Lander for NYC: Communications Director

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JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Summary: The Communications Director is responsible for managing and executing the campaign’s day to day and long-term communications strategy to promote the candidate’s message, policies, and vision to voters, stakeholders, and the media. This senior-level position is responsible for press relations, digital outreach, written materials, rapid response, events and major announcements, ensuring consistency and alignment with the campaign’s goals. The Communications Director reports directly to the Campaign Manager and works closely with the strategic communications consultants and other departments to maximize the campaign’s visibility and impact.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Communication Planning:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications calendar and plan to reach target audiences and amplify the campaign’s message.

• Craft key messaging frameworks and ensure consistency across all campaign platforms.

• Monitor the media landscape to identify opportunities and address challenges.

Media Relations:

• Serve as a primary point of contact for journalists and media outlets.

• Build and maintain relationships with local, state, and national press.

• Draft press releases, media advisories, and statements, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

• Coordinate press events, including press conferences, interviews, and media tours.

• Implement rapid response in conjunction with senior staff.

Message Development and Delivery:

• Work with the candidate and campaign team to craft speeches, op-eds, and talking points.

• Prepare the candidate and surrogates for media appearances, debates, and public events.

• Conduct message testing and adjust strategies based on voter feedback and data insights.

• Develop and implement plans to roll out key policy priorities; package policy proposals into media-friendly products

Crisis Communications:

• Develop and execute strategies to manage crises, misinformation, and negative media coverage.

• Provide rapid response to breaking news and emerging issues.

Team Leadership and Collaboration:

• Manage the communications team, including press aides, and consultants.

• Coordinate with other departments, such as digital, organizing, finance, political and policy, to ensure communication efforts are integrated and cohesive.

• Train staff and volunteers on effective messaging and media engagement.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in political communications, public relations, or a related field.

• Proven track record of managing and implementing successful communications strategies in political campaigns or advocacy organizations.

• Political campaign experience a plus

Skills:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong understanding of media dynamics and the ability to navigate complex media environments.

• Ability to handle high-pressure situations with professionalism and poise.

Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate and respond to challenges effectively.

• High level of organization and attention to detail.

• Passion for political campaigns and a commitment to the candidate’s vision.

• Flexibility to work long hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.

• Knowledge of NYC press corps a plus but not essential

Working Conditions:

• This position may require travel within New York City.

• Must be available for irregular hours to meet the demands of a fast-paced campaign environment.

Compensation:

Salary is $8000-9500/month commensurate with experience and includes a comprehensive benefits package.