Communications Director

Communications Director

COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Washington, DC 20004

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The Office of D.C. Councilmember Elissa Silverman (I-At-Large) is searching for a Communications Director to develop and implement an innovative strategy to share information with local and national press, D.C. residents and businesses, and the public at large. The ideal candidate is one who knows how to optimize conventional communications platforms while not being afraid to experiment and push the envelope to find even better ways to exchange information. The person in this position will oversee crafting the message for the councilmember on issues big and small and disseminating this in easy-to-understand language. This is not an entry-level position.

Specific Duties

Ø Develop and implement communications strategy, including optimal use of email systems, CRM, the councilmember’s website, and social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram;

Ø Manage the development and distribution of materials for the councilmember including, but not limited to, press releases, formal statements, one-page legislative summaries, talking points, and monthly newsletters;

Ø Create and maintain relationships with local outlets and reporters across print, broadcast and social media, working as an aggressive and quick-thinking originator of stories to pitch;

Ø Serve as a leader in time-sensitive situations by advising the councilmember and colleagues on how to address issues of the day and executing a messaging strategy; and

Ø Serve as on-record spokesperson for the councilmember as needed.

Qualifications

Ø Strong, determined team-player with ready sense of humor, thick skin, and a demonstrated willingness to work hard and take risks;

Ø Demonstrated experience in communications, journalism, or public affairs;

Ø Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and write quickly in a compelling manner about multiple topics;

Ø Energetic ability to multi-task and manage projects in a fast-paced and changeable environment;

Ø Willingness to incorporate multiple teams and stakeholders in communications efforts when needed, as well as learn new media approaches;

Ø Ability and willingness to travel within the Washington metro area and work occasional non-traditional hours; and

Ø Unwavering commitment to serving District of Columbia residents honestly and ethically.

Individuals from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.

OFFICE BACKGROUND

Councilmember Elissa Silverman is an independent, at-large member of the Council of the District of Columbia. The councilmember chairs the Council’s Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, which primarily focuses on labor and employment policy. The committee exercises oversight over executive agencies, boards, commissions and offices; conducts annual performance and budget hearings of agencies in the committee’s jurisdiction; and directly responds to constituent requests, among other duties. The councilmember is also a member of the Housing, Government Operations, and Facilities and Procurement Committees.

The Communications Director will oversee all communications work for both the personal and committee offices and does not necessarily need familiarity with labor or workforce issues.