Press Secretary
Overview:
Boston Public Schools, an urban public school district serving approximately 56,000 students in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 across 125 schools, is seeking dynamic, detail-oriented and resourceful candidates for a press secretary position. The press secretary reports directly to the communications director to support the development and implementation of the district’s communications strategies. The press secretary serves as the lead spokesperson for the superintendent and on behalf of the Boston Public Schools and manages communication activities district-wide. Working with the communications director, the press secretary oversees all aspects of the communications and public relations functions, including press releases, media inquiries, letters to staff and families, press conferences as well as crisis communications at the school and district level. The press secretary works actively with the communications team, a variety of departments, and schools to identify content to generate positive stories that increase awareness of programs, services and spotlight the achievements of students and staff.
Responsibilities:
The general duties and responsibilities of the position are included but not limited to the information listed below.
- Develop key messaging and implement communication strategies relevant to the superintendent’s priorities;
- Serve as spokesperson on behalf of the superintendent and Boston Public Schools;
- Brief and advise the superintendent on media appearances and responses;
- Work with the communications director to identify opportunities for thoughtful, targeted media coverage as part of a larger strategy to reach all relevant audiences, which includes ethnic media sources;
- Work closely with staff to respond to all media inquiries in a timely manner;
- Provide communications and media training and support to district officials, principals, department heads and other staff;
- Maintain strong relationships with principals, department heads and other BPS staff and stakeholders, as well as visiting schools periodically to develop newsworthy story ideas;
- Support the promotion and marketing of BPS schools and programs;
- Oversee the tracking of media coverage and maintaining up-to-date media contacts lists;
- Manage communication with media outlets during emergency and crisis situations as well as serving as the point person to notify the media and public about school closures.
- Prepare, edit and produce media materials, including press releases, statements, op-eds, quotes, talking points and briefing materials;
- Work with the communications director, the Mayor’s press office, and other city departments as appropriate to coordinate messaging and talking points;
- Actively engage, cultivate and manage relationships reporters;
- Assist in responding to Freedom of Information Act and public records requests.
Skills Required:
- Ability to exercise good judgement and attention to detail;
- Ability to think strategically and prepare clear, concise communications materials;
- Experience with implementing and managing a variety of key initiatives concurrently;
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, while also producing a high volume of work independently.
- Ability to be creative and thoughtful on how to reach many different and diverse audiences.
Qualifications:
Requires a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Communications, English, Journalism, Public Relations, Government, Public Policy or related field. Experience in media relations is required. Exceptional oral and written communications skills are required. City of Boston residency is required.
This role requires availability during evenings and weekends to respond to media inquires and support district events that occur outside of regular business hours.
Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Terms: Managerial, C53. City of Boston Residency is Required.
The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record (inquiries only), disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.