Deputy Communications Director: Public Affairs & Strategy

Illinois Department of Children & Family Services; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 134,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Pension Plan

Paid Parental Leave

Deferred Compensation Program

Sick Days (12)

Vacation Days (10)

Job summary

Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services seeks a Deputy Communications Director to help lead internal and external communications, including strategies around federal requirements and public outreach. The role reports to the Director of Communications and involves coordinating statewide messaging for diverse stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will have strong writing and organizational skills, plus prior experience in media relations and public affairs.

Qualifications

• Four-year college degree in journalism, communications, marketing, or liberal arts.
• Four years of related administrative experience in media relations, public affairs, or a comparable field.
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism/communications/marketing or related field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Deputy Communications Director for the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).
• Assist with statewide marketing and communications related to new federal requirements.
• Develop and oversee content on the agency’s public website and social media channels.
• Prepare materials and coordinate attendance at events (press engagements, hearings, state fairs).
• Represent HFS with the Governor’s Office and other agencies on sensitive issues.
• Serve as a full line supervisor.
• Perform other duties within the scope of the listed duties.

Skills

General Administration

Marketing

Public Affairs

Media Relations

Public Speaking

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services seeks a Deputy Communications Director to help lead internal and external communications, including strategies around federal requirements and public outreach. The role reports to the Director of Communications and involves coordinating statewide messaging for diverse stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will have strong writing and organizational skills, plus prior experience in media relations and public affairs.