STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE BRANCH JOBS

Director of Communications 2

Recruitment #200909-0516MP-001

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Introduction

Are you a strong, hands-on team leader who is keenly aware of the importance of storytelling and public engagement? Do complex communications challenges energize you? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you.

The State of Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is seeking dynamic candidates for Director of Communications 2 to develop, manage, and implement our overall communications strategy. 

Who We Are

As one of the state’s largest agencies, we employ approximately 3,000 individuals statewide in five distinct Bureaus. The mission of CTDOT is to provide a safe and efficient multimodal transportation network that improves the quality of life and promotes economic vitality for the State and the region. We have a significant transportation infrastructure system that is essential to maintaining mobility for Connecticut residents and businesses and supporting economic and community development.

The Role

We are seeking a proven communications leader to identify and implement strategies for increasing awareness and understanding of the Department’s mission, initiatives and activities with both external and internal audiences. This position is part of the Department’s senior management team and reports directly to executive leadership. The ideal candidate is an accomplished communications professional with a willingness to introduce fresh perspectives to the communications operations, team and Department. We need your superior skills in team management, oral and written communications, social media proficiency, and strategic communications experience to fulfill this role.
 
As Director of Communications, you will be responsible for motivating and managing a small Communications team with experience in media relations, visual media, and customer service. Our Office of Communications is tasked with providing and coordinating timely and accurate information to the public about transportation issues, construction projects, public transit operations, traffic and roadway conditions, emergency operations, special initiatives and achievements through multiple communications channels. Our office works closely with cross functional teams and staff to synthesize complex information and pull insights from data to share with a wide range of audiences. In addition to working with the media, the Office fields public inquiries and concerns. Among other things, we draft/design/disseminate content for internal and external purposes, coordinate events, and most recently support virtual public engagement and social media.

In addition to providing a strategic vision for communications and team direction to the Office of Communications, the position requires a hands-on approach to day-to-day communications activities, such as drafting and editing, engaging reporters and staffing events.
 
In this key role you will:

  • Oversee and manage all facets of internal and external communications;
  • Help us adapt to best practices and emerging trends in communications;
  • Work with Bureaus and senior leadership in identifying communication strategies that can support short-term and long-term operational goals and projects; and,
  • Play an integral role in shaping perceptions and influencing public awareness of our long-term vision, strategy, and programs for serving the mobility needs of Connecticut’s residents and businesses while supporting economic growth, strong communities, and a healthy sustainable environment.
If you are ready to re-imagine the role communications and engagement should play in better connecting our work with the people we serve, this is a great opportunity for you!

We offer our employees a variety of competitive benefits including healthcare, retirement, and paid time off.

Selection Plan

In order to be considered for this job opening, you must meet the Minimum Qualifications and Preferred Qualifications as listed on the job opening. You must specify your qualifications on your application.       

Applicants must include a resume within the "Resume Tab" of their application. Ensure that your application is complete before submitting it. Applicants will be unable to make revisions once their application is submitted into the JobAps system.                                                                                                                                            
Interviews will be limited to candidates whose experience and training most closely meet the requirements of the position. 

Should you have questions pertaining to this recruitment, please direct them to Olivia Roman at olivia.roman@ct.gov and reference the Recruitment Number.

PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)

In a large state agency, this class is accountable for managing agency communications and public relations programs.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

  • Directs staff and operations of communications unit; 
  • Coordinates, plans and manages communications, public relations, marketing, advertising and public information activities; 
  • Formulates program strategies, goals and objectives to align with agency mission; 
  • Develops and implements communications and related policies and procedures; 
  • Interprets and administers laws pertaining to public information; 
  • Serves as advisor to Commissioner on communications, public relations, public information, advertising and promoting agency services; 
  • Provides expertise to agency staff in handling media and in information delivery and response; 
  • Oversees or directly prepares and distributes informational materials, public relations and marketing materials using a variety of media; 
  • Prepares press releases; 
  • Conducts research and maintains statistics on agency projects and programs; 
  • Prepares or assists in preparation of communications budget; 
  • Develops and maintains contacts with individuals both within and outside of unit who might impact on program activities; 
  • Serves as communications liaison officer to communities, organizations, and general public impacted by agency policies and services; 
  • Oversees agency response to Freedom of Information requests and ensures adherence to applicable statutes regarding disclosure; 
  • Serves as agency spokesperson to media, regularly communicating in areas of high profile or sensitivity; 
  • May oversee agency records retention program; and,
  • Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

Considerable knowledge of communication methods and procedures; considerable knowledge of public relations principles and practices; knowledge of marketing principles and practices; knowledge of and ability to apply management principles and techniques; knowledge of relevant state and federal laws, statutes and regulations; knowledge of relevant agency policies and procedures; considerable interpersonal skills; considerable oral and written communication skills.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE

Nine (9) years of professional experience in communications, public information, public relations, or journalism.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED

1. College training may be substituted for the General Experience on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equalling one-half (1/2) year of experience to a maximum of four (4) years for a Bachelor's degree.
2. A Master's degree in communications, public relations, journalism or a closely related field may be substituted for one (1) additional year of the General Experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Managerial experience leading, coaching and developing teams
  • Experience creating and implementing multi-faceted communications strategies and comprehensive communication plans including but not limited to campaign launches, brand initiatives, press events, and traction in news outlets and social media;
  • Orientation to detail for copy editing and storytelling, design and creative concepts;
  • Professional work experience in social media, digital and multi-media communications, and website strategies;
  • Commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion;
  • Experience in developing internal communications that supports employee engagement and change management initiatives;
  • Knowledge of quality customer service principles;
  • Experience coordinating and collaborating with multiple partners inside and outside of an organization;
  • Experience establishing relationships with communications stakeholders;
  • Experience with improving processes to align goals with outcomes; and,
  • Experience with government and/or a transportation-related field.

Conclusion

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.





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