Director of Public Communications & Media Relations

Department for the Aging; New York (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The NYC Department for the Aging seeks a dynamic Communications Director to serve as the agency’s spokesperson and lead the Press and Public Information unit. You will secure local and national media coverage for NYC Aging programs and manage responses to press inquiries with urgency and accuracy.

You will oversee promotional campaigns, prepare press materials, coordinate events, and supervise PPI staff while collaborating with city agencies and leadership teams to advance aging-related

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required with five years of relevant professional experience in social services, community relations, public administration or management.
• Experience in an administrative or managerial capacity within a public-sector environment is preferred.
• Knowledge of the public sector and NYC government structure is advantageous.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to handle press communications and media relations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the agency’s spokesperson and lead the Press and Public Information unit.
• Pitch and place stories across local and national media outlets.
• Respond to press inquiries promptly and accurately.
• Oversee development and launch of promotional campaigns and media materials.
• Draft press releases, Op-Eds, media statements, and talking points.
• Coordinate press conferences, briefings, and media events.
• Produce and distribute publications, including newsletters and brochures.
• Support social media operations and the agency website.
• Manage media relations and crisis communications.
• Supervise staff within the Press and Public Information unit.
• Liaise with sister agency press offices and city leadership press teams.

Skills

Public sector knowledge

Aging field experience

Strategic thinking

Discretion and judgment

Interpersonal and written/verbal comms

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

The NYC Department for the Aging seeks a dynamic Communications Director to serve as the agency’s spokesperson and lead the Press and Public Information unit. You will secure local and national media coverage for NYC Aging programs and manage responses to press inquiries with urgency and accuracy.

You will oversee promotional campaigns, prepare press materials, coordinate events, and supervise PPI staff while collaborating with city agencies and leadership teams to advance aging-related