The Communications Division is responsible for advising and serving the Speaker and Council Members in all areas of Press relations, including organizing press conferences, developing media strategies and responding to breaking news. The Division also assists the Speaker and Council Members in drafting speeches, op-ed articles, columns and letters to the editor. The Division coordinates web content management training sessions and assists Council Members with strategies across all media platforms.

The New York City Council is seeking a Deputy Press Secretary to join its Communications Division. The position will help develop and execute effective communications strategies that support the body’s priorities and Council Members. They will collaborate with staff across the Communications Division, the offices of Council Members, and staff from the Legislative, Land Use and Finance divisions. The role will be responsible for developing messaging, drafting talking points and press materials (op-eds, press releases, etc.), and managing media relations.

SALARY RANGE:

$80,000 to $95,000

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Support the development and implementation of comprehensive communications strategies that elevate and advance City Council priorities.
Manage communications support for assigned Council Members and committees, coordinating closely with Members’ offices and Central Staff.
Serve as a key point of contact for reporters covering City Hall and related policy areas, building and maintaining strong media relationships.
Draft, review, and edit press materials, including press releases, media advisories, briefing papers, talking points, and statements.
Assist in planning and execution of press events for the Speaker and City Council.
Pitch media stories and coverage opportunities to reporters in collaboration with senior communications staff.
Coordinate and staff media interviews for Council Members, ensuring preparation and message alignment.
Provide general communications support and undertake special projects as assigned.

Media Inquiries & Relationship Management

Ensure timely and accurate responses to all incoming media requests, coordinating, supporting and tracking replies amongst press staff.
Manage engagement with media and responses to press inquiries by ensuring questions are appropriately addressed, relevant issues are clearly understood, applicable Council staff have been consulted for input, pertinent interviews and spokespeople are offered, and reporting is accurate.
Manage rapid response efforts to ensure Council’s voice effectively shapes coverage of breaking news.
Develop and maintain relationships with key reporters covering the Council, Speaker, relevant issues, and local and ethnic communities across the city.
Support coordination and relationship-building efforts with stakeholders, including internal Council staff and external partners in government and non-governmental organizations.

Planning & Coordinating Press Events and Opportunities

Coordinate logistics of Speaker’s press conferences and events, including inviting and preparing participants, developing and distributing messaging/talking points and press materials, conducting media outreach, determining run-of-show, orchestrating event flow, and ensuring completion of key tasks.
Write and edit public-facing press materials, including press releases, statements, op-eds, speeches, one-pagers, and talking points.
Identify and secure proactive media opportunities for the Speaker and Council Members with local and national outlets, pitching stories, interviews and op-eds.
Manage interview preparation and coordination for the Speaker, Council Members, and validators.

Advancing Communications Strategy

Serve as one of the Council’s communications strategists, developing and implementing strategies that advance key priorities to diverse audiences in partnership with various staff and divisions.
Support the development of key messaging and communications tactics that amplify the Council’s legislative and policy agenda.
Develop and implement communications and public affairs campaigns utilizing various multimedia strategies and tactics.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in communications, media relations, or a related field with a demonstrated increase in scope of work and responsibility.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communications skills
Strong organizational skills, and proven ability to solve problems, multi-task, and manage deadlines in fast-paced and high-pressure situations.
Excellent judgment, with strong creative and critical thinking skills.
Willingness to work non-traditional hours and be on call during early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays, as necessary.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

New York City residency required within 90 days of appointment.

For eligible employees, health, dental and vision insurance coverage are offered upon hire. Retirement plans, deferred compensation plans, group life insurance, paid time off and paid holidays, training resources, health & fitness reimbursement and wellness programs are also available.

The New York City Council makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov.

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified candidates should forward their cover letter indicating your match to the stated job requirements; your resume; and a writing sample (e.g., traditional/digital/social media content) to:

E-MAIL: counciljobs@council.nyc.gov

MAIL: New York City Council

Attn: Personnel Services/Recruiting (DPRESS)

250 Broadway, 26th Floor

New York, New York 10007

FAX: 12124014711

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The New York City Council is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

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Deputy Press Secretary