Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the strategic communication plan for the overall RHTP and specific RHTP initiatives implemented by DSS;
• Develop, implement, and coordinate communications and briefings for internal and external stakeholders, including state agencies, Congressional and state legislators and legislative delegations, healthcare providers, municipal and regional government agencies, community-based organizations, and other community partners;
• Prepare, edit, and present reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders, such as slide decks, talking points, presentation notes, website updates, social media posts, newsletters, press releases, press conferences;
• Acting in concert with DSS’ Communications team, establish and maintain strong working relationships with media outlets to maximize opportunities for engagement on Rural Health Transformation topics.
• Support active communications and stakeholder engagement, including engaging with and providing leadership and staff support to a newly created Rural Health Transformation Advisory Council and Regional Collaboratives;
• Manage public inquiries, email lists, and other incoming communications requests;
• Pilot and test new, innovative strategies for public engagement so that DSS and its sister RHTP implementing agencies can reach key interested stakeholders living in Northeast and Northwest Connecticut;
• When directed by DSS RHTP leadership, oversee contracted partners relevant to outreach and communications, including but not limited to the RHTP evaluation contractor; and
• Manage the RHTP brand identity and visual standards across all channels, including managing review when required by the federal government in accordance with RHTP award terms and conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field; and
• 8+ years professional experience.

Preferred

• Developing and implementing internal and external communications plans;
• Strong oral and written communication, including writing, editing, presenting, and storytelling;
• Public relations/communications involving a variety of internal and external stakeholders, especially in or related to local, state or federal government;
• Customer service and problem solving;
• Demonstrated digital Literacy proficiency including email marketing and social media.