Director of Communications

Description

Join our dedicated team at the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), as we actively seek a dynamic individual to fill the pivotal role of Director of Communications.

As part of the Senior Team, the Director will report directly to the Chief of Staff and will play a key role in developing and implementing a communications strategy aimed at coordinating the Department’s interactions with both internal and external constituencies and stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will collaborate with EOHHS Communications to streamline communications with the press, oversee a comprehensive communications portfolio, including publications and web-based communications and expand outreach and educational programs to consumers, stakeholders, and the general public.

They will supervise the work of the Communications Coordinator.

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact, we warmly invite you to join our team and contribute to our shared success at DDS.

Take action now to seize this opportunity!

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all-inclusive) :

• Develop communications strategies to promote a positive understanding of DDS services, programs, and initiatives.
• Act as a resource to staff to assist in crafting messages effective for agency consumers.
• Develop, write, and edit speeches, presentations, testimony, letters, etc., for Commissioner and Senior Staff.
• Interact with the media alongside EOHHS Communications to ensure disability-related topics accurately reflect the Department’s views and contact media outlets on topics of particular interest to the Department’s mission.
• Work with various managers and program staff to gather information and confirm facts, ensuring important disability information is conveyed to the citizens of the Commonwealth clearly and timely.
• Develop, coordinate, and oversee consumer-led public education and community outreach programs and initiatives that engage agency consumers and other constituents, in collaboration with the Chief of Staff and Senior Staff.
• Supervise the Communication coordinator.
• Develop, review, and / or prepare various agency publications such as newsletters, informational brochures, annual reports, correspondence, Web content, and other public information and education materials.
• Develop, plan, and coordinate DDS events, conferences, and statewide meetings.
• Fulfill any additional duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Five (5) years of experience working with consumers and advocates around communications and public education.
• Possess a mastery of clear, creative, and concise writing, adept at articulating complex issues and programs in a manner accessible to both the media and the general public.
• Demonstrated capability to handle crisis and critical incident communications with composure and efficacy.
• Deep understanding of and commitment to the field of disability services and its role in enhancing independence and community inclusion.
• Proven senior-level experience in media operations, encompassing knowledge of print and broadcast outlets' operations, information preferences, and communication methods.
• Extensive expertise in managing large public sector operations, particularly in regulatory principles and activities, including compliance with Massachusetts laws, rules, and regulations.
• Skilled in effectively prioritizing and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in developing and implementing general communications strategies within health and human service delivery systems.
• Adept at building coalitions and fostering consensus among diverse constituencies and interests.
• Exhibit proven capability in staff supervision, ensuring effective team management and performance.

To Apply : Please upload a cover letter and resume for the Communications Director requisition.

About the Department of Developmental Services :

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members.

DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports.

The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.