience are strongly 
encouraged to apply.
Experience with the Philadelphia media marketor a comparable urban environmentis a strong plus.
Experience operating in high-visibility high-stakes settings (elected office major nonprofit corporate or 
advocacy environments) preferred.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word PowerPoint Excel) and familiarity with content management 
and social media tools.

Additional Information :

TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a resume references and portfolio.

Salary Range:  $75000 $80000

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:

• Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTAs Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses subways trolleys and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
• Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation sick leave and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available
• Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
• Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses extending not only to City employees but in some cases spouse and dependents too!

Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

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No

Employment Type :

Full-time