Responsibilities

• Serve as TLC’s primary spokesperson and on-the-record Communications Director, including for media interviews, press events, and public-facing communications.
• Manage proactive and reactive media relations, including media campaigns, in coordination with the Mayor’s Press Office, including crisis communications and rapid response, message development, and reputation management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with traditional, community, ethnic, labor, transportation, policy, and non-traditional media.
• Serve as the Commissioner’s top communications advisor providing support on media strategy and build a positive brand identity for the agency.
• Lead and mentor a small collaborative communications team that punches above its weight and works closely with the Commissioner’s Office and with the Policy, Operations, and Community Affairs teams.
• Build and oversee an agency-wide internal communications strategy in collaboration with Human Resources.
• Oversee TLC’s digital platforms including social media, newsletters, web content, and other public-facing channels, ensuring they are engaging, accessible, accurate, and aligned with agency values.
• Create storytelling campaigns that highlight TLC’s work, including driver and passenger experiences, behind-the-scenes operations, and policy wins.
• Identify and develop proactive communications opportunities that elevate TLC’s public-facing initiatives and presence at events and community forums, including Commissioner facing events.
• Oversee agency press events with TLC staff and the Mayor’s Press Office.

Requirements

• Minimum 5-10 years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, government, advocacy, or related fields.
• Experience managing a team of communications professionals with diverse portfolios.
• A track record of serving as an on the record spokesperson or senior communications lead with experience in reputation management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to take complex policy into simplified and succinct messages.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement public-facing communications strategies, beyond traditional media.
• Exceptional political acumen and the ability to navigate complex, high visibility environments with grace and clarity.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while collaborating effectively with senior leadership, internal teams, external partners, and other stakeholders.
• Commitment to equity, dignity, accountability, and excellence in public service.