Description

At the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services we’re passionate about “helping people live better lives.” Every individual within DHHS makes an impact. We want to elevate, engage and empower those that choose to spend their energy making the world a little brighter.

We are searching for our next Director of Communications. Reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, the Director is responsible for promoting the mission, priorities and brand image of the Agency by communicating and coordinating accurate, helpful, timely and clear information in a variety of ways and via a variety of channels, including internal communication, public information, visual information and legislative coordination.

We recognize that our employees bring tremendous value to the State of Nebraska and that their vital work helps us fulfill our mission and obligation to the public. We support our staff by offering fantastic benefits, training and development opportunities for personal and professional growth. We run a positive, team-oriented atmosphere.

What you will receive:

• Career Development and Learning
• 156% match of first 4.8% contribution to Retirement Plan
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Generous Leave Accruals and benefits
• Opportunity to be part of a caring organization
• Flexible Schedules
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Great teammates

What you will do:

• Manage and oversee the agency’s communication and public information activities, including planning, developing, implementing and evaluating a variety of communication methods and strategies for internal and external communications such as social media, traditional media and public relations; emergency communications; DHHS website and social media pages; and production and distribution of promotional materials.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and media contact for the agency by presenting official statements to the media on behalf of DHHS; formulating a strategy for media response to highly sensitive issues, often under tight deadlines with considerable oversight and exposure; and ensuring a coordinated, accurate, positive and timely response to media, public and other inquiries.
• Partner with executive leadership to guide and coach them on best communication practices.
• Collaborate and partner with our internal executive level team members on media campaigns while providing best practices on communicating our messaging.
• Develop talking points, speeches and other written documents for the CEO and other executive leaders.
• Manage and oversee the agency’s communications efforts, including coordinating activities with DHHS staff, Governor’s Communications Office and other state agencies; researching issues, and assist with and responding to requests for information from the Legislature and others.
• Develop end-to-end communications campaign plans including messaging, script and presentation development, event logistics, executive briefs, media training and more.
• Manage and oversee the DHHS system advocate/help line, including responding to the public’s questions and concerns about agency programs and services.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, guidance and evaluation to staff within the Office of Communications (OCOM) team and ensure all work is completed in support and enhancement of the objectives and goals of the agency, divisions and programs.

Requirements

What you will bring:

• Master’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, marketing or a related field.
• Five to seven years of progressive and increasing responsibility and experience developing, planning, and managing public relations, mass media communication activities or public information programs.
• Expert-level professional judgement in navigating complex issues and adept at crisis communications.
• Experience in advocacy, including serving as the spokesperson for an organization/agency.
• Experience working in or with government agencies is preferred.
• Able to work in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.