Job Title: Director
Department/Agency: Office of Public Information (OPI)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $80,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Office of Public Information (OPI)
Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Director of the Office of Public Information (OPI) serves as the senior executive overseeing all public communication and media relations for the American Samoa Government (ASG). This role ensures the transparent, accurate, and timely dissemination of information to the public, fostering trust and understanding between the government and the community. The Director leads strategic communication initiatives, manages a multi-platform media approach, and oversees a team dedicated to amplifying government programs and services.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Strategy and Policy Development: Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies that align with government objectives, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. Advise government officials on policies and best practices to enhance public relations and engagement.
Media Relations: Establish and maintain relationships with local and national media outlets, facilitating accurate and widespread coverage of government activities.
Content Creation and Oversight: Supervise the development, editing, and distribution of content across television, radio, print, and digital channels, ensuring high-quality, ethical, and culturally appropriate messaging.
Community and Public Engagement: Act as the primary liaison to the public, gathering feedback, addressing concerns, and fostering positive relationships between the government and its constituents.
Crisis Communication:Â Lead public information efforts during emergencies, providing timely and clear updates to ensure public safety and awareness.
Department Leadership and Oversight: Manage and mentor a diverse team of communication professionals while overseeing the department's budget to ensure efficient resource allocation and program execution.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strategic Communication Expertise: Demonstrated ability to develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies that align with organizational goals and priorities.
Media Savvy: In-depth knowledge of media operations and platforms, including print, broadcast, and digital media, with the ability to navigate diverse media landscapes effectively.
Leadership and Team Management: Strong leadership skills with experience managing diverse teams, fostering a collaborative work environment, and driving performance.
Crisis Management: Proven ability to manage communication during high-pressure situations, ensuring clear, timely, and accurate information dissemination during emergencies.
Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: Deep understanding of Samoan culture, values, and traditions, ensuring communication strategies are culturally appropriate and respectful.
Government Relations: Familiarity with governmental structures, policies, and processes, with the ability to advise senior officials on communication strategies and public engagement.
Technological Proficiency: Expertise in using modern communication tools, including social media platforms, content management systems, and multimedia production software.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: Strong analytical skills to evaluate communication effectiveness, make data-driven decisions, and adjust strategies as needed.
Public Policy Knowledge: Understanding of public policy development and implementation, with the ability to craft messages that effectively communicate complex policy initiatives.
Relationship Building: Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including media outlets, community leaders, and the public.
Program Oversight: Capacity to oversee multiple programs simultaneously while ensuring quality, consistency, and measurable outcomes.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to address sensitive issues diplomatically and make informed decisions in dynamic situations.
Advocacy and Influence: Ability to influence decision-making processes and advocate for communication priorities within government structures.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education: A bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field is required. A master’s degree is strongly preferred.
Experience: At least 10 years of experience in public relations, media relations, or communications, including 5 years in a leadership role. Experience in a government or public sector environment is highly desirable.
Certifications:Â Professional certifications, such as Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), are advantageous.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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