JOB LISTING

Classification: PRESS SECRETARY

Work Location: Cleveland City Hall

601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 227,

40+ hours/week, hours vary (on-call nights and weekends)

Classification Description:

As a member of the Mayor’s Cabinet, the Press Secretary will report to the Chief of Communications and is

responsible for crafting and implementing media strategy for the Mayor of the City of Cleveland.

Essential Job Functions:

•  Promote public understanding of Mayor Jackson, his initiatives and goals
• Working with the Chief of Communications, identify media relations challenges and opportunities,
• develop strategies to address both and monitor results
• Develop and implement a proactive media strategy, incorporating traditional media and new media at the local, regional and national levels
• Develop and maintain relationships with local, regional and national media
• Field media inquiries and respond promptly to requests for information, interviews, etc.
• Proactively pitch stories to the media
• Write, edit, proofread and distribute news releases and advisories according to AP Stylebook standards
• Plan, coordinate and direct the Mayor’s media events: news conferences, interviews, video
• tapings, TV 20 appearances, pen and paper sessions, etc., including drafting remarks for the Mayor and preparing press kits as necessary
• Leverage social media to increase effectiveness of media efforts, reach broader
• audiences, and provide a platform for first source information
• Monitor media coverage for accuracy, impact and trending stories
• Keeps abreast of local events in order to advise on the necessity, method and timing of media
• events and potential public relations issues
• Working with the Law Department, monitor the media’s public records requests and coordinate the
• response for Mayor’s Office records
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Executive staff, members of the community and citizen groups
• Assist Cabinet Members with interviews, media events and special assignments
• Attend weekly Cabinet Meetings and Cleveland City Council meetings
• Handle confidential information as appropriate
• Supervise Deputy Press Secretary and Press Assistant
• Other duties as assigned

Characteristics Required:

• Exceptional oral and written communications skills
• Communicate effectively in a variety of situations with diverse audiences
• Work well under pressure, manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines
• Show discretion and the ability to think critically
• Accepts constructive criticism and direction
• Demonstrate initiative, persistence and a positive attitude
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail required
• Have the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Be comfortable with long hours, and being on-call nights and weekends

Minimum Training and Experience Required to Perform Essential Job Functions:

• Minimum of 6 years of related experience (i.e., media relations, public affairs, public relations, journalism)
• 4-year college degree in journalism, communications, public relations or related field
• Demonstrated experience working with members of the media, writing news-related and/or promotional material
• Demonstrated experience managing interviews, researching topics and presenting information
• Proven track record using social media
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Outlook

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of City of Cleveland and municipal government operations
• Knowledge of and experience working with Cleveland media
• Knowledge of marketing and public relations strategies
• Familiarity with AP Stylebook
• Two years supervisory experience
• Event planning experience

Please mention you learned of this employment opportunity on the Careers In Government website.

Note:

As an employee in the Office of the Mayor, this person will be considered an “essential” employee in the event of an emergency where Mayor Jackson or his staff is required to perform duties on behalf of the City of Cleveland.

All interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to Rachon Long, Assistant Director of

Human Resources, 601 Lakeside Avenue Room 121, Cleveland, OH 44114, or email

rlong@city.cleveland.oh.us.