Communications Director

Job Summary :

The Arizona Department of Administration, Director's Office, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Communications Director.

This key leadership role is responsible for overseeing internal and external communications, media relations, public records management, video production, and legislative affairs for the agency.

The Communications Director will also coordinate statewide communication efforts with the Governor's Office, lead the agency's social media strategy, and serve as the primary media contact.

As a member of the Executive Team, the Communications Director will provide strategic insight and serve as a vital communication resource.

The successful candidate will manage a talented communications team and collaborate closely with other state communications directors to achieve the agency's goals.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, and commissions, many State employees participate in the State’s Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces.

All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

Job Duties :

• Develops proactive internal and external communication strategies, highlighting the work of the agency’s eight distinct divisions as well as addressing crisis communications
• Edits and approves all communications that are sent out from all agency divisions
• Leads the day-to-day operations of the Communications and Legislative Affairs Team
• Responsible for providing training, mentoring, conducting performance evaluations, prioritization of tasks and monitoring of work progress are key responsibilities to ensure timely completion of assignments
• Handles records retention for the agency in coordination with the legal team, oversees fulfillment of public records requests for ADOA and issues half-staff notifications for the state in coordination with the Governor’s Office

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs) :

Knowledge of :

• Communication strategies
• Public relations
• Government branches, roles and the legislative process
• Principles and practices of management and supervision
• Preservation and protection of confidential information
• Research techniques
• Business writing, computer software programs such as Google Workspace and other graphics and or presentation software

Skills in :

• Directing media, communications and public relations functions in a governmental environment
• Writing effective media releases with attention to detail
• Managing strategic planning for media relations efforts
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships
• Supervising and directing media relations and legislative affairs staff
• Handling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines
• Time management

Ability to :

• Respond and serve as the primary spokesperson for media inquires
• Elevate the profile and perception of the organization and its management in the eyes of the media, the public, legislators, and other stakeholders
• Serve as a member of the executive management team for the agency, advising agency leadership and other team members on communications, public information and media-related issues
• Develop and approve media releases
• Serve successfully as a spokesperson and media contact representing the State of Arizona and the agency and will be familiar with rapid response, crisis media and social media strategies
• Provide communications counsel to senior management

Selective Preference(s) :

• Eight years of progressive leadership experience in communications, media relations, or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
• Demonstrated expertise in managing crises and handling sensitive issues effectively
• Proven ability to develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies
• Familiarity with the public sector or governmental communications is a plus

Pre-Employment Requirements :

Background and reference check, including a criminal records verification

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply :

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits :

The Arizona Department of Administration offers a comprehensive benefits package to include :

• Sick leave
• Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster / adopted child (pilot program)
• Health and dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
• Optional employee benefits include short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance

By providing the option of a full-time or part-time remote work schedule, employees enjoy improved work / life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and are more productive.

Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement or right. An agency may terminate a remote work agreement at its discretion.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program . For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our

Retirement :

You will be required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) upon your 27th week of employment, subject to waiting period.

On or shortly after, your first day of employment you will be provided with enrollment instructions and effective date