Press Secretary (Legislative Assistant II)

The Office of Chairwoman Nora Vargas at the San Diego County Board of Supervisors is expanding its communications team and is seeking an experienced Press Secretary to proactively serve as liaison with the media and elevate the Supervisor’s presence, strengthen media relationships, and strongly position the Supervisor in traditional as well as new media. The Press Secretary will be responsible for managing day to day relationships with local and national media.

WHY WORK FOR THE OFFICE OF CHAIRWOMAN NORA VARGAS?

As a member of the Communications Team in the Office of Chairwoman Vargas, you are joining a group of committed, team-oriented, and energized individuals who are part of a fast-paced operation for the first Latina, first immigrant, first binational, and first woman of color to serve as County Supervisor in the 173-year history of the County of San Diego.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Press Secretary works closely with the Sr. Director of External Affairs to execute a fast-paced and dynamic communication plan and help manage day to day relationships with local and national media.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Work with the Sr. Director of External Affairs to develop and implement strategic communication plans to promote the Chairwoman’s objectives, including identifying key messages, crafting narratives, and utilizing various communication channels to effectively reach target audiences;
• Build and maintain relationships with local and national journalists, reporters, and media outlets; this involves fielding inquiries from the media, organizing press conferences and briefings, and coordinating interviews;
• Navigate the media landscape, pitch stories, and handle inquiries from reporters professionally and diplomatically;
• Manage the flow of information during times of crisis or sensitive situations and represent the Chairwoman’s position alongside the Sr. Director of External Affairs to address public concerns and coordinate media responses;
• Draft, review, and disseminate press releases and official statements to the media as well as op-eds, newsletters, speeches, talking points, and other written materials for the Chairwoman and provide media training and coaching to ensure effective communication during interviews, press conferences, and public appearances;
• Manage and catalogue incoming media requests for the Chairwoman, notify the Sr. Director of External Affairs accordingly, and ensure accurate and timely information is provided to the public, and the media, on behalf of the Chairwoman’s Office;
• Manage logistics for town halls, press conferences, and other public-facing events, both virtual and in-person;
• Remain abreast of current legislative and non-legislative issues about which the Chairwoman may be questioned;
• In coordination with other members of the Communications Team, you will be responsible for managing social media accounts and online presence by creating and curating content, engaging with the public, and monitoring online discussions to maintain a positive image and address emerging issues.
• Work flexible schedule including long hours, nights and weekends, and performs other duties as assigned.
• Support communications interns and social media coordinator.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Strong communications skills, including writing, editing, and proofreading
• Understanding of print, broadcast, and digital media;
• Strong organizational skills, works well under pressure, manages multiple projects, and accepts performance-based feedback and direction;
• Ability to exercise discretion in the representation of the Chairwoman’s position on policy issues;
• Ability to work cooperatively and courteously with others, including members of the press;
• Existing relationships with San Diego Media

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 7+ years of communications experience, including knowledge of traditional and nontraditional media;
• Prior experience staffing a high profile elected official or executive preferred;
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, while managing several projects simultaneously and adjusting to frequently shifting immediate demands;
• Self-starter with excellent project management, time management, and organizational skills;
• Commitment to equity, reproductive, racial, social, and economic justice, and their intersections and possess good political acumen.
• Experience in any of the following design products preferred and a desire to learn more: Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva, or Adobe Suite of products.

Please click here to view the complete job description for this position.

TO APPLY:

Salary range for this position is $75,000-$90,000, compensation will be based on experience. Interested applicants must attach a resume, cover letter, 2 writing samples, as well as 2-3 professional references, to be considered. Send to Griselda.Ramirez2@sdcounty.ca.gov with “Press Secretary” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until July 25th, 2023.

Persons serving in positions in the Unclassified Service do not accrue tenure and serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. The provisions of this job announcement may be modified or revoked and do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable an individual with qualified disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.
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