Job Description

The Chief of Communications and Strategies (Chief) for the Office of Children and Families is responsible for leading and developing strategic communications for OCF, including responding to press inquiries.  The Chief reports to the Deputy Mayor for OCF and is part of the executive leadership team for both OCF and the Department of Human Services.   The Directors of Communications for OCF and DHS report directly to the Chief.  The Chief serves as the liaison for the Deputy Mayor with the Communications Directors of Parks and Recreation and the Free Library of Philadelphia.  The Chief serves as the lead for crisis communications for OCF, its programs and its member Departments.

The Chief is responsible for devising, implementing, and executing a strategic communications vision for OCF, as well as for managing the communications opportunities internally and externally.  This involves communicating to employees, the press, traditional and social media, key stakeholders, and the public.   The position requires promoting and marketing cross department collaboration between OCF Departments and other City agencies.

This position also serves as the public information officer for OCF and leads all efforts to market OCF programs and services. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee the administration of OCF Communications, Marketing, and Strategy. 
• Oversee the response to press inquiries, often on complex issues, while ensuring compliance with appropriate deadlines.   
• In coordination with the Deputy Mayor, manage crisis communications for OCF and its Departments.
• Ensure the coordination of communications with the Mayor’s Press Office and other City agencies to ensure continuity of messaging. 
• Oversee the preparation of speeches, talking points and/or testimony for the Deputy Mayor and other senior staff. 
• Oversee OCF content on internal intranet and external internet sites, updating news stories and ensuring content is up to date. 
• Serve as a member of the OCF Executive Cabinet (senior leadership team) and DHS Executive Cabinet. 
• Responsible for drafting and editing press releases and written materials for the press and internal staff. 
• Coordinate internal communications including monthly staff newsletter, weekly e-bulletins, and special messages for the Deputy Mayor to staff.
• Manage the implementation of citywide public service campaigns for various programs and issues, including but limited to, safety, foster parent recruitment, PHLpreK, and Community Schools.
• Advise senior staff, including the Deputy Mayor of OCF, in preparation for legislative hearings and other government forums, and prepare all related testimony.  
• Work with all relevant federal, state, and local government partners to advance the goals of OCF on behalf of Philadelphia’s children and families. 
• Supervise and manage subordinate staff.   
• OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED.

COMPETENCIES, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Excellent written and oral communication skills. 
• Critical thinker with an ability to multi-task and navigate complex issues. 
• Works well under pressure and can manage tight deadlines. 
• Ability to understand the big picture and relate well to staff, community, and the press.
• Able to provide strategic advice for both long and short-term projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required and a minimum of 10 years of relevant industry or professional services experience required
• Ability to manage and execute functions in a crisis.
• Excellent and succinct writer
• Broad, deep, and current knowledge of digital technology, marketing, and business strategy
• Visionary and Strategic thinking skills – great at seeing patterns and connecting the dots
• Effective leader who can support, build, and foster an inclusive work climate.

Additional Information

TO APPLY: INTERESTED CANDIDATES MUST SUBMIT A COVER LETTER, WRITING SAMPLE, REFERENCE AND RESUME.

Salary Range: $120,000 - $130,000 

Did you know?

• We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer
• 25% tuition discount program for City employees (and sometimes spouses and dependents as well) in partnership with area colleges and universities
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available

*THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST BE A CITY OF PHILADELPHIA RESIDENT WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF HIRE

_PLEASE NOTE THAT EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2021 THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA IS REQUIRING ALL NEW EMPLOYEES TO PRESENT PROOF OF VACCINATION AGAINST COVID-19. _

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov.

For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx