Job Summary
Providence, Rhode Island has its most diverse and progressive council in the city's history. Under the leadership of Council President Rachel Miller—the city's first LGBTQ+ and democratic socialist Council president—the council is working to pass transformative housing and climate policy. The Communications Director is a key member of the Providence City Council leadership team, responsible for managing the Council’s communications strategy across multiple platforms. This role involves media relations, digital communications, policy messaging, event promotion, and staff supervision. The Communications Director will ensure effective communication of the Council’s initiatives and policies to the public and stakeholders, supporting all 15 councilors.
Duties & Responsibilities
include but are not limited to the following :
Develop and maintain relationships with press and media contacts.
Organize press conferences and prepare press releases, media advisories, and other communications materials.
Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews and public appearances with council members.
Manage the Council’s email communications and social media platforms.
Develop and implement digital strategies to enhance engagement and public awareness.
Monitor social media channels and respond to public inquiries.
Work with councilors and council staff to source content.
Assist in crafting compelling and effective messaging on progressive policies, with a particular focus on transformative housing policy.
Collaborate with council members to develop and refine key messages and talking points.
Coordinate and promote events for all 15 councilors, ensuring effective communication and public engagement.
Manage logistics and staffing for events, including promotion and on-site coordination, in collaboration with the events coordinator, schedulers, and constituent services team.
Supervise the communications staff, currently consisting of a communications coordinator, with potential to grow.
Recruit and supervise interns as desired.
Provide guidance, mentorship, and performance evaluations for communications staff.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of education.
Proven experience in media relations, digital communications, and messaging development.
Deep commitment to progressive values and transformative policy change.
Experience with social media management and digital strategy.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment.
Supervisory experience is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Must be able to perform all essential functions of the job as defined.
Willingness to work nights and weekends when necessary.