Deputy Commissioner, Strategic Communications

City of New York; New York (NY); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of New York's Office of Technology and Innovation seeks a Deputy Commissioner to lead strategic communications and public affairs, guiding executive messaging and intergovernmental engagement. You will translate technology and policy into clear, compelling narratives, oversee crisis communications, and shape internal and external communications across OTI.

You will build strong relationships with officials, media, partners, and diverse communities, driving high-impact initiatives from

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressively responsible experience leading communications, public affairs, intergovernmental affairs, or government relations.
• Strategic advisor to senior executives and translate priorities into action.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, capturing executive voice and synthesizing complex input.
• Strong strategic judgment, identifying core messages, risks and opportunities.
• Ability to translate complex technology and policy issues into clear, compelling communications.
• Experience building productive relationships with government officials, media, advocates, partners, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience leading high-performing teams, setting priorities and coaching staff.
• Proven ability to drive complex, high-profile initiatives from concept through completion.
• Experience engaging diverse communities and addressing inequities through technology.
• Attention to detail and delivering polished work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Serve as strategic advisor translating leadership priorities into clear communications and public affairs strategies.
• Shape and maintain a compelling agency narrative that connects initiatives to OTI's mission and outcomes.
• Set and maintain high standards for executive communications, including press releases, testimony, speeches, talking points, briefs, and digital content.
• Translate complex technology and policy issues into clear communications for non-technical audiences.
• Lead OTI's media relations strategy and coordinate with City Hall and partner agencies.
• Lead crisis and sensitive-issue communications and advise leadership on response strategies.
• Develop and lead intergovernmental affairs strategy and oversight of hearings and engagements.
• Oversee internal communications and organizational alignment, and develop the team.

Skills

Strategic advisory

Executive communications

Writing & editing

Strategic judgment

Tech policy translation

Stakeholder engagement

Team leadership

Project management

Equity in comms

Attention to detail

Job description

The City of New York's Office of Technology and Innovation seeks a Deputy Commissioner to lead strategic communications and public affairs, guiding executive messaging and intergovernmental engagement. You will translate technology and policy into clear, compelling narratives, oversee crisis communications, and shape internal and external communications across OTI.

You will build strong relationships with officials, media, partners, and diverse communities, driving high-impact initiatives from