DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

About the role

The City of Chicago Treasurer’s Office seeks a Director of Public Affairs to manage and direct the public affairs and media relations activities for the City of Chicago Treasurer’s Office.

Essential Duties

• Coordinates and oversees the department's public affairs and media relations activities
• Develops strategies to create and maintain a positive image of the department
• Directs public information programs to convey the department's mission, goals, and services to the general public
• Promotes goodwill for the department through public relations activities and media campaigns
• Serves as liaison to various City groups (e.g., the Mayor's Press Secretary's Office, City Council) regarding public information issues
• Arranges news conferences and interviews for departmental personnel
• Serves as department spokesperson to the news media
• Researchers, writes, and edits speeches and talking points for department managers
• Develops content for messages to be communicated to the public (e.g., public service announcements, press releases, Intranet and Internet websites, promotional materials)
• Performs other duties as assigned

Additional Duties May Be Required For This Position

Location: 121 N. LaSalle Street, 1st floor
Days: Monday - Friday
Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a relevant field
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role
• Proven experience developing and implementing public information programs
• Prior experience in the financial services industry or knowledge of financial services and products is a plus
• Proficiency in social media platforms and media monitoring tools

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of government communication practices and techniques
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Creative and self-starter: the ability to initiate the crafting of engaging and compelling content and images
• Strong networking abilities and a proactive approach to media engagement
• Demonstrate and maintain strong, positive relationships with local media outlets
• Ability to handle crisis communications effectively
• Well-organized, able to multitask and work well under pressure, with strong leadership abilities

Other Work Requirements

• Initiative
• Adaptable/Flexible
• Innovative
• Dependable
• Attention to Detail

Selection Requirements

• You must submit the following documents to Amanda Brown | Asst City Treasurer | Director, Human Resources:
• Amanda.Brown@cityofchicago.org
• Resume (required)
• Cover letter
• A portfolio that demonstrates your expertise

For Information on our employees benefits

Please visit our benefits website at: https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/dhr/supp_info/JobClassification/2025_Classification_and_Pay_Plan.pdf

For Information on our salary and title structure

Please visit our classifications website at: https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/depts/dhr/supp_info/JobClassification/2025_Classification_and_Pay_Plan.pdf

Selection Requirements

• All references to political sponsorship or recommendation must be omitted from all application materials submitted for city employment.
• The City of Chicago is an Equal Employment Opportunity, Military Friendly, and Fair Chance Employer.