Communications Director

Congresswoman Val Hoyle (D-OR-04) seeks a self-starting, highly experienced, and creative Communications Director to join her Washington, D.C. office and lead a fast-paced communications team. The ideal candidate will have familiarity with national press, the House franking process, and will work closely with the Deputy Chief of Staff/Legislative Director, District Director, and report to the Chief of Staff to set the Congresswomen’s messaging priorities. This position will be the direct supervisor of the Digital Manager/Press Assistant and any press interns.  This is not an entry-level position.

Essential Job Functions Required

• Develops and implements strategic communications plans for the office, including working closely with the legislative team to develop media strategies to roll out legislation, send letters, and make other major announcements
• Successfully and consistently pitches the Congresswoman to both local and national TV, radio, and print media
• Helps plan and staffs DC- and district-based events such as press conferences, tele-townhalls, and roundtables, etc. 
• Prepares for, brief, and staffs the Congresswoman for media interviews, press conferences, roundtables, and other engagements;
• Drafts talking points, speeches, press releases, op-eds and other materials, as necessary, and in the Congresswoman’s voice;
• Speaks on background with reporters and act as a media liaison for the Congresswoman;
• Helps manage social media presence, this includes drafting social media copy, clipping interviews, and creating graphics to circulate across platforms;
• Maintains and updates office website to ensure that it features timely content;
• Serves as the formal spokesperson and media liaison for the Member;
• Develops and implements media, communications, and public relations strategy for the Member;
• Oversees digital media, website and other communications consultant;
• Remains abreast of current legislative and non-legislative issues about which the Member may be questioned;
• Evaluates current events and media reports in the district and the nation for their impact on the Member;
• Provides ideas and advice on the effect in the media of the Member's actions and legislative activities;
• Creates official digital ads and other graphics;
• Writes speeches for the Member;
• Meets attendance requirements as established by the office;
• Maintains a good working relationship with the Member, staff, media, and constituents;
• Works well under pressure and handles stress;
• Supervises Press Secretary and any assigned Press Interns;
• Accepts performance-based criticism and direction;
• Works a flexible schedule including long hours, nights and weekends; and
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Skills

• Exceptionally strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills;
• Deep understanding of print, broadcast, and online media;
• Understanding of House franking process and regulations;
• Experience with digital communications, including paid ads and analytics reports;
• Background in graphic design, including graphics, videos, CANVA or Adobe Suite preferred;
• Experience developing communication strategy for a Member of Congress, an elected official, a federal agency, or a private or non-profit organization;
• Expertise in advising others on a communication strategy and ability to work well on a team;
• Able to make split-second decisions and develop communications under tight deadlines;
• Strategic thinker, politically savvy and comfortable navigating difficult situations with press and staff; and
• Time management skills, ability to work under pressure, and comfortable balancing multiple responsibilities at once.

This office is an equal opportunity employer; we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, parental status, military status, or any other factor or basis prohibited by applicable federal law. Qualified candidates should submit a resume and cover letter.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in an office environment. A hybrid work arrangement involving telecommuting may also be approved, consistent with the needs of the office.
• Noise levels in the office are usually moderate.
• Ability to work in a small workstation without expectation of privacy.

Education/Experience

At least three-years of political and/or communications experience with strong academic credentials. Alternatively, four-years of related experience or training in communications or equivalent similar experience. Experience working in Congress is preferred.

The Office is accepting resumes and will review them on a rolling basis. Please have them send a resume and cover letter to resumes.hoyle@mail.house.gov with the subject line: Communications Director Opening. No calls or drop-ins please.