Director of Communications

Responsibilities

• lead the Department’s overall communications strategy by directing, planning, writing, designing, editing, and producing a wide range of effective communication projects;
• manage the Department’s media communications to ensure responses are appropriate, timely and in accordance with Department interests and policies;
• maintain and foster relationships with members of the statewide media pool;
• work directly with reporters from media outlets across the state to coordinate interviews and provide information and context on department programs;
• direct and supervise the Department’s digital content manager PIO and Wildland Fire PIO;
• oversee the Departments comprehensive social media strategy;
• stay well-informed of current public issues that may involve the Department and all programs including issues at the local, state and national levels;
• assist department programs with creating, drafting, and editing communications with other local, state, and federal agencies.
• write press releases, public service announcements, speeches, presentations, and speaking points for Department officials;
• assist Department programs in creating and developing program specific website and media projects;

Requirements

• At least one to three years of experience working in or with the news media such as newspaper, TV, radio. Experience as a digital content manager, photographer or videographer is also preferred.
• Knowledge Of effective communication and marketing strategies;
• Knowledge Of proactive relationship building and media relations;
• Innovative approaches to traditional, digital and social media messaging;
• Effective use of photography and videography;
• State government practices and environment;
• Computer software pertinent to desktop publishing and website development.
• Strong written and oral communication skills;
• Knowledge of all media platforms including social and digital;
• Effective computer and software skills to perform the duties of the position;

Preferred

• Experience as a digital content manager, photographer or videographer is also preferred.

Benefits

• The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information here . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.