Press Secretary (Executive Assistant 1) - #251117-3501EX-001

State of Connecticut•Hartford, CT

42d•Hybrid

About The Position

The State of Connecticut, Secretary of the State (SOTS) is seeking a skilled, mission-driven communicator to serve as Press Secretary (Executive Assistant 1). This role leads media outreach, shapes messaging, and supports communication across all divisions, including Elections and Business Services. The ideal candidate writes with the clarity of a journalist, thinks with the strategy of a communications professional, and thrives in a fast-paced environment where good judgment, accuracy, and creativity matter. Secretary Stephanie Thomas is committed to strengthening Connecticut by ensuring the public can trust, access, and understand the services her office provides. Her priorities include safeguarding elections, supporting businesses, and empowering residents to navigate government and advocate for themselves. She is focused on removing barriers to participation and making sure communities have the information they need. The Press Secretary plays a vital role in advancing these priorities and communicating the impact of the office's work statewide. The Press Secretary is the office's media lead and primary storyteller. Working closely with the Communications Director, the Press Secretary helps execute a comprehensive communications strategy that elevates the work of the Secretary and the agency. Core responsibilities include managing day-to-day media relations, building relationships with reporters, drafting high-quality written materials, preparing the Secretary for media interactions, and supporting communications needs across Elections, Business Services, and other divisions. As part of the Executive Team, you'll join a collaborative, high-performing group where the pace is quick, expectations are high, and the work truly matters.

Requirements

You can quickly distill complex information, including proposed legislation and election procedures, into clear, accurate, and accessible language for the public, policymakers, and the media.
You are a strong writer and communicator with excellent interpersonal skills and command of grammar, punctuation, tone, and style.
You think strategically and creatively about messaging and use media, communications, and digital tools to craft effective messages, develop compelling content, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
You are comfortable creating and editing digital content, including graphics, short videos, and social media posts that engage diverse audiences and extend the reach of the office.
You believe in the mission Office of the Secretary of the State, from safeguarding elections to supporting businesses, and you want to help communicate that work clearly and effectively to the people of Connecticut.
You want to do work that matters, are motivated by public service, and thrive as part of a collaborative team committed to strengthening Connecticut.

Nice To Haves

Experience producing clear and accurate communications under tight deadlines, including writing audience-appropriate press releases, talking points, speeches, testimony, and rapid-response materials for a high-level executive or elected official.
Experience applying editorial judgment to translate complex information, such as legislation, policy, or election procedures, into accurate, accessible language for the public, media, or other stakeholders.
Experience developing and implementing strategic communications, including tailoring messages for multiple audiences, media platforms, and internal teams or divisions.
Experience working in fast-moving or high-pressure environments, including shifting between quick-turnaround writing and longer-form content while maintaining consistency in clarity, tone, and style.
Experience interacting with media outlets, including responding to press inquiries, preparing briefing materials, coordinating event logistics, and maintaining working relationships with reporters.
Experience creating digital content for public use, including graphics, short-form videos, and social media posts, using tools such as Canva or similar production platforms.
Experience using Microsoft 365 applications to draft, coordinate, track, and distribute communications, including support for rapid-response messaging and cross-team collaboration.

Responsibilities

Write and edit press releases, talking points, speeches, op-eds, newsletters, and legislative testimony
Manage daily media relations, respond to inquiries, and maintain strong relationships with reporters
Support the Secretary at press events, including logistics, materials, and on-site coordination
Help implement media, public relations, and communications strategies that elevate the Secretary's priorities and public outreach
Track media coverage, distribute daily clips, and maintain press distribution lists
Monitor state and national issues, including legislative proposals that may require public communication
Plan and post social media content and monitor trends that inform the office's messaging
Work closely with the Communications Director on message development and overall strategy
Take on additional responsibilities as needed in a dynamic environment where priorities shift quickly

Benefits

Comprehensive health and dental insurance, providing you with peace of mind and access to quality healthcare.
Robust pension plan and supplemental retirement offerings to secure your financial future.
Generous paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, personal days, and 13 holidays per calendar year.
We are an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer, which means you may be eligible to have qualifying student loans forgiven after 10 years of service.
A culture that recognizes the importance of work/life balance and offers alternate work schedules and telecommuting options.
Opportunities to invest in your professional growth and development with training programs, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for advancement within the State of Connecticut.
Connecticut is a strong community with a lot to offer in entertainment, food and shopping, recreation in our beautiful state parks and forests, diverse culture, and rich history.

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