Deputy Director of Communications

Job Description

EOPSS Deputy Director of Communications

Job Description

Deputy Communications Director
Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS)
Location: Boston, MA

Are you passionate about public service, storytelling, and shaping impactful communication strategies? The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) is seeking an experienced and creative communications strategist to join our team as Deputy Communications Director. In this role, you'll play a pivotal part in guiding the communications strategy for EOPSS and supporting communications for the 12 public safety agencies we oversee.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on high-profile issues, collaborate with leaders in public safety, and contribute to a safer, more informed Commonwealth.

About the Role

As Deputy Communications Director, you will work closely with the Director of Communications to craft and execute messaging strategies that reflect EOPSS's mission and amplify the work of our agencies. You'll serve as a spokesperson, help manage agency-specific communications efforts and ensure consistency and clarity in how public safety messages are delivered statewide.

This role requires strategic thinking, collaboration, and the ability to manage communications during both routine and critical situations. If you're ready to make an impact, this position offers a chance to lead at the intersection of government, media, and public engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Communications Strategy Development: Assist in shaping and implementing a cohesive communications plan for EOPSS and its 12 public safety agencies, ensuring alignment with the Secretary's vision and priorities.

• Agency Guidance & Support: Partner with communications teams across public safety agencies to develop and enhance their media strategies, ensuring messages are clear, consistent, and reflective of EOPSS's mission.

• Spokesperson Duties: Act as a secondary spokesperson for EOPSS, responding to media inquiries, issuing press releases, and providing timely, accurate information to the public.

• Content Creation: Draft press releases, talking points, agency statements, and strategic messaging for public and internal audiences.

• Media Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets to advance EOPSS and agency narratives.

• Event Coordination: Plan and execute press events for EOPSS and support agencies in coordinating impactful public engagements. Requires traveling to our 12 agencies and into Boston for events.

• Media Monitoring & Insights: Track media coverage relevant to EOPSS and its agencies, advising leadership on potential responses or proactive opportunities.

• Crisis Communications: Provide on-call support during emergencies, preparing statements and guiding agency teams to ensure cohesive responses.

• Digital Strategy: Oversee content updates for EOPSS websites and assist agencies in developing engaging digital communications.

• Website posting and organization: Support the maintenance and organization of external facing information on the EOPSS website.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for a proactive, solutions-oriented professional who thrives in a collaborative and fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience: 5+ years in communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience in government, public safety, or crisis communications is strongly preferred.

• Leadership Skills: The ability to guide and mentor agency communications teams while managing complex projects.

• Exceptional Communication: Outstanding writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clarity and accessibility.

• Media Expertise: A deep understanding of media relations, including experience working with reporters, editors, and broadcast outlets.

• Adaptability: The capacity to juggle multiple priorities, work effectively under pressure, and remain calm in high-stakes situations.

• Crisis Preparedness: Experience managing communications during critical incidents or emergencies, with an understanding of the unique challenges of public safety messaging.

• Availability: Flexibility to provide on-call support during urgent situations.

Why Join Us?

At EOPSS, your work will have a direct impact on the safety and well-being of Massachusetts residents. This role offers:

• The opportunity to contribute to public safety across the Commonwealth.

• A collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to making a difference.

• A chance to work on high-profile projects that impact people and communities.

• Professional growth opportunities in a fast-paced, rewarding environment.

Apply today to join a team committed to keeping the Commonwealth informed, engaged, and safe.

Qualifications

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) five (5) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management of which (B) at least one (1) year must have been in a project management, supervisory or managerial capacity or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.

Substitutions:

I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required (A) experience.

II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required (A) experience.

III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required (A) experience.

IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required (A) experience.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.