Director of Communications

JOB SUMMARY 

Under the direction of the Chief of Staff and in collaboration with team members, the Director of Communications, manages the Commission’s external and internal communication efforts, implements the agency’s media relations strategy, and monitors for messaging opportunities to enhance the organization’s public reputation.   

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES 

• In collaboration with the Executive Director, Chief of Staff, Commissioners, senior staff, and the Communications team, execute a proactive strategic communications plan that drives initiatives and accomplishes priorities for the Commission; 

• Serve as primary advisor to the Chief of Staff; 

• Manage integrated communication campaigns, including coordination with external partners as well as the Communications Manager, Press Secretary, and Communications Specialist, to ensure output meets the Commission’s high standards and distribution needs; 

• Manage the development of timely and relevant press releases, media advisories, op-eds, web and social media content, speeches, presentations, and other external communications that raise the Commission’s visibility and enhance the agency’s brand, reputation, and voice;  

• Manage relationships with local, state, and national press, partner regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders to develop innovative communication opportunities that promote Massachusetts’ safe, equitable, and effective cannabis marketplace; 

• Manage inbound media responses and strategize outbound pitches to garner positive Commission press; 

• Monitor relevant news stories and identify emerging media trends regarding the Commission, the Commonwealth, and the cannabis industry; 

• In collaboration with the Communications team, organize and oversee press conferences, media availabilities as appropriate, media training, and preparation for public speaking engagements and interviews; 

• Manage crisis communications planning in collaboration with Commissioners, Executive Director, Chief of Staff, Press Secretary, and other relevant Commission staff;  

• Develop opportunities for Commissioners and staff to engage with the public and serve as subject matter experts, including but not limited to speaking opportunities, interviews, and panel discussions at organized events, media engagements, conferences, and other public-facing appearances; 

• Oversee agency digital media channels, in collaboration with the Chief of Staff and the Communications Manager, to boost engagement, public awareness, and outreach to applicants, licensees, municipalities, and other constituents, especially those from areas of disproportionate impact and disproportionately harmed communities; 

• Work collaboratively with Department Heads to ensure appropriate and timely processing of internal branding and general communication requests. 

• Collaborate on cross-department communications materials to ensure design, voice, and messaging are consistent with Commission style and reflect agency priorities. 

• Work with the Chief of Staff, Executive Director, and Commissioners to ensure consistent, on-brand messaging throughout integrated communication channels; 

• Support the Chief of Staff in managing the Commission’s editorial content calendar to ensure all team deadlines are met; 

• Maintain the Commission’s strategic communications and media relations strategy in line with the Communications team’s budget;  

• Attend public meetings and hearings that directly impact the Commission’s communications, marketing, and outreach, and manage relevant media inquiries and/or availabilities with subject matter experts; and  

• Perform related duties as assigned. 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• The Director of Communications will oversee the work of the Press Secretary, Communications Manager, Copywriter, and Communications Specialist.

• Provide Clear Direction and Guidance 

• Encourage Teamwork 

• Provide Opportunities for Employees to Learn and Improve Skills 

• Provide Mentoring Towards Advancement of Career Goals 

• Hold Self and Staff Accountable for Behaviors, Conduct, and Achieving Individual and Team Goals