Director of Public Affairs

Job Description

• Collaborates with executive leadership to develop a public information strategic plan for the    

   Board. 

• Acts as the Board’s spokesperson.

• Prepares press releases and written information for distribution by media outlets.

• Plans, prepares, and posts all public-facing communications for social media and other online    

   platforms.

• Drafts speeches and arranges interviews for executive leadership.

• Working with the Board’s FOIA Officer, responds to requests for information from the media.

• Assists executive leadership in developing presentations and other important public messages. 

• Collaborates with IT department in the development and maintenance of the Board’s website. 

• Collaborates with managers to review and oversee all distribution of public outreach mailings and    

   other communications. 

• Ensures that all materials present a clear, unified, and positive image for the Board. 

• Promotes and attends special events and functions as directed by executive leadership.

• Promotes and reports on election milestones and activities as directed by executive leadership. 

• Develops and maintains positive professional relationships with members of the media.

• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

Job Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism,      

   Marketing, or related field. 

• Three to five years of experience in public relations, communications, or related field, with public  

    sector experience a plus.

• Demonstrated ability to write compelling, concise press releases and speeches.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively speak in public.

• Demonstrated ability to handle difficult situations in public settings. 

• Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills. 

• Ability to offer sound media relations advice to executive leadership. 

• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.

• Extremely proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, desktop publishing software and social media platforms.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Must be available to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends.

• Must be a City of Chicago resident.

All applications for this position will be received via email and must include a resume and cover letter. E-mail to: resumes@chicagoelections.gov include in the subject line: Director of Public Communications Position,/Your Name. 

Benefits:

Visit City of Chicago Benefits for information on health offerings.

Other Board benefits include vacation, sick, paid leave, and deferred compensation.

The Board is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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