A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. 

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What We Offer:

  Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 

  Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 

  Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.

  Opportunities in Tech - Don’t wait for the future, shape it.

  Benefits - We care about your well being.

Agency Description

The mission of the Mayor’s Office of Communications is to develop and implement communications strategies in partnership with all City departments to increase access to City services, foster a culture of open communication, and promote key Administration initiatives. The Mayor’s Office of Communications oversees all traditional press and digital media outreach for the Administration. The office creates and implements comprehensive communications strategies to inform Philadelphians about their government, expands access to information about City services, and provides residents with critical information in times of emergency or breaking news. The Communications team facilitates media access to the Mayor and members of the administration and coordinates communications staff across departments. The Digital team oversees a strategy to engage residents online and make information about City services more easily accessible.

The primary role of the Deputy Communications Director is to provide communications support and expertise to a portfolio of City departments and initiatives. Communications support includes, but is not limited to: media relations, social media strategy, marketing, web content development, community engagement, and video production.

Essential Functions

• Work with City staff to effectively execute all matters of communications on behalf of departments and initiatives within a designated portfolio
• Secure positive press coverage of programs and initiatives within the portfolio
• Ensure major announcements and events have a comprehensive communications plan
• Support media relations, including responding to reporters, crafting statements, and drafting press releases on behalf of departments  
• Support the selection of and management of external communications contracts with vendors, as needed
• Assist staff in departments in setting measurable digital goals and developing high quality digital content
• Provide communications support for leadership in the managing director’s office

Education and Experience

• 5-7 years paid experience in communications, journalism, public affairs, or a related field
• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Experience managing complex organizational systems
• Experience with both digital and traditional communications
• Experience in media relations and building relationships with local members of the press
• Experience managing advertising and marketing campaigns
• Fluency in other languages is not a requirement, but a plus

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to handle simultaneous priority projects and meet established deadlines
• Ability to exercise sound and independent judgment within general policy guidelines
• Ability to work well with different team members and manage lateral reporting relationships
• Ability to effectively and succinctly communicate complex concepts
• Strong written, oral, and visual communication skills
• Ability to anticipate public reaction and think strategically
• Experience crafting messaging and communications campaigns
• Must be able to work extended hours on an as-needed basis
• Familiarity with, and understanding of, City of Philadelphia municipal operations and departments desired
• Strong working knowledge of WordPress and social media platforms

Please submit a cover letter and resume with your application. Applications without all documents will not be considered.

Did you know?

• We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer
• Employees are eligible for a 25% tuition discount program (and sometimes spouses and dependents as well) in partnership with area colleges and universities
• We offer comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available 

Successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to [email protected]. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx

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