Senior Advisor for Strategic Communications & Public Engagement ((Administrative Program Manager I))

State of Maryland; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Maryland's Developmental Disabilities Administration seeks a Senior Advisor for Strategic Communications & Public Engagement to serve as the primary architect for external and internal communications strategy, translating complex policy initiatives into accessible, transparent messaging.

The role advises the Chief of Staff and Director of External Affairs, drives integrated engagement, manages media and legislative relations, and builds trusted partnerships with participants, families,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications or a related field is required.
• Six+ years of professional experience in communications, public affairs, or strategic engagement.
• Master's degree can substitute for one year of experience; Doctorate substitutes for two years.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary architect for external and internal communications strategy.
• Advise senior leadership, including the Chief of Staff and Director of External Affairs.
• Translate complex policy initiatives into accessible messaging.
• Drive integrated engagement strategies and manage media and legislative relations.

Skills

Strategic communications

Stakeholder engagement

Media relations

Public policy / government affairs

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, public administration, public policy, marketing, English, social sciences, or related field

Master's degree substitute for 1 year of general experience; Doctorate substitutes for 2 years

Job description

GRADE

19

LOCATION OF POSITION

MDH Developmental Disabilities Administration, Baltimore MD

Main Purpose of Job

The Senior Advisor for Strategic Communications & Public Engagement serves as the primary architect for the Developmental Disabilities Administration’s (DDA) external and internal communications strategy. This role acts as a high-level advisor to the Chief of Staff and Director of External Affairs, and executive leadership, translating complex policy initiatives into accessible, transparent messaging. The position is responsible for driving integrated engagement strategies, managing media and legislative relations, and building trusted, long-term partnerships with participants, families, providers, and community stakeholders to advance the DDA’s mission and strategic priorities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Qualified candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in communications, journalism, public relations, public administration, public policy, marketing, English, social sciences, or a related field. Qualified candidates must also possess six or more years of professional experience in communications, public affairs, or strategic engagement.

Master's degree from an accredited college or university will substitute for one year of general experience and a Doctorate will substitute for two years of general experience. Additional experience will substitute on a year-for-year basis for the college degree.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

The desired candidate should be an experienced communications and public affairs professional with demonstrated expertise in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, public policy, media relations, and government affairs. The successful candidate should also have a proven record of advising senior leadership, developing integrated communications strategies, managing complex or sensitive issues, and building trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, sound political and organizational judgment, and the ability to translate complex policies into clear, accessible messages are essential. Experience engaging individuals with developmental disabilities, families, providers, advocacy organizations, elected officials, and government partners is highly desirable. Knowledge of developmental disabilities, health and human services, Medicaid, or other complex public-sector programs, as well as experience with Maryland State government and legislative processes, is strongly preferred. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accessibility, equity, person-centered engagement, public trust, and continuous improvement.

SELECTION PROCESS

This is a Management Service position and serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority. A resume must be uploaded to the application.

Applicants who meet the minimum (and selective) qualifications will be included in further evaluation. The evaluation may be a rating of your application based on your education, training and experience as they relate to the requirements of the position. Therefore, it is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all related education, experience, dates and hours of work. Clearly indicate your college degree and major on your application, if applicable. For education obtained outside the U.S., any job offer will be contingent on the candidate providing an evaluation for equivalency by a foreign credential evaluation service prior to starting employment (and may be requested prior to interview).

Complete applications must be submitted by the closing date. Information submitted after this date will not be added.

Incorrect application forms will not be accepted.

Candidates may remain on the certified eligible list for a period of at least one year. The resulting certified eligible list for this recruitment may be used for similar positions in this or other State agencies.

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling: 410-767-1251 or MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.