City Jobs

Press Secretary

Description

Summary of Position 

The Press Secretary serves as the coordinator for media coverage and engagement for the City of New Orleans. This position leads coordination and management of logistics for all press availabilities, and onsite and offsite press conferences for Mayor and other City officials.  

 

Organizational Relationships 

  • Supervisor: The Director of Communications  
  • Assignments received from: The Director and Deputy Director of Communications  
  • Interacts with: All media entities and reporters, in addition to the full Communications staff and other government employees and officials  

Duties and Responsibilities 

A. Core Functions (provide at least 3): 

  • Drafts media advisories, press releases, talking points and remarks, statements, and correspondence as needed 
  • Responsible for creative input for Administration messaging 
  • Cultivates and maintains relationships with local and national journalists and media organizations 

B. Additional Responsibilities (if applicable): 

  • Provides logistical support for press conferences, press briefings and media availabilities including preparation of the press room and/or podium, and media outreach as needed  

C. Physical Requirements, if any:  

  • n/a 

Examples of Work (provide 3-5 examples) 

  • ​​Managing logistical coordination for press conferences  
  • ​Drafting media advisories announcing upcoming media events  
  • ​Drafting press releases as needed  
  • ​Drafting statements and/or quotes for press releases as needed  ​

Qualifications and Skills 

  • Extensive media relations and understanding of newsroom operations 
  • Education and background in journalism, communications, public relations, and/or political science 
  • Must possess communication, organization, and strong computer skills 
  • Detail oriented and can manage time effectively 

Other Qualifications, Skills, and Competencies:  

  • Experience working in a fast-paced environment 
  • Proven leadership skills and experience  
  • Ability to juggle multiple projects simultaneously 
  • Flexibility and adaptability 
  • Creativity and innovation 
  • A passion for the community engagement and government relations 

​For questions or to apply, please email your resume and cover letter to Lesley Thomas at Lesley.Thomas@nola.gov.