Director of Public Relations Job at Minnesota Lottery in Roseville

Overview The Minnesota Lottery is seeking a visionary, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as its Director of Public Affairs. This executive-level position oversees the Lottery’s Public Affairs Department, driving initiatives in public relations, social responsibility, and legislative engagement. The Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the Lottery’s brand, reputation, and relationships with stakeholders across Minnesota.

Key Responsibilities Develop and implement a proactive public affairs strategy that strengthens the Lottery’s brand and reputation among key audiences, including the general public, players, retailers, legislators, and beneficiary organizations.

Collaborate with the executive leadership team to align communications with organizational goals, enhance employee engagement, and support the long-term success of the Lottery.

Lead internal and external communications efforts, including media relations, crisis communications, and community engagement.

Serve as the Lottery’s primary spokesperson during public events, legislative hearings, and media inquiries.

Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, community leaders, advocacy groups, and government partners.

Develop and execute legislative strategies to support the Lottery’s mission and operations.

Cultivate strategic alliances with the Governor’s Office, key legislators, committee chairs, and organizations such as the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of public affairs professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

Oversee departmental planning, budgeting, and performance metrics to ensure effective resource management and measurable outcomes.

Partner with the Sales and Marketing Department to advance brand initiatives, product launches, and promotional campaigns.

Direct the development of media kits, press releases, and earned media strategies that elevate the Lottery’s visibility and credibility.

Minimum Qualifications Four (4) years of advanced managerial experience or five (5) years of supervisory experience in the strategic planning, implementation, and administration of an organization’s communications program that includes oversight and expertise in several communication areas.

Note : Bachelor's degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience; Master’s degree substitutes for eighteen (18) months of experience; PhD substitutes for twenty-four (24) months of experience.

Candidates who meet the above education / experience will be further evaluated on the following during the interview :

Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholder groups

Strong public speaking and writing abilities

Deep knowledge of political processes or experience in a political environment

Proven expertise in media relations, interviewing, and communications strategy

Familiarity with social media platforms and digital engagement tools

Demonstrated creativity and problem-solving skills in complex scenarios

Excellent organizational and time management abilities

Ability to manage multiple projects and relationships in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, with flexibility and adaptability

Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field

Extensive experience developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies and managing media relationships

Experience working in the public sector or gaming industry

Knowledge of state policies, legislative and gambling laws, and human resources practices

Strong understanding of Minnesota’s legislative process, including key stakeholders, procedures, and state government dynamics

Familiarity with Minnesota state government operations, including administrative policies and procedures

Additional Requirements This position requires successful completion of the following : a criminal background check and fingerprint check at the time of job offer for all prospective new employees. The Minnesota Lottery cannot hire any person who has been convicted of a felony or a crime involving fraud or misrepresentation within five years of employment or who has ever been convicted of a gambling-related offense. The Minnesota State Lottery will perform additional background checks including Employment Reference Checks (includes review of personnel file for current and former State of Minnesota employees), SEMA4 Records Check, and Driver's License Records Verification.

How To Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. For questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For more information about the application process, visit http : / / www.mn.gov / careers.

Veteran considerations and Connect 700 Program instructions are provided within the posting as applicable.

About The Minnesota Lottery Playing Our Part : Since 1990, the lottery has generated more than $4 billion for programs that positively impact Minnesotans. Lottery dollars support programs in education, public safety, health and human services, environment, and more. Visit www.mnlottery.com for details.

Benefits As an employee, you’ll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits. Your benefits may include paid vacation and sick leave, 12 paid holidays, health / dental / vision plans, retirement pension, life insurance, disability coverage, tax-free accounts, and professional development opportunities.

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