Senior Communications Specialist

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management

$82K — $95K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Public Administration, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in communications, media relations, or public affairs.
  • Strong command of AP Style and professional editing standards.
  • Proficiency in digital communication tools and media monitoring systems.
  • Exceptional writing and message-development skills focused on executive communications.

Responsibilities

  • Manage the Cannabis Control Authority's communications and public affairs efforts.
  • Develop and implement internal and external communication strategies.
  • Oversee media relations and digital communication platforms.
  • Ensure timely and accurate information dissemination to stakeholders and the public.
  • Provide guidance on complex issues while coordinating across teams.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work with a growing and dynamic public authority.
  • Engagement in meaningful public service related to cannabis control.
  • Access to training and professional development opportunities.
Full Job Description
Senior Communications Specialist

Job no:
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Henrico, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety, Public Relations / Communications

Title: Senior Communications Specialist

State Role Title: Salary Non-Specified

Hiring Range: Hiring range for this position is $82,668 - $95,0681, commensurate with education and experience

Pay Band: UG

Agency: VA Cannabis Control Authority

Location: VA Cannabis Control Authority

Agency Website: https://cca.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Communications Officer manages the Cannabis Control Authority's communications and public affairs efforts. This role develops and delivers clear strategies for internal and external communications, oversees media relations and digital platforms, and ensures accurate, timely information is shared with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public. By providing expert guidance on complex issues and coordinating across teams, the position strengthens public trust and supports the Authority's mission.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Principles and best practices of public relations, media engagement, and strategic communications.
  • Strong command of AP Style and professional editing standards.
  • Knowledge of digital communication tools, content platforms, analytics, and media monitoring systems.
  • Exceptional writing, editing, and message-development skills, including executive-level communications.
  • Ability to manage media relations, including during emerging, sensitive, or fast-moving issues.
  • Strong organizational, analytic, and project management skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, including executives, the public, media, and stakeholders.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with media outlets, community stakeholders, and internal partners.

Required Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Public Relations, Communications, Public Administration, or a related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or a related discipline.
  • A cover letter is required and will be included in the Experience Questions section of the application.


Additional Considerations

Preferred (Optional) Qualifications

  • Experience within government, public sector, or regulated industries.
  • Familiarity with digital content management systems and analytics tools.
  • Advanced writing and editing experience supporting executive or senior leadership communications.
  • Experience managing or contributing to large-scale communications campaigns.


Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Contact Information

Name: Angela Nichols

Phone: 804-540-2290

Email: [email protected]

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