Deputy Chief of Communications

About the role

The Office of the District Attorney, Bronx County ("BXDA") is charged with the twin goals of ensuring public safety and striving for equal justice for the over 1.4 million members of the Bronx County community. By "Pursuing Justice with Integrity," the BXDA places a focus on assistance for crime victims while simultaneously ensuring fairness to defendants.

Moreover, the BXDA aims to balance the need to seek appropriate punishment for certain crimes while recognizing when punitive measures do not adequately advance justice. By recognizing these significant distinctions and acting accordingly, BXDA has established a standard of excellence in the representation of the Bronx community at large, which continues to grow stronger every day.

In furtherance of this mission, the BXDA seeks experienced and enthusiastic Deputy Chief of Communications.

The Communications / Public Information Office is looking for a Deputy Chief of Communications, who should have strong knowledge of New York City, the Bronx, the Criminal Justice System, police issues and crime as well as past experience as a journalist covering these subjects. The Deputy Chief of Communications will use their knowledge and experience to assist the Chief of Communications in handling media requests and disseminating news of the Bronx District Attorney's Office to the media and the public as well as handling internal communications for the Office.

Job Responsibilities

Specific duties will include, but are not limited to the following

• Assist the Chief of Communications with day-to-day operations of the Communications / Public Information Unit.
• Supervise, train, and provide guidance to communication staff under the direction of the Chief of Communication.
• Handle media inquiries, arrange interviews, organize press conferences.
• Write press releases, external newsletters, and internal communications such as memos, newsletters.
• Prepare speeches, testimony, and PowerPoints for DA.
• Attend court proceedings.
• Accompany DA to events, meetings, and external press conferences.
• Mentor and supervise a staff of (6) staff members.
• All other duties assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in a supervisory role.
• A master's degree in communications, public relations, political communication, or strategic communications.

Hours / Shift: Monday - Friday, some nights and weekends.

Preferred Skills

• Experience as a journalist covering crime, the criminal justice system, and police issues in New York City for seven to 10 years can be combined with experience as a public information officer or spokesperson role in these areas.
• Knowledge of the diversity and complexity of Bronx County.
• Strong understanding of the Criminal Justice system, and the NYC and Bronx communities
• Proficient in MS Office Outlook, Word, Excel, Adobe, MS Teams, Zoom, and social media.
• Excellent writing, editing, oral and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and work a flexible schedule.
• Ability to effectively engage in inter/intra agency collaboration and navigate a variety of systems.
• Ability to work independently, assess priorities, take initiative, handle multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.

Qualifications & Requirements

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university and four years of progressively responsible experience in journalism, public relations, advertising, or closely related fields.
• High school diploma or its educational equivalent and 8 years of full-time, paid experience in the areas stated in "1" above.