Communications Director

Introduction

The office of State Senator Dianne Hesselbein is currently accepting applications for a Communications Director to join her State Capitol office.

The annual salary range for this position is $77,076 – $117,528, dependent on skills, experience, and qualifications.

In addition, this position receives the same fringe benefits available to other State of Wisconsin employees. For more information related to benefits, please see: https://etf.wi.gov/benefits-by-employer

Position Summary

The Communications Director manages all external communications for the Senate Democratic Leader’s office. This includes writing press releases, statements, columns, speeches & talking points for public appearances and/or floor sessions, overseeing social media platforms, caucus video and audio productions, office website development and maintenance, and rapid response communications.

This position will work with the Deputy Communications Director to complete all tasks and projects. The position also includes working with the Graphic Designer in the development of graphics and other printed materials.

The Communications Director oversees media relations for the Senate Democratic Leader’s office and Senate Democratic Caucus, which includes coordinating press conferences, media briefings, interacting with members of the press, and interviews on legislative initiatives both in district and throughout the state.

The position provides communications support and strategic guidance to Democratic Senate offices, including editing and reviewing communications materials, drafting talking points and messaging guidance on complex policy issues, leading Communications Directors meetings, coordinating caucus-wide messaging, and proactively identifying communications opportunities for members.

The Communications Director works with the senior leadership team to plan and execute long term communications plans, often overseeing multiple plans simultaneously.

This position will often be communicating complex policy information, therefore previous experience working with policy issues or in the state legislature is preferred; however, those with a strong desire to learn are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• A degree in Journalism, Public Relations, or Communications, or, relevant communications experience;
• 2-4 years of communications experience, with demonstrated expertise in working with media outlets;
• Strong verbal and written communications skills;
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and prioritize simultaneous competing projects and duties;
• Ability to be highly productive and meet deadlines under fast-paced conditions;
• Excellent organizational and follow-through skills;
• High degree of professionalism and an understanding of discretion, attention to detail, and the occasional long hours needed to effectively staff a state legislator.

How To Apply

We are seeking candidates who are legally authorized to work in the United States and will not require employer visa sponsorship now or in the future. A background check will be conducted on all finalists prior to an offer of employment.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references to [email protected]