The position of Lieutenant Governor is unlike any other in Washington state government because its duties fall both within the Executive and Legislative branches. Per the state’s Constitution, the Lieutenant Governor becomes the Acting Governor whenever the Governor leaves the state or is otherwise unable to serve. The Lieutenant Governor also presides over the State Senate, and as such, is the lead parliamentarian of that body.A s chair of the Senate Rules Committee, the Lieutenant Governor helps determine which legislation advances to the Senate floor for debate. The Lieutenant Governor leads an Executive branch agency, The Office of the Lieutenant Governor (OLG), which operates programs and proposes policies related to the office’s priorities: higher education and economic development. As Washington is one of the most trade-driven states in the nation, the Office fo the Lieutenant Governor works closely with the state’s international community in order to promote trade, goodwill, and economic development. DUTIES: The Director of Communications will play a primary role in meeting the communication needs of the OLG. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Director of Communications will work with other OLG staff members to present the most effective communications to the public promoting and publicizing the OLG’s initiatives, programs and strategic priorities. The Director of Communications will work in a variety of communications platforms including: press releases, press inquiries, website, emails and social media, and will assist with external relations (international travel, events, conferences, speeches, interviews, television and radio spots, etc). Key Responsibilities Design and implement the OLG’s communication strategies, platforms, and materials to promote the OLG’s initiatives. Write, edit, and design publications, newsletters, and handouts. Create content and maintain the OLG’s website and social media accounts (including Twitter and Facebook). Create style guides and templates to support the OLG’s communications Generate visual content by using photography, video, and graphic design Write press releases, and coordinate and respond to media inquiries. Establish and maintain relationships with members of the media. Ensure compliance with public disclosure and record retention laws. Respond to all public disclosure requests including those from media and constituents. Coordinate events with elected officials, constituents, and other stakeholders. Design and execute plans for statewide outreach when the State legislature is not in session Execute other duties in support of the OLG’s team members as assigned by the Chief of Staff or Lieutenant Governor.

Bachelor’s degree involving major study in communications, journalism, English, public relations/public affairs, political science, or closely related field
Two or more years of experience serving communications or public relations needs in the private or public sector.
Experience in graphic design, basic audio/ video editing, and social media
Ability to work a varied schedule, which may include evenings, weekends and occasionally travel statewide, nationally, or internationally.
Proven ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Experience working for government or an elected official is preferred.

Excellent written, public speaking, and interpersonal communications skills
Demonstrated experience in writing and editing material for publication in print, broadcast, and electronic media
Experience in website design and effective content
Working knowledge of graphic design/publishing and a familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud applications suite preferred, including audio and video editing
Skilled in print and online publishing applications, including Microsoft Office Suite and Google G-Suite applications
Familiarity with government including state government.
Working knowledge of Washington state legislature’s policy making processes
Familiarity with national issues impacting Washington state
Familiarity with eudcation, business, economic, trade, and labor issues.
Ability to take the lead on creating and implementing and office communications strategy
Willingness and ability to generate innovative approaches to public engagement and communications methods
Ability to demonstrate consistent attention to detail, and ability to complete complex tasks with limited supervision
Aptitude for quickly acquiring and analyzing new information
Ability to synthesize new policy issues, and communicate issues with non-technical audiences
Experience working and interacting with culturally diverse people from all communities
Knowledge of Spanish language preferred
Willingness and ability to take on a variety of other projects that regularly emerge in an environment with diverse demands and a small staff.