Marketing and Communications Director

the South Dakota State Government • Rapid City, SD

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Marketing and Communications Director leads statewide marketing, communications, and public relations efforts for the Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED). This strategic leadership role oversees marketing strategy, executive communications, and a team focused on showcasing South Dakota's business climate and advancing economic development opportunities. Working closely with GOED leadership, the Governor's Office, and external partners, the Director translates complex issues and statewide priorities into clear, compelling messaging that strengthens the state's economic development efforts.

The Director oversees agency marketing strategy, statewide campaigns, branding, digital platforms, content development, and performance evaluation; develops executive messaging and coordinates media relations and sensitive communications; leads a multidisciplinary communications team; oversees communications for events, conferences, and trade shows; and manages marketing budgets, contracts, vendors, and resource allocation. The position also supports agency planning, reporting, and legislative preparation.

The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, with a stated salary range of $74,499.84 to $93,103.92 annually, depending on qualifications. Work locations are Rapid City, Sioux Falls, or Pierre, South Dakota. The position is exempt from the Civil Service Act and requires a background investigation. Applicants must apply online and attach a resume; emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted. The State does not sponsor work visas. Hired candidates must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9; the State uses E-Verify.

Requirements

• Excellent writing and editing skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly and efficiently.
• Strong understanding of marketing, public relations, digital communications, and brand management.
• Ability to understand broader government priorities and the context surrounding executive communications.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills.
• Ability to think strategically, exercise sound judgment, and manage competing priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with government officials, business leaders, media, and community partners.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines, work independently, and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Attach a resume and apply online; emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
• Successful applicants must undergo a background investigation.
• Hired applicants must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9; employment eligibility is verified using E-Verify.
• The State does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees.

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations, business, or a related field, with progressively responsible marketing or communications experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities, is preferred; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Experience in executive communications, economic development, or government communications is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead agency marketing strategy, statewide campaigns, branding, digital platforms, content development, and performance evaluation.
• Develop executive messaging, speeches, press releases, and briefing materials; coordinate media relations, major announcements, and sensitive communications.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary communications team, manage priorities and project delivery, and coordinate initiatives across the agency and with external partners.
• Oversee communications for events, conferences, and trade shows.
• Partner with businesses, economic development organizations, and state agencies to support business recruitment, retention, and expansion.
• Oversee marketing budgets, contracts, vendors, and resource allocation.
• Support agency planning, reporting, and legislative preparation.

Benefits

• 6% fully matched retirement plan, including long-term disability and family survivor benefits.
• $25,000 paid life insurance.
• Flexible work schedules and generous leave policies to support work/life balance.
• $0 premium employee health insurance option.
• Eleven paid holidays.
• Vacation and sick leave accrual.
• Dental, vision, and other insurance options.
• Retirement benefits; the position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.
• Stable industry sector.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director