Office of New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh seeks a Communications Director
The Office of New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh seeks an experienced Communications Director to join our team. Senator Kavanagh chairs the Committee on Housing, Construction, and Community Development and leads an ambitious and progressive legislative and policy portfolio focused on housing, environmental sustainability, energy, and gun violence prevention, as well as various issues related to effectively representing 320,000 constituents in Lower Manhattan. The Communications Director will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy that effectively promotes the Senator’s priorities.
Primary Responsibilities:
Create compelling messaging that effectively position the Senator’s legislative priorities and achievements to constituents, media, and stakeholders;
Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, building and maintaining strong relationships with journalists across print, broadcast, and digital outlets;
Strategically leverage social media platforms and internet content to amplify the Senator’s message, increase engagement, and build connections within the district and among state and national advocates;
Write and edit high-quality content that translates complex legislative and policy matters into accessible language for diverse audiences;
Coordinate with legislative and community staff to ensure communications material accurately reflect policy positions, initiatives, and district priorities;
Accompany the Senator to significant events, capturing professional-quality photos and managing on-site media relations;
Monitor media coverage, public sentiment, and stakeholder relations to inform and refine communications approaches.
Required Qualifications:
Significant experience in communications, preferably within a government or public policy advocacy setting;
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with a very high level of attention to detail;
Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and maintain composure under pressure;
Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and media contacts;
Ability to use Microsoft and Google platforms, as well as social media, CRM tools, and other emerging digital platforms;
A willingness to take initiative, and identify and act on issues.
Preferred Qualifications:
Familiarity with New York government and/or public institutions, especially the role of elected officials’ offices;
Familiarity with the Lower Manhattan neighborhoods comprising Senate District 27;
Familiarity with one of more of the issues that comprise the Senator’s legislative portfolio.
This position is based in Lower Manhattan with potential travel to Albany as needed. The Communications Director can expect to work remotely one day per week.
To apply, candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and portfolio of relevant work that demonstrates their skills, anonymized as necessary, to sd27resumes@gmail.com. This should include, where applicable:
Writing samples (press releases, op-eds, talking points, or other materials);
Relevant photography/visual content;
Media placements.
Please do not apply through a third-party website. All applications will be kept confidential. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Salary commensurate with experience.
Benefits:
Personal, sick, and vacation time, as well as paid state holidays
State pension and deferred compensation plan
Health, life, vision, and dental insurance
Health savings account
Pre-tax transit benefit
The New York State Senate is an equal opportunity employer.