Head of Communications&PR

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt At-Will

The Department of Human Services (DoHS) seeks a visionary Director of Communications to join our Executive Team. In this role, public relations, complex policy, and executive strategy converge. As the chief communications expert, you will oversee a team of specialists and public information officers while managing high-stakes agency messaging.

Partner directly with the Governor’s Office, Secretary of Human Services, Legislature, and key stakeholders to align public engagement with strategic goals.

Serve as the primary architect for rapid-response planning and high-profile risk mitigation. Author executive statements and direct on-site press logistics for legislative sessions, hearings, and briefings.

Campaigns & Digital Ecosystems: Oversee multi-channel strategies (web, social, traditional press) and execute large-scale public education campaigns.

Compliance: Ensure all communications meet accessibility standards (ADA, plain language), multi-language translation protocols, and public disclosure laws.

On-Site Operational Leadership: Provide hands-on direction during mandatory, high-priority events, including agency press conferences, State Legislative sessions, and emergency operations.

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or a related field.

Public Sector PR & Media: Extensive experience in strategic communications, public relations, and public media management within complex organizational or public sector environments.

Crisis Management: Proven track record in rapid-response planning and high-profile risk mitigation.

Legislative & Policy Fluency: skilled at translating complex policy into accessible public narratives.

Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Proven success supervising communications staff and managing relationships with government officials, news media, and community partners under tight deadlines.

Tools & Compliance: Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and digital content management tools. Emergency Operations: Experience handling public information oversight during active emergency operations and utilizing media data to pivot strategies.

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.

Retirement Planning: Secure state retirement plan with employer contributions.

Generous paid leave (vacation/sick time) and paid state holidays.

At DoHS, your work directly impacts citizens statewide.