Press Secretary

Are you tired of voters feeling their vote is not important or they are powerless to change government? Do you want to use your out-of-the box thinking, creative energy and superb communications skills to get more voters engaged? Then, read on!

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas is committed to promoting the importance of both civic education and civic engagement across the state. Recognizing knowledge is power, she is focused on teaching Connecticut residents how to navigate government and advocate for their own interests, as well as breaking down barriers that might prevent people from engaging with their government. She sees the Secretary of the State’s office as not only a place where residents can go for information and tools to use, but also as a service that goes out into communities to bring the information and tools to the residents for them to use. And the Press Secretary helps make that happen.

We are recruiting for an Executive Assistant 1 position to work in the role of Press Secretary. The Press Secretary serves as the office’s media connector, working closely with the Communications Director to execute a dynamic communications plan to elevate civic engagement and the work of the Office of the Secretary of the State. This position helps to manage and build the day-to-day relationships with local and national media and works to connect the Office with constituent communities around the state. Due to the nature of the role’s responsibilities, the incumbent may be required to attend off-site evening and weekend events.

The position is part of the Executive team, who are dedicated, passionate and fun individuals working to create the change they wish to see in the world. The work is challenging, the days can sometimes be long, but the reward is great.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Manages the planning, creation, and posting of social media content;
• Monitors social media for trending topics;
• Writes press releases, talking points, speeches, op-eds, newsletters, legislative testimony and other written materials;
• Distributes daily press clips and stays informed about current events across the state and country for their impact on the Secretary of the State and mission of the office;
• Fields and responds to media inquiries;
• Helps design and implement media, public relations, and communications strategies for the Secretary of the State;
• Staffs the Secretary at press events;
• Catalogues all media stories mentioning the Secretary and office;
• Maintains and updates press distribution list;
• Assists with managing logistics for public-facing events, both virtual and in-person;
• Remains abreast of current legislative and non-legislative issues about which the Secretary may be questioned;
• Works closely with Communications Director to determine the best way to communicate the Secretary’s work and assists with other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Three (2) years of experience in a communications or press relations role for an elected official or in a government agency or non-profit organization.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS- SPECIAL EXPERIENCE

One (1) year of experience managing social media content.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience writing press releases, talking points and other communications materials for a high level for an executive or elected official;
• Experience managing event logistics;
• Experience interacting with reporters and media outlets;
• Experience creating and editing videos;
• Experience writing copy and creating content for social media posts;
• Experience creating and editing graphics.