Minnesota Lottery is hiring: Director of Public Relations in Roseville

Overview

Director of Public Affairs for the Minnesota Lottery, an Executive Leadership Opportunity. The position oversees the Public Affairs Department, driving initiatives in public relations, social responsibility, and legislative engagement. The work aims to shape the Lottery’s brand, reputation, and relationships with stakeholders across Minnesota.

Working Title: Director of Public Relations
Job Class: Communications Manager 1
Agency: Minnesota Lottery

• Job ID: 89344
• Location: Roseville
• Telework Eligible: Hybrid
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 10/09/2025
• Closing Date: 10/29/2025
• Division/Unit: Public Affairs
• Work Shift: Day
• Work Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes
• Salary Range: $43.38 - $62.41 / hourly; $90,577 - $130,312 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/Unrep
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive

Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a proactive public affairs strategy that strengthens the Lottery’s brand and reputation among audiences including the general public, players, retailers, legislators, and beneficiary organizations.
• Collaborate with the executive leadership team to align communications with organizational goals, enhance employee engagement, and support long-term success.
• Lead internal and external communications, including media relations, crisis communications, and community engagement.
• Serve as the Lottery’s primary spokesperson during public events, legislative hearings, and media inquiries.
• Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, community leaders, advocacy groups, and government partners.
• Develop and execute legislative strategies to support the Lottery’s mission and operations.
• Cultivate strategic alliances with the Governor’s Office, key legislators, committee chairs, and organizations such as LCCMR.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of public affairs professionals; foster collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Oversee departmental planning, budgeting, and performance metrics to ensure effective resource management and measurable outcomes.
• Partner with Sales and Marketing to advance brand initiatives, product launches, and promotional campaigns.
• Direct the development of media kits, press releases, and earned media strategies to elevate visibility and credibility.

Minimum Qualifications

Four (4) years of advanced managerial experience or five (5) years of supervisory experience in the strategic planning, implementation, and administration of an organization’s communications program, including oversight and expertise across multiple communication areas. Note: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field may substitute for one year of experience; Master’s degree substitutes for eighteen (18) months; PhD substitutes for twenty-four (24) months.

• Candidates who meet the above education/experience will be evaluated on interview: exceptional interpersonal skills, strong public speaking and writing abilities, knowledge of political processes, media relations expertise, familiarity with social media, creativity and problem-solving, organizational and time management, ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
• Experience developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies and managing media relationships
• Public sector or gaming industry experience
• Knowledge of state policies, legislative and gambling laws, HR practices
• Understanding of Minnesota’s legislative process and state government dynamics
• Familiarity with Minnesota state government operations

Additional Requirements

Background checks: criminal, fingerprint, employment references, SEMA4 records, and driver’s license verification. Some sections require submission of documents (DD-214 for RSV eligibility) by closing date.

How To Apply

Click “Apply for Job” at the top of the page. For questions, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For veteran status and Connect 700 Program eligibility, follow the instructions and submit required documents by the closing date to HRDept@mnlottery.com.

About The Minnesota Lottery

Playing Our Part: Since 1990, the lottery has generated funds for programs benefiting Minnesotans and the environment. Lottery dollars support education, public safety, health and human services, and programs to prevent problem gambling. Visit www.mnlottery.com for more information.

Equal Opportunity Employer and Benefits

• State agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. Applications are encouraged from diverse groups.
• All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to protected characteristics.

Benefits

Benefits include health insurance, paid leave, holidays, retirement, life insurance, disability coverage, tax-advantaged accounts, professional development, and more.