DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF, COMMUNICATIONS - OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT (SHAKMAN EXEMPT)

Cook County • Chicago, IL

95d

About The Position

The Cook County Office of the President is seeking a Deputy Chief of Staff - Communications. This senior leadership role oversees all communication and public affairs operations for the County and is responsible for setting strategy, shaping policies and procedures, and coordinating timely, accurate responses to media inquiries. The role ensures clear, consistent, and impactful messaging across newsletters, press releases, speeches, and public statements. Acting as a key spokesperson, this role promotes the County’s priorities and achievements, manages staff, and builds strong relationships with the media and community. As part of the executive team, the Deputy Chief of Staff contributes to the evaluation of strategic initiatives, communication strategies, and policy proposals, ensuring transparency and public trust.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher.
• Five (5) years in communications, public relations, or directly related experience or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s Degree or a Juris Doctorate (JD).
• Eight (8) years communications or public relations experience.
• Six (6) years of previous management experience.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates communication and public affair efforts including providing responses to media inquiry, press releases, community outreach and speaking engagements.
• Leads in the development of public service announcements and community relations efforts.
• Leads research efforts and the development and implementation of policies regarding the marketing and communication of the County’s programs.
• Represents designated leadership as directed and community group events.
• Directs and supervises staff working in and on communication and public affairs efforts.
• Consults with bureaus/departments in developing and implementing long and short-range plans designed to communicate County programs and improvements.
• Oversees the drafting of speeches, public service announcements, brochures, and press releases.
• Represents senior leadership before the media and coordinating media access to County officials.
• Develops strategies for public dissemination of County information and programs regarding bureau/department directives.

Benefits

• Top Tier Medical Benefits: Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 7 Additional voluntary benefit plans.
• Flexible Teleworking Options.
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 10 vacation days annually; Up to 4 personal days annually; and Paid sick leave).
• Pension Plan.
• Financial Support Programs and Resources: Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend.
• Health/Wellness Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees