CHIEF OF COMMUNICATIONS II

State of Arkansas • Little Rock, AR

135d • $103,991 - $153,907

About The Position

Join the Arkansas Department of Education where each student is recognized as an individual. Through a cultivation of world-class educators, partnering with communities, and an influx of social supports, Arkansas Department of Education provides multi-level supports that help ensure students will receive a personalized education and develop a life-long love of learning. The Chief of Communications II is a senior leadership role within a large state department/agency responsible for overseeing and directing all communication functions for the department. This position is tasked with creating and executing high-level communication strategies that ensure the department's mission, objectives, and initiatives are effectively communicated to the public, government officials, media, and other stakeholders. The Chief of Communications II plays a pivotal role in shaping the department’s public image, managing crisis communications, and coordinating complex outreach efforts.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or a related field is required.
• At least seven (7) years of professional experience in communications, public relations, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and assessment of both long-term and short-term communication strategies that support and reflect the mission, goals, and priorities of the Department of Education.
• Act as the department’s chief spokesperson, managing all media interactions and ensuring consistent, clear, and accurate messaging that strengthens the department’s public image.
• Oversee the department’s brand and reputation by ensuring alignment across all external communications, including digital, print, and media platforms.
• Manage the communications budget, strategically allocating resources across campaigns, media placements, and digital tools to maximize impact and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Provide effective leadership to a team of communications professionals, offering supervision, mentorship, and opportunities for growth and development.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials, education leaders, and policymakers to support the advancement of key initiatives and legislative priorities.
• Lead the department’s digital engagement strategy, using social media and other platforms to inform, engage, and respond to the public.
• Direct internal communications to ensure staff and other internal stakeholders are well-informed about departmental updates, initiatives, and policy changes.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets at the local, state, and national levels.
• Oversee the development and dissemination of press releases, public statements, and media events to ensure the department’s perspective is effectively represented.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership, particularly during high-profile or crisis situations, by crafting timely and appropriate communications that uphold the department’s credibility and public trust.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree