Press Secretary

Job Description:

Press secretaries are public relations professionals who manage media relations for their assigned group of Republican state representatives. These individuals help their members and the caucus maintain a positive public image while effectively using traditional and new media to share information with constituents.

Job Responsibilities:

• Writing: Craft press releases, media advisories and e-newsletters for members, with strict adherence to AP Style.
• Media Relations: Pitch stories to reporters, coordinate local, state and national media interviews, and manage distribution lists. Press secretaries do not speak on the record or on behalf of their members.
• News Monitoring: Track media coverage of members through Google alerts, social media monitoring and staying up-to-date with local and state news. Distribute news clips to members daily.
• E-Communications: Craft and distribute weekly e-newsletters for members and manage distribution lists. Update and maintain member webpages.
• Publications: Create and update handouts for legislators to distribute during town hall meetings, school visits and other events.
• Audio/Video/Photos: Record, edit and distribute members’ audio soundbites to local radio stations. Work with trained staff or independently to record, edit and distribute video interview clips of members to TV stations. (Opportunities also available to script, edit and distribute the weekly caucus podcast.) Take photos of members during events and meetings for use on materials and online.
• Press Conferences: Plan and coordinate media availabilities and press conferences for members.
• Direct Mail: Assist with writing and coordination of member content for direct mail pieces, including post cards, surveys and newsletters.

Qualifications: 

Applicants should possess a high level of communication skills, both verbal and written. This job requires time management skills, the ability to prioritize tasks and work under tight deadlines. Communications staff must adhere to AP Style.

All House employees are expected to maintain high ethical and confidentiality standards consistent with office policies. A press secretary reports directly to the director of communications and technology, and he or she is subject to an annual performance evaluation.

Education:

A bachelor’s degree is required to be considered for this position. A degree in public relations, journalism, telecommunications, marketing, communications or political science is recommended.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in this position, please send your application and resume with writing samples to Erin Wittern, Director of Communications and Technology for Indiana House Republicans, at [email protected].