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.

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.
• - Employment reference checks will be conducted on finalists. This may include a review of documentation related to job performance and contact with the applicant's former employer(s).

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)