Director of Communications

Who We Are The Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) serves as the primary advocate for veterans, active service members, and their families across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. EOVS is committed to ensuring that veterans and their families have awareness of and access to the benefits, services, and support they have earned, and that they are treated with dignity, honor, and respect. Through its oversight of veterans’ programs, state‑operated Veterans’ Homes, Memorial Cemeteries, outreach initiatives, and constituent services, EOVS works to improve the lives of those who have served and their loved ones. Position Summary The Director of Communications reports to the Chief of Staff and serves as the principal communications strategist for EOVS. The incumbent develops and leads a comprehensive communications plan that advances the Secretariat’s mission and Administration priorities. Responsibilities include strategic direction for all communications functions—media relations, executive communications, speechwriting, digital and social media, internal communications, public engagement, and crisis communications—plus serving as the primary spokesperson and media contact for EOVS. Responsibilities Develop and implement a comprehensive agency‑wide communications strategy aligned with EOVS priorities and Administration goals. Advise the Secretary, Chief of Staff, and executive leadership on communications strategy, messaging, and stakeholder engagement. Serve as the primary spokesperson and lead all media relations efforts, including press inquiries, interviews, statements, and coordination with the Governor’s Office. Prepare speeches, remarks, talking points, briefing materials, and other executive communications. Oversee digital, web, social media, and internal communications to ensure consistency of messaging and branding. Supervise communications staff and provide leadership in content development, multimedia production, and internal messaging. Lead communications planning and execution for public events, press conferences, ceremonies, and statewide observances. Monitor media coverage, assess reputational risk, and develop crisis and emergency communications strategies. Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, veteran‑serving organizations, community partners, and other stakeholders. Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief of Staff and Secretary. Minimum Qualifications Demonstrated supervisory and managerial experience leading professional communications or public affairs staff. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively to executive leadership, media, stakeholders, and the public. Demonstrated experience in media relations, public messaging, and issues management. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment. Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills. Sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive, confidential, or politically complex matters. Experience working across multiple divisions, agencies, or stakeholder groups to ensure coordinated outcomes. Preferred Qualifications Experience in public sector communications, government affairs, public policy, or public administration. Experience in executive‑level communications support, including speechwriting and briefing preparation. Demonstrated experience in crisis communications and reputational risk management. Experience overseeing digital communications, website content, and social media strategy. Experience supporting high‑profile public events, ceremonies, and press conferences. Familiarity with veteran‑serving organizations, military communities, or public service agencies. EEO Statement An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. #J-18808-Ljbffr