Responsibilities

• The work you'll do is more than just a job.
• This position will support the communications needs of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) by providing counsel and project execution for internal clients as well as supervise the day-to-day work and long-term strategic communications planning and implementation for MDVA earned media (media relations), internal communications and administrative support.
• The incumbent will lead proactive and reactive media relations, serving as primary spokesperson for the agency.
• The incumbent will also provide guidance to and partner with MDVA colleagues and Communications team members on the development and execution of a strategic internal communications infrastructure and plan, and management of agency receptionist/team administrative functions.
• This position will serve as the back up to Communication Director.
• To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume/application clearly describes your experience in the areas listed below, and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.

Requirements

• Four (4) years of communications and public relations experience which demonstrates the following:
• Developing and implementing strategic communications plans including media relations and internal communications.
• Creating and publishing communications tactics such as key messages, talking points, news releases, e-mails, newsletter articles, social posts and website content
• Advising and supporting leaders in preparation of scripts, speeches, presentations and press conferences
• Copy writing, editing and proofreading skills are sufficient to create digital, print or video communications
• AND
• Experience as a supervisor, team lead, lead worker or project lead
• Ability to hold difficult conversations and resolve conflicts.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, marketing or related field
• Knowledge of Minnesota media contacts
• Experience in crisis communications such as guiding a leadership team on the communications response to a crisis and /or drafting and executing a communications plan for the crisis.

Benefits

• As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
• Your benefits may include:
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• Fertility care, including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)