Deputy Director, Communications and Legislative Affairs

Why does the job exist?

The Deputy Director, Communications and Legislative Affairs plays a vital role in promoting the accomplishments and building the reputation of CYFD among legislators, the press, and other external stakeholders and constituents, analyzing and tracking legislative proposals, and coordinating and representing
the agency at external events.

How does it get done?

Communication/Media Relations - Serve as media liaison and spokesperson for the Department, working with stakeholders to draft and ensure accurate and timely responses to media and other public information inquiries. Draft news releases, written materials, and talking points and speeches for department representatives, writing in a clear, accurate, and persuasive manner. Update the external website in collaboration with other division staff. (50% of time)
Legislative Engagement - Work with the Cabinet Secretary and senior department leadership to strengthen relationships with legislators through regular communication to share the Department's work and progress. Track and analyze legislation and attend hearings during legislative sessions and, during the interims, attend legislative committee meetings and keep agency leadership informed of pertinent information. Write briefings
and one-pagers on key legislation. (30% of time)
Public Affairs - Work with the Cabinet Secretary and senior department leadership to communicate with external stakeholders, constituents, and other interested parties about their needs and concerns and about CYFD's mission, policies, and programs. (20% of time)

Ideal Candidate
Skilled in the following areas:
Previous experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field;
Understanding of media relations and press management to maintain regular contact with reporters who cover the agency;
Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively through both oral and written communications;
Experience working with a state legislature as a staff person or in government relations;
Skilled at developing and strengthening community relationships

Minimum Qualification
A Bachelor's degree in any field of study from an accredited college or university and eight (8) years of professional-level experience with a light strategic impact directly related to the purpose of the position defined by the agency at the time of recruitment. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling twelve (12) years may substitute for the required education and experience. A hiring agency will designate a portion of the required experience to include
management, supervisory and/or specialized experience. Any required licensure, certification or registration shall be defined at the time of recruitment and will be in addition to the above requirements.

Employment Requirements
Must possess a current and valid Driver's License. Pre-employment background investigation is required and conditional pending results.

Working Conditions
Work is performed in an office setting with exposure to Visual/Video Display Terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and phone usage.

Agency Contact Information: Jennifer Webber, (505) 637-1687. Email