Director of Communication & Legislative Affairs

State of Vermont•Waterbury, CT

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Communications & Legislative Affairs for the Department of Corrections reports to and works closely with the Executive Director, Policy and Strategic Initiatives. The position manages the DOC's internal and external communications and has robust involvement in legislative efforts and initiatives. Collaboration is central to this role, requiring engagement and relation management with staff, legislators, subject matter experts, the media, community partners and service providers to further the Department's strategic mission, vision and goals.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree AND five (5) years or more of experience at a professional level in the field of human services, public administration, public health, public policy, governmental relations, journalism, or public relations.
Master's degree AND three (3) years or more of experience at a professional level in the field of human services, public administration, public health, public policy, governmental relations, journalism, or public relations.
Previous institutional employers will be contacted and required to provide information regarding substantiated incidences of sexual abuse or resignation during a pending investigation of an allegation of sexual abuse.
Candidates who have any felony conviction record or who, within the past five (5) years, have been placed under supervision or sanctioned for a misdemeanor conviction must receive a waiver from the Commissioner of Corrections in order to be considered for employment.

Responsibilities

Manage public inquiries and respond to legislative or media inquiries, balancing transparency with security.
Draft and disseminate press releases and other materials for the media and pitch news stories highlighting DOC's innovations and outcomes.
Prepare staff for presentations, interviews, and other public engagements as requested.
Participate in weekly Agency of Human Services (AHS) communications meetings and ensure alignment with AHS communications efforts.
Coordinate facility visits and events with media, elected officials, and others.
Manage internal and external digital content, administrating the DOC public website and intranet.
Draft and submit weekly reports to the Governor and draft staff communications as needed.
Ensure DOC materials meet accessibility standards.
Collaborate with the Research and Data Unit to develop impactful visualizations of important information.
Review Department documents as requested.
Attend relevant hearings in the statehouse, track key legislation, coordinate scheduling and strategy for department testimony.
Draft testimony and prep DOC staff to testify as needed.
Write and disseminate daily legislative reports and submit to DOC, AHS, and Governor's Office leadership.
Prepare legislative reports and weekly legislative debriefs for all department staff.
Assist in the preparation of legislative proposals.
Facilitate communications and foster relationships with state elected officials and federal offices.
Coordinate DOC marketing projects.
Serve as liaison for marketing contract(s).
Work with vendor to develop and coordinate marketing materials.
Assist with other strategic initiatives as assigned.