State Government Public Affairs Leader

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 104,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension

Maternity leave

Paid state holidays

Job summary

The Chief of Communications II position at the State of Arkansas Department of Human Services is a senior leadership role overseeing all communications. The role directs messaging to the public, government officials, media, and stakeholders and guides crisis communications and outreach efforts.

You will shape strategic communication plans, supervise a team, manage digital and internal communications, and collaborate with policymakers to advance priority initiatives.

Qualifications

• Experience navigating complex governmental environments.
• Experience collaborating with legislators, policymakers, community leaders, and external stakeholders.
• Experience advising senior executives on communication strategy and public messaging.
• Proven ability to build relationships with local, state, and national media outlets.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, implementation, and evaluation of communication strategies aligned with the department's goals.
• Serve as department spokesperson and represent the department in media interactions.
• Protect and enhance the department’s brand through consistent messaging across channels.
• Oversee budget and allocate resources for campaigns, media buying, and digital tools.
• Supervise and mentor a team of communication professionals.
• Collaborate with government officials to advance legislative and policy priorities.
• Guide use of digital and social media to engage the public and monitor sentiment.
• Oversee internal communications to keep staff informed about goals and news.
• Build and maintain relationships with media outlets at local, state, and national levels.
• Manage press releases, interviews, and public statements.

Skills

Experience with state government

Collaborating with legislators/publics

Advising senior leadership

Media relations & crisis comms

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or related field

Job description

The Chief of Communications II position at the State of Arkansas Department of Human Services is a senior leadership role overseeing all communications. The role directs messaging to the public, government officials, media, and stakeholders and guides crisis communications and outreach efforts.

You will shape strategic communication plans, supervise a team, manage digital and internal communications, and collaborate with policymakers to advance priority initiatives.