Responsibilities

• Strategic Communications: Develop and support comprehensive internal and external communications strategies that highlight client advocacy, systemic inequities, and mission-driven public defense work.
• Media & Public Relations: Build and maintain relationships with journalists to elevate stories illustrating client experiences and the importance of public defense.
• Content Development & Messaging: Create and oversee other staff in preparation of compelling written and digital content—including newsletters, brochures, web content, reports, and storytelling pieces—that communicate client experiences and organizational impact.
• Advocacy Outreach & Stakeholder Communication: Enhance MSPD public presence by improving clarity and resonance of messaging that communicates our impact and values.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Five or more years of communications experience with success creating persuasive, mission-forward messaging. (Additional experience could substitute for educational requirement listed above).
• Outstanding writing and editing skills with experience translating complex systemic issues into clear, compelling narratives.
• Proven ability to strengthen public understanding of organizational mission through strategic storytelling and media engagement.
• Highly collaborative style with strong relationship-building skills across diverse staff, clients, and stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills with experience managing multiple projects, deadlines, and content streams.
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Proficiency with digital communications tools, content management systems, and social media platforms.
• Familiarity with the legal system or public defense environment is a plus.

Preferred

Benefits

• The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage.
• Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck.
• To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator.