Position Title: Communications Director
Location: Sioux Falls, SD
Application Due: Open immediately until position is filled
Interested parties should send a cover letter and resume to chair@sddp.org
Please list Communications Director in the Subject Line.
The South Dakota Democratic Party is seeking a Communications Director. This position will collaborate with other staff in creating and implementing a strategic plan, which accomplishes the election of Democrats at all levels of the South Dakota ballot. An ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented and a responsible self-starter who has proven leadership and management skills. Salary is commensurate with experience.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
-Effectively publicize the goals, platform, activities, and accomplishments of the State Party with the news media and key constituency groups through traditional and social media as well as digital marketing.
-Proactively manage a multidisciplinary department that manages all communications requests, rapid response communications, digital media, and the tracking operation.
-Complete research requests from the SDDP Executive Director, Party Chairperson, and other principals.
-Handle all media requests and prepare and disseminate communications tools such as press releases, op-eds, public statements, speeches, talking points, presentations, media advisories, briefings, pitch ideas, videos, email blasts, newsletters, social media, and graphics.
-Maintain relationships with media professionals across the state.
-Work with staff to manage difficult communications situations including crisis communications.
-Manage and produce email and social media calendar, direct list-building initiatives, and maintain content for the website and multiple social media platforms.
-Develop and execute press events with Executive Director, Party Chair, and elected officials.
-Prepare and execute short and long-term communications plans.
-Provide media training for legislative candidates and county party representatives.
-Work with the DNC, campaigns and democratic committees to coordinate press and communications strategy and assist as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
-Three years of professional work in communications, campaigns or related area preferred
-Excellent written and verbal communication as well as grammatical and copy editing skills
-Ability to think quickly on your feet and work in a fast-paced team environment
-Experience executing digital and traditional communications strategies
-Keen eye for identifying opportunities and potential risk, and ability to rally assets
-Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
-The ability to work under tight deadlines and adapt quickly to changing work priorities
The South Dakota Democratic Party is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other category prohibited by local, state, or federal law.