Communications Director

Communications Director

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Cherfilus-McCormick, Sheila - Rep.

a day ago

Communications Director – The Office of Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick, a Ranking Member of

the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s (HFAC) Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee and

Returning Member of the House Veteran Affairs Committee (HVAC) seeks a communications Director to

lead the Member Office’s strategic communications efforts.

The Communications Director will serve as the spokesperson and primary communications advisor to the

Member. They will be responsible for overseeing, developing, and executing an aggressive strategic

communications plan, including owned, social and earned media (traditional and unconventional). They

will be responsible for the overall messaging of the Office. The Communications Director will also serve

in the capacity of Press Secretary.

The ideal candidate is a leader, strategic thinker, advisor, manager, team leader and player, strong writer

and researcher, skilled listener and communicator, detail-oriented and organized, responsive and accessible,

a creative problem solver, and self-motivated.

This position reports to the Chief of Staff.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Develops and implements an aggressive and effective communications strategy for the Member;

• Leads and manages the Member’s communications strategy and plan;

• Identifies and establishes the Congresswoman’s voice of authority and increase her profile through

national, local, unconventional media (i.e., daytime TV, podcasts, speaking opportunities, strategic

messaging events) and influencer engagement;

• Leads and manages the Member’s communications team, including managing and overseeing the

performance of the communications team;

• Evaluates current events and media reports in the district and the nation for their impact on the

Member;

• Positions the Member in key national, state and local media, including unconventional media such

as daytime TV, podcasts, fireside chats, speaking opportunities, press conferences, public events,

roundtables, and other opportunities;

• Ensures that the Member’s communications strategy is incorporated and/or translated into the

legislative plan and the district;

• Collaborates with the district office to identify key issues affecting the constituents (and proposing

key messaging);

• Works directly with the Congresswoman to prepare and staff her for interviews, speeches, press

conferences, public events, roundtables, and other opportunities;

• Develops or coordinates remarks and speeches for the Member;

• Oversees and approves all digital communications and social media content;

• Works with legislative staff and others to prepare the Congresswoman’s remarks for public and

private events;

• Oversees relationship-building communications with other Congressional offices (ex: sends

birthday, condolences, and holiday cards);

• Performs other duties as assigned;

• Accepts performance-based criticism and direction;

• Possesses a temperament to communicate with a variety of personalities in a tactful, pleasant, and

professional manner;

• Meets attendance requirements as established by the office;

• Works well under pressure and handles stress;

• Works a flexible schedule including long hours, nights, and weekends as needed according to the

Congressional schedule;

• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Hill experience (preferred);

• Master’s degree (preferred);

• 2-5 years of Capitol Hill experience (preferred);

• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills;

• Strong relationships with reporters and ability to regularly pitch stories;

• Strong ability and experience in storytelling;

• Strong understanding of print, digital, and broadcast media;

• Knowledge of current issues and events in which the Member is involved;

• Understanding of House franking rules; and

• Ability to work well under pressure, as well as cooperatively and courteously with others.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Starting salary is $90k. The position offers health coverage; retirement benefits with an employer

match; paid sick, bereavement, and vacation leave; 6-12 weeks of paid FMLA leave; transit or

parking benefits; access to life insurance coverage; and access to the Student Loan Repayment

Program. The office is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race,

religion, disability, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, LGBTQ identification, family status,

or military status. Women, people of color, and other members of traditionally underrepresented

communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

TO APPLY:

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The office will contact the best qualified

candidates to begin the interview process. To apply, please email FL20Jobs@mail.house.gov

with “Communications Director” in the subject line and the following materials: (1) cover letter,

(2) resume, (3) transcript, (4) two references including name, current title and organization, phone

number and email and (5) portfolio if applicable.