Deputy Director of Communications

Industry:
Public Sector
Last Updated:
September 12, 2023

Job Description Overview

As a Deputy Director of Communications, your primary responsibility is to help establish a communication strategy for the public sector department that you work for. Your job is to ensure that the messages going out are consistent, clear, and effective. You will work with a team of communication professionals to create content that promotes the organizational objectives. You will also be responsible for managing internal and external communications, including crisis communication plans, speeches, and press releases. A Deputy Director of Communications job description may also include creating relationships with key stakeholders, including elected officials, journalists, and community organizations. As an important member of the leadership team, you will report to the Director of Communications and work closely with other department heads to ensure everyone is on the same page. With strong communication and strategic skills, you can make a significant impact in the public sector industry with this career.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist the Director of Communications in developing and implementing communication strategies
  • Manage and supervise the communications team, ensuring their work aligns with the organization's goals and guidelines
  • Serve as a point of contact for media inquiries and help coordinate media events and interviews 
  • Help draft and edit press releases, speeches, and other external-facing materials 
  • Collaborate with various departments within the organization to ensure consistent messaging and branding 
  • Monitor and analyze media coverage and provide regular reports to the Director of Communications 
  • Help manage the organization's social media accounts and online presence 
  • Provide guidance and training to staff on effective communication practices 
  • Assist in crisis communication and reputation management efforts as needed

Experience and Education Requirements

To be a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry, you need a mix of Education and Experience. You’ll need a Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field. Additionally, you’ll need significant experience in communications, preferably in the public sector or a related industry. You’ll need to demonstrate strong communication skills, both written and verbal, as well as experience with media relations, public relations campaigns, and crisis management. You’ll also need to have experience managing a team and working with high-level leaders within an organization. Generally, a Deputy Director of Communications is an experienced professional who has worked their way up the ladder with a combination of education and experience.

Salary Range

As a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry, you can expect a median salary range of $90,000 to $127,000 per year in the United States, according to Payscale. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as job location, organization size, and years of experience. For instance, in Washington, DC, the median salary for this role is $122,858, while in New York City, it is $107,345, based on data from Salary.com. In Canada, the average salary for a Deputy Director of Communications is around CAD $105,000, as reported by the Government of Canada Job Bank. Remember, salary ranges can also be influenced by education and additional certifications or qualifications.

Sources:

  • Payscale: https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=DeputyDirectorof_Communications/Salary
  • Salary.com: https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/deputy-director-of-communications-salary
  • Government of Canada Job Bank: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/occupation/32136/ca

Career Outlook

The career outlook for a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry over the next five years is growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in public relations and communications is projected to grow 6 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. As social media and digital communications continue to evolve, the need for effective communication strategies has become increasingly important.

Government agencies, non-profits and other public sector organizations will continue to require talented communication professionals to help shape public perception, manage crises, and convey important information to the public.

As such, those pursuing a career in communications can expect strong job growth and opportunities for advancement in the Public Sector industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does a Deputy Director of Communications do in the Public Sector industry?

A: A Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry is responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies for the government or other public organizations to engage various stakeholders.

Q: What qualifications are required to become a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry?

A: A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, or a related field, along with relevant work experience in government or public sector organizations, is typically required.

Q: What are the essential skills of a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry?

A: Strong written and verbal communication skills, strategic thinking, relationship building, and project management skills are essential for this role. Knowledge of government and public policy issues is also important.

Q: What is the average salary of a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry?

A: The average salary for a Deputy Director of Communications in the Public Sector industry varies depending on the geographic location and level of experience, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 annually.

Q: What are some challenges that a Deputy Director of Communications may face in the Public Sector industry?

A: The decentralized nature of government organizations and increased scrutiny from the public can make communicating effectively a challenge. Juggling multiple projects with tight deadlines and working with stakeholders who have varying interests can also be difficult.


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