Overview
This position is open to current Colorado residents only.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Opt in below to receive text message updates on CDHS recruiting events. CDHSCareers. Most State of Colorado employees are eligible for a great benefit package. See the Supplemental Information section for details. Description Of Job About This Position: The Chief Communications Officer will be responsible for bringing together a holistic and integrated vision for the BHA’s strategic communications and marketing. Reporting to the Commissioner, they will provide transformational leadership to a team developing and implementing thoughtful, people-centered communications strategies. The role advances the BHA’s mission and impact by leading a powerful and dynamic team that fosters an environment of collaboration, curiosity, innovation, belonging, and authenticity. The Communications Director works with the team in a way that creates safety and comfort for themselves and others. This role is a key partner in BHA leadership, developing strategy, crafting editorial content, harmonizing internal communications, and establishing trusting relationships with staff, community, and the press. The Communications Director works with agency partners, provider networks, and the people of Colorado to manage brand development and lead all communication efforts, bringing experience as a passionate storyteller, a digital innovator, and an excellent verbal and written communicator. Responsibilities
Develops and executes a comprehensive strategic communications plan for the BHA in coordination with the Governor’s office and collaboration with the BHA communications team, focusing on thought leadership, executive positioning, and proactive brand building through earned media, social media, events, and digital platforms. Prioritizes and designs systems with accessibility; diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); plain language; and belonging. Adopts new digital tools and implements process improvements. Brings a deep empathy for people in Colorado experiencing crisis and seeking meaningful, trusted, and accessible behavioral health care. Collaborates with BHA leadership team, community, and external partners who specialize in behavioral health to ensure communications strategies are mission-aligned and tied to the BHA strategic plan. Provides guidance and tactical insights to support teams across the BHA to effectively apply creative concepts, ensuring that programs have the right assets and channels to support the overall strategy. Operates with a growth mindset, consistently testing and refining tactics while striving for greater efficiencies. Develop and manage a crisis communications plan. Shapes, reports, and improves key communications KPIs with a strong numbers orientation and a curiosity about experimentation. Travels within and outside the State of Colorado for state agency and stakeholder meetings. Ensures all external communication efforts meet team and BHA accessibility, DEI, and belonging standards with experience writing alt-text and implementing other digital accessibility practices. Leads BHA audience and channel mapping work to better understand the alignment of tools and audience segments. Demonstrates knowledge of best practices around inclusive, equitable, plain, accessible, and gender-expansive language. Leads the development and evolution of the BHA brand and style guides. Serves as executive authority for BHA marketing campaigns and digital advertising supporting and guiding decisions made by the Deputy Communications Director. Imagine and plan BHA press conferences and public-facing media events. Leads the BHA approach to storytelling and content creation, developing a collection of collateral, including publications, reports, web content, email, social media, video, print, and ads. Works with staff and consultants to set and achieve targets for social media engagement; oversee content creation, ad spending, and community partnerships. Identifies audiences, develops, and ensures implementation of consistent and targeted messaging for the BHA to each type of audience. Represents the interests of the BHA in the media; supporting the Media Manager to prioritize where and how senior leadership and an expanded team of subject matter experts can and should be leveraged in the media to increase credibility and exposure. Oversee the development of content and dissemination of BHA external communications including but not limited to the website, public reports, press releases, and newsletter(s). Works with department heads to craft messaging and manage the flow of information across the organization developing talking points, as well as slide decks and other presentation resources. Implements internal communications objectives with tactical deliverables to drive engagement and ownership of the mission, culture and administration priorities. Manages processes/protocols for internal communications. Nurtures relationships with agency partners, central to BHA’s strategic plan and infrastructure for the daily functions of the BHA. Collaborates and leads engagement during major communications moments and tragedies, as appropriate. Evaluates results and assesses activities, employee surveys, events and other tools, and uses data to propose and test new solutions. Leads the Behavioral Health Joint Information Center (BH JIC), coordinating meeting logistics, drafting agendas, and facilitating interagency collaboration. Engages leadership and the team across teams to manage change as well as shapes a culture of collaborative, values-aligned behavioral health reform. Owns and focuses on DEI, belonging, and accessibility, champions diverse stories, and centers lived experience. Supervises through first or second-tier management a total of 6 FTE staff. Fulfills all supervisory duties including training, coaching, and regular supervision to ensure the programs are appropriately staffed and selected staff members are the best qualified and prepared for maximum productivity and job and program success. Plans, prioritizes, and assigns workload, and analyzes and monitors workflow and progress to ensure the quality and quantity of work meets standards, deadlines for deliverables, and program goals and objectives. Establishes work schedules, and reviews and approves work time and absences using the automated system. Identify training and developmental needs and provide training to develop skills. Provides feedback and coaching; writes, reviews, and signs performance plans; evaluate and sign performance evaluations. Resolves employee performance problems and issues, disputes, and informal (Step 1) grievances; issue corrective actions and initiate discipline as needed. Write and review position descriptions, recommend promotions or demotions, changes in pay, and sign personnel action forms. Initiate the hiring process, provide subject matter expertise during the comparative analysis process, interview applicants, and hire employees after consultation with the second-level appointing authority. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Department and Statewide policies and procedures. Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights Experience Only: Nine (9) years of relevant experience in communications, marketing, public relations or closely related field. OR Education And Experience: A combination of related education in communications, advertising, marketing, English, journalism or a closely related field and/or relevant experience in communications, marketing, public relations or closely related field equal to nine (9) years. Preferred Qualifications
Experience with the Adobe Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.) Experience working with content management systems, general knowledge of SEO and web traffic metrics Experience working with eMarketing systems, MailChimp preferred Excellent communication skills, including superior writing skills Experience writing overview documents and talking points using the voice of an executive Experience writing and communications through multiple channels, including websites, social media, print communication, partner communication, eMarketing communication, and more Experience serving as a spokesperson for an organization Experience in the public sector/government Ability and willingness to work with executives and senior leaders Highly motivated and organized Ability to work independently and as a contributing member of a team Ability to work with multiple, competing deadlines daily; ability to easily transition from one priority to another and manage constant interruptions, while remaining productive and meeting deadlines Conditions Of Employment
Standard background check and reference check required State residency requirement at time of application and throughout employment Motor Vehicle Check if the employee will drive a state-owned vehicle Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License or an non-restricted U.S. Driver's License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border Out-of-State Driver’s License holders must obtain a valid Colorado Driver’s License within 30 days of employment start date Other Conditions of Employment specific to Program Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose this information on the application and explain why it should not disqualify you Other Process Details
CDHS Selection Process Explanation: Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40 hrs per week). Part-time employment is prorated. Be sure your application specifically addresses qualifications, work products, and accomplishments relative to the position and requirements. Minimum Qualification Screening Process: A Human Resources Analyst will review the online application to determine if you meet minimum qualifications. Cover letters and resumes will not be reviewed during this stage. Document your work experience and qualifications clearly; do not say see resume. Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review: After minimum qualification screening, a review and rating of all information submitted will occur. Your work experience and duties should reflect your skills and qualifications. If there are supplemental questions, provide 4-8 sentences for each. Supplemental Questions & Appeals
Appeal Rights: You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. See the State Personnel Board website for details.
Important:
If you are current or former State of Colorado employee, provide your employee number and relevant details as requested in the supplemental questions. Contact The State Personnel Board For Assistance: (303) 866-3300. See CCR 801-1 for rules and procedures. About The Organization, Benefits, and Values
About Us & Benefits:
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of Coloradans. Benefits include medical and dental plans, retirement options, life insurance, disability coverage, paid holidays, wellness programs, flexible schedules, remote work arrangements where eligible, and more. Our Values:
We value a people-first approach, balance, accountability, transparency, ethics, and collaboration. We are committed to serving diverse communities with respect and inclusion. ADA Accommodations
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities during the application and selection process. For accommodations, contact cdhs_ada@state.co.us. Equal Opportunity
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. We encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status or military status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
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This position is open to current Colorado residents only.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Opt in below to receive text message updates on CDHS recruiting events. CDHSCareers. Most State of Colorado employees are eligible for a great benefit package. See the Supplemental Information section for details. Description Of Job About This Position: The Chief Communications Officer will be responsible for bringing together a holistic and integrated vision for the BHA’s strategic communications and marketing. Reporting to the Commissioner, they will provide transformational leadership to a team developing and implementing thoughtful, people-centered communications strategies. The role advances the BHA’s mission and impact by leading a powerful and dynamic team that fosters an environment of collaboration, curiosity, innovation, belonging, and authenticity. The Communications Director works with the team in a way that creates safety and comfort for themselves and others. This role is a key partner in BHA leadership, developing strategy, crafting editorial content, harmonizing internal communications, and establishing trusting relationships with staff, community, and the press. The Communications Director works with agency partners, provider networks, and the people of Colorado to manage brand development and lead all communication efforts, bringing experience as a passionate storyteller, a digital innovator, and an excellent verbal and written communicator. Responsibilities
Develops and executes a comprehensive strategic communications plan for the BHA in coordination with the Governor’s office and collaboration with the BHA communications team, focusing on thought leadership, executive positioning, and proactive brand building through earned media, social media, events, and digital platforms. Prioritizes and designs systems with accessibility; diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); plain language; and belonging. Adopts new digital tools and implements process improvements. Brings a deep empathy for people in Colorado experiencing crisis and seeking meaningful, trusted, and accessible behavioral health care. Collaborates with BHA leadership team, community, and external partners who specialize in behavioral health to ensure communications strategies are mission-aligned and tied to the BHA strategic plan. Provides guidance and tactical insights to support teams across the BHA to effectively apply creative concepts, ensuring that programs have the right assets and channels to support the overall strategy. Operates with a growth mindset, consistently testing and refining tactics while striving for greater efficiencies. Develop and manage a crisis communications plan. Shapes, reports, and improves key communications KPIs with a strong numbers orientation and a curiosity about experimentation. Travels within and outside the State of Colorado for state agency and stakeholder meetings. Ensures all external communication efforts meet team and BHA accessibility, DEI, and belonging standards with experience writing alt-text and implementing other digital accessibility practices. Leads BHA audience and channel mapping work to better understand the alignment of tools and audience segments. Demonstrates knowledge of best practices around inclusive, equitable, plain, accessible, and gender-expansive language. Leads the development and evolution of the BHA brand and style guides. Serves as executive authority for BHA marketing campaigns and digital advertising supporting and guiding decisions made by the Deputy Communications Director. Imagine and plan BHA press conferences and public-facing media events. Leads the BHA approach to storytelling and content creation, developing a collection of collateral, including publications, reports, web content, email, social media, video, print, and ads. Works with staff and consultants to set and achieve targets for social media engagement; oversee content creation, ad spending, and community partnerships. Identifies audiences, develops, and ensures implementation of consistent and targeted messaging for the BHA to each type of audience. Represents the interests of the BHA in the media; supporting the Media Manager to prioritize where and how senior leadership and an expanded team of subject matter experts can and should be leveraged in the media to increase credibility and exposure. Oversee the development of content and dissemination of BHA external communications including but not limited to the website, public reports, press releases, and newsletter(s). Works with department heads to craft messaging and manage the flow of information across the organization developing talking points, as well as slide decks and other presentation resources. Implements internal communications objectives with tactical deliverables to drive engagement and ownership of the mission, culture and administration priorities. Manages processes/protocols for internal communications. Nurtures relationships with agency partners, central to BHA’s strategic plan and infrastructure for the daily functions of the BHA. Collaborates and leads engagement during major communications moments and tragedies, as appropriate. Evaluates results and assesses activities, employee surveys, events and other tools, and uses data to propose and test new solutions. Leads the Behavioral Health Joint Information Center (BH JIC), coordinating meeting logistics, drafting agendas, and facilitating interagency collaboration. Engages leadership and the team across teams to manage change as well as shapes a culture of collaborative, values-aligned behavioral health reform. Owns and focuses on DEI, belonging, and accessibility, champions diverse stories, and centers lived experience. Supervises through first or second-tier management a total of 6 FTE staff. Fulfills all supervisory duties including training, coaching, and regular supervision to ensure the programs are appropriately staffed and selected staff members are the best qualified and prepared for maximum productivity and job and program success. Plans, prioritizes, and assigns workload, and analyzes and monitors workflow and progress to ensure the quality and quantity of work meets standards, deadlines for deliverables, and program goals and objectives. Establishes work schedules, and reviews and approves work time and absences using the automated system. Identify training and developmental needs and provide training to develop skills. Provides feedback and coaching; writes, reviews, and signs performance plans; evaluate and sign performance evaluations. Resolves employee performance problems and issues, disputes, and informal (Step 1) grievances; issue corrective actions and initiate discipline as needed. Write and review position descriptions, recommend promotions or demotions, changes in pay, and sign personnel action forms. Initiate the hiring process, provide subject matter expertise during the comparative analysis process, interview applicants, and hire employees after consultation with the second-level appointing authority. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Department and Statewide policies and procedures. Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights Experience Only: Nine (9) years of relevant experience in communications, marketing, public relations or closely related field. OR Education And Experience: A combination of related education in communications, advertising, marketing, English, journalism or a closely related field and/or relevant experience in communications, marketing, public relations or closely related field equal to nine (9) years. Preferred Qualifications
Experience with the Adobe Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.) Experience working with content management systems, general knowledge of SEO and web traffic metrics Experience working with eMarketing systems, MailChimp preferred Excellent communication skills, including superior writing skills Experience writing overview documents and talking points using the voice of an executive Experience writing and communications through multiple channels, including websites, social media, print communication, partner communication, eMarketing communication, and more Experience serving as a spokesperson for an organization Experience in the public sector/government Ability and willingness to work with executives and senior leaders Highly motivated and organized Ability to work independently and as a contributing member of a team Ability to work with multiple, competing deadlines daily; ability to easily transition from one priority to another and manage constant interruptions, while remaining productive and meeting deadlines Conditions Of Employment
Standard background check and reference check required State residency requirement at time of application and throughout employment Motor Vehicle Check if the employee will drive a state-owned vehicle Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License or an non-restricted U.S. Driver's License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border Out-of-State Driver’s License holders must obtain a valid Colorado Driver’s License within 30 days of employment start date Other Conditions of Employment specific to Program Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose this information on the application and explain why it should not disqualify you Other Process Details
CDHS Selection Process Explanation: Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40 hrs per week). Part-time employment is prorated. Be sure your application specifically addresses qualifications, work products, and accomplishments relative to the position and requirements. Minimum Qualification Screening Process: A Human Resources Analyst will review the online application to determine if you meet minimum qualifications. Cover letters and resumes will not be reviewed during this stage. Document your work experience and qualifications clearly; do not say see resume. Comparative Analysis Process – Structured Application Review: After minimum qualification screening, a review and rating of all information submitted will occur. Your work experience and duties should reflect your skills and qualifications. If there are supplemental questions, provide 4-8 sentences for each. Supplemental Questions & Appeals
Appeal Rights: You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. See the State Personnel Board website for details.
Important:
If you are current or former State of Colorado employee, provide your employee number and relevant details as requested in the supplemental questions. Contact The State Personnel Board For Assistance: (303) 866-3300. See CCR 801-1 for rules and procedures. About The Organization, Benefits, and Values
About Us & Benefits:
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of Coloradans. Benefits include medical and dental plans, retirement options, life insurance, disability coverage, paid holidays, wellness programs, flexible schedules, remote work arrangements where eligible, and more. Our Values:
We value a people-first approach, balance, accountability, transparency, ethics, and collaboration. We are committed to serving diverse communities with respect and inclusion. ADA Accommodations
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities during the application and selection process. For accommodations, contact cdhs_ada@state.co.us. Equal Opportunity
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments. We encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status or military status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
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