Communications Director

City of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

12d • $75,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The Communications Director is the Councilmember’s chief strategic communicator and narrative architect. This role designs and executes an integrated communications strategy that: * Amplifies the Councilmember’s legislative and policy work, * Deepens engagement with residents and stakeholders, and * Positions the Councilmember as a credible, evidence-driven voice on key issues. This is not an entry-level role. The ideal candidate is a highly motivated, self-directed communicator who thrives in a fast-moving, high-visibility environment and is comfortable working at the pace and complexity of both public and private sectors. The Communications Director works closely with legislative, outreach, and operations staff—and external partners—to ensure that messaging is consistent, strategic, and aligned with the Councilmember’s values and priorities.

Requirements

• Exceptional writer and editor with a demonstrated ability to produce clear, concise, persuasive content across formats: speeches, op-eds, press releases, talking points, newsletters, and social posts.
• Strategic storyteller who can connect data to human stories and move audiences to understanding and action.
• Media-savvy operator with experience pitching and working directly with reporters and editors.
• Digitally fluent in social media and digital communications, including platform best practices and basic analytics.
• Sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive issues, confidential information, and political dynamics.
• Equity and cultural competency , with demonstrated comfort working alongside diverse communities across Philadelphia.
• Strong project and time management skills ; able to manage multiple deadlines and pivot quickly.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• At least 2–4 years of relevant communications experience in government, campaigns, media, public affairs, corporate communications, or related fields.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and familiarity with content management and social media tools.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with the Philadelphia media market—or a comparable urban environment—is a strong plus.
• Experience operating in high-visibility, high-stakes settings (elected office, major nonprofit, corporate, or advocacy environments) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a cohesive communications strategy tied to the Councilmember’s policy agenda and committee work.
• Translate complex legislation and data into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
• Advise the Councilmember and senior staff on message development, timing, and risk/opportunity.
• Set goals and metrics for communications outputs and outcomes, track and report performance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media.
• Proactively pitch stories, op-eds, and commentary that elevate the Councilmember’s work.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and statements.
• Prepare the Councilmember for interviews, including talking points, briefing memos, and Q&A.
• Oversee the voice, content, and cadence of all digital channels (social media, email, website, newsletters).
• Manage the Councilmember’s social media presence with an authentic, values-aligned voice.
• Plan and execute data-informed digital campaigns to reach key constituencies.
• Ensure accessibility and platform-appropriate content (graphics, video, and written).
• Design and support press events, public events, and town halls that highlight the Councilmember’s priorities.
• Coordinate with legislative and outreach teams to align messaging and ensure strong turnout and follow-through.
• Monitor media, social media, and public sentiment; identify and correct misinformation.
• Lead communications during high-profile issues or crises, balancing transparency and risk management.
• Work closely with policy staff to elevate committee work, hearings, and legislative milestones.
• Partner with the outreach team to support neighborhood engagement, community partnerships, and coalition-building.
• Coordinate communications on joint initiatives with City agencies, advocacy organizations, and other Council offices.

Benefits

• City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
• The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• 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
• As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships.
• Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees