PRESS SECRETARY

Press Secretary Job Description

Overview: 

The State of Illinois is comprised of over 50 agencies, boards, and commissions whose purpose is to provide services and improve the lives of all Illinois residents. Available positions are based in Chicago with statewide travel required.

Responsibilities: 

The Pritzker Administration is seeking a Press Secretary to join the communications team in the Governor’s Office. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience working with the media, rapid response, staffing principals, running press conferences, writing and editing, and driving press coverage. The successful candidate will bring critical thinking, empathy, exceptional attention to detail, and excellent written/oral presentation skills. Ideal candidates should have a proven track record in media relations, with at least 4 years of experience in communications and media relations.

What You'll Do:

• Reports to the Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications.
• Works closely with the Deputy Chief of Staff to drive messages and highlight the goals and successes of the administration.
• Serves as the primary team member managing day-to-day media relations, with a special focus on breaking news, legislative agenda and issues, and other priority issues for the Governor’s Office.
• Drafts media responses, manages inquiries, and executes rapid response strategies.
• Serves as on-the-record spokesperson.
• Serves as primary team member prepping and staffing the Governor for open press events.
• Proactively pitches stories to media.
• Maintains and grows relationships with members of the media throughout different Illinois media markets.
• Other duties as assigned by Press Secretary or Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 4 years of communications and media relations experience preferred. 
• Extensive experience working with the media, including on-the-record experience.
• Extensive experience prepping and staffing principals, preferably in government. 
• Strong writing, editing, and proofing skills.
• Excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to think and communicate clearly, formulate a clear point of view on complicated issues, and create a concise and well-written narrative.
• Proven ability to work well within a team and elevate potential press opportunities or challenges to leadership.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment, work well under tight deadlines, and readily adapt to changing priorities.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks/projects at once.