Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Communication

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Education (EOE) works to connect all Massachusetts residents with an education that creates opportunities. While Massachusetts' students rank first in the nation on many educational measures, the Executive Office of Education strives to strengthen the foundations of education reform, empower schools and educators, and develop pathways to college and careers so all students in the Commonwealth can succeed, regardless of their zip code. EOE works with the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Department of Higher Education (DHE), Children’s Trust, and the state's 29 public colleges and universities to coordinate programs and policies across the entire public education system. 

The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

Role Overview

The Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Communication's is part of the Secretariat’s communication office, and is responsible for both external and internal, managing a wide range of communication and media relations for the Executive Office of Education and associated agencies. In consultation with the Secretary and Chief of Staff, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Communications is responsible for all public information and public relations activities falling under the purview of the Executive Office of Education. Specifically, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Communications will develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy using a variety of forums and will have responsibility for both external and internal communications.

Additionally, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Director of Communications is responsible for effectively marketing and communicating Secretariat and Agency goals and policy initiatives to Commonwealth workers and employers, state and local government, the labor community, the general public, and the media.

Key Responsibilities:

Coordinate the communications operation, including daily media response, creation and dissemination of routine press releases, and long-term media strategy, for agencies within EOE including the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Early Education and Care, Department of Higher Education, and the Children’s Trust.

Manage the flow of press releases and communication from agencies through the Executive Office of Education for review by the Governor’s Press Office and, where appropriate, their subsequent electronic dissemination.

Monitor and oversee agency public information and public relations activities to ensure appropriateness and accuracy of content and to develop methods to expand and improve media relations.

Create and post digital content in order to maintain commanding presence on numerous social media platforms including Twitter and Instagram, edit and post content to the website.

Assist the Chief of Staff in matters related to the EOE & work with members of the team on policy matters and external affairs.

Take lead role in developing communications strategy, message development, and serving as chief speechwriter for Secretary of EOE; manage content development and editorial process of external and internal communications including presentations, PowerPoints, Secretariat-wide emails, and the development of talking points for senior officials including Governor, Lt. Governor, Secretary, and Commissioners.

Other duties as assigned.

Based on assignment, travel may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:

The qualified candidate will possess:

Experience in implementing successful communications processes and five to eight years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional, administrative, supervisory or management experience. 

Exceptional written and oral presentation skills and experience with ability to supervise and manager a busy Communications department

Multilingual/speaks Spanish

Effective and proven ability to multi-task with excellent organizational skills and meet critical deadlines while maintaining accuracy and quality productivity and outputs

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to prioritize in a rapidly changing environment

Ability to develop high-level strategy and execute on that strategy

Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information

Ability to manage and motivate a team

Strong team player and collaborator

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate to multiple stakeholders, both internally and externally

Strong analytical and research abilities

Understanding of the legislative and appropriation budget process

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following with their application: 

• Resume 

• Cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the position.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to maureen.t. o’brien@mass.gov  

This is a hybrid, full-time position based at the Executive Office of Education in Boston, MA. This position is currently expected to work in-person three days per week.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) six (6) years of full-time or, equivalent part-time, professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration or clinical management of which (B) at least two (2) years must have been in a supervisory or managerial capacity or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions below.

Substitutions:

I. A certificate in a relevant or related field may be substituted for one (1) year of the required (A) experience.

II. A Bachelor's degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required (A) experience.

III. A Graduate degree in a related field may be substituted for three (3) years of the required (A) experience.

IV. A Doctorate degree in a related field may be substituted for four (4) years of the required (A) experience.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100%25 of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.