Director of Communications

Overview

The City of St. Louis Mayor's Office seeks a highly skilled, innovative, and results-driven Director of Communications. This senior leadership role supports the Mayor, Chief of Staff, and other high-ranking officials in developing and executing a comprehensive, proactive, and impactful citywide communications strategy. The Director will strategically position all citywide communications, ensuring accuracy and alignment with the Mayor's Office goals, and manage a Press Secretary and Digital Communications Manager.

Position Vision

The Director must be a solutions-oriented professional who can skillfully build and nurture both internal and external relationships, establishing themselves as a credible and persuasive leader within a fast-paced, often unpredictable environment. They will actively cultivate and manage strong relationships with media contacts, and develop and pitch strategic press opportunities.

Serving as a primary communications advisor to the Mayor’s Office, the Director will be responsible for the comprehensive management of key appearances, interviews, and press conferences for the Mayor, City department heads, and other relevant personnel, ensuring consistent and effective media engagement. The position will develop and execute sophisticated media engagement, craft impactful press releases, and draft official remarks. 

This role demands a leader who can effectively manage and coordinate all Mayoral and departmental communications personnel, providing regular, insightful communications briefings to the Mayor and Chief of Staff. The Director will have the capacity to oversee and strategically guide the communications strategies and procedures not only of the Mayor’s Office but also of the entire administration. They will provide direct leadership and oversight to Mayoral and departmental communications staff, to ensure promotion of key priorities and messaging.

Position Description

The Director of Communications shapes and implements the Mayor's Office's strategic communication plans, acting at times as a public spokesperson for the office, building media and community relationships, and overseeing the Press Secretary and Digital Communications Manager. This role involves inter-departmental collaboration, simplifying complex information for public-facing initiatives, managing crisis communications, and ensuring all public messaging aligns with the Mayor's and City's mission.

Position Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning: Develop and refine a comprehensive communications strategy to support the Mayor's agenda and city goals.
• Public Spokesperson: Serve as the spokesperson for the Mayor's office and the City.
• Media Relations: Foster strong relationships with media outlets, community organizations, and government officials for positive coverage.
• Digital and Social Media Management: Oversee city social media accounts and the Digital Communications Manager.
• Internal and External Communications: Create and disseminate clear communications for city staff, residents, and stakeholders.
• Crisis Communication: Develop and execute strategies for transparent communication during emergencies and crises.
• Special Events: Plan and manage communications for special events and initiatives.

Skills and Qualifications Desired

• Strong Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication, able to clearly and persuasively articulate complex ideas.
• Leadership and Management: Proven ability to lead a communications team, manage multiple projects, and delegate effectively.
• Strategic Thinking: Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic communication plans that align with objectives.
• Media and Public Relations Expertise: Extensive experience with traditional and digital media, understanding industry trends.
• Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Crisis Management: Track record of handling sensitive situations and public crises with composure and clear communication.
• Preferred Background: Significant professional experience in public affairs, media, government, or a related field, understanding public service communications.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, or a related discipline is required.

Experience

Candidates need 5+ years of progressive communications management experience, ideally in organizational, press, advocacy, or governmental settings. They should have a proven track record of securing positive press; extensive experience managing various communication channels; and demonstrated ability to adapt to fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

Salary Range

$100,000 - $115,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit a comprehensive resume, a compelling cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the role, and three professional references, to Chief of Staff, Casey Millburg, at millburgc@stlouis-mo.gov by 5PM on Friday, October 17th.

EOC

The City of St. Louis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of St. Louis will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the City.