Public Affairs Director

Director of Public Affairs & CommunicationsThe Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) is excited to offer a competitive opportunity to serve as the Director of Public Affairs & Communications in the Director's Office. Job responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: The Virginia Medicaid Public Affairs & Communications Director provides strategic leadership for all communications and public affairs activities for the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). The position is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that advance the agency's mission, priorities, programs, and initiatives. The Public Affairs and Communications Director serves as a primary agency spokesperson and media representative, communicating with news organizations, legislators, members, providers, advocates, community organizations, and other stakeholders. The position ensures that complex Medicaid policies, program changes, benefits, requirements, and agency initiatives are communicated clearly, accurately, consistently, and in a manner accessible to diverse audiences. The position leads communications during high-profile initiatives, policy changes, emergencies, and other issues that may significantly affect Medicaid members, providers, or the Commonwealth. The position also develops executive communications and provides strategic counsel to agency leadership on communications risks, opportunities, messaging, and stakeholder engagement. This position develops and executes a proactive communications strategy that explains complex policy and implementation work in clear, accessible terms. Draft and oversee key communications products, including talking points, press statements, op eds, briefing memos, rapid response materials. Coordinate messaging with HHR Communications team. Translate technical policy and implementation details into messages that resonate with legislators, local leaders, providers, and the public. Track media coverage and public narrative related to Secretariat priorities and adjust strategy as needed. Support coordination between policy, program, and communications teams to ensure messaging reflects execution reality. The business needs of the position will have in office requirements to include but are not limited to in-person meetings, external and internal stakeholder meetings, and press appearances as needed. Located in beautiful Central Virginia, the Richmond area puts you just 2 hours from the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia Beach and Washington DC. To learn more about the Richmond, VA area visit: https://www.virginia.org/ The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) is working to improve the health and well-being of Virginians through access to high-quality health care coverage. DMAS wants talented individuals who can align their experience with the mission of the agency and its core values – service, collaboration, trust, problem solving and adaptability. At the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) we encourage and promote that you Come as you are | Become who you want to be | That is our promise.