Communications Director

Posting number: 2026-00934

Department: Mayor's Office

Job classification: Executive 3

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Public Relations, Management, Professional, Executive Management, Project Management, Communications, Program Management

Summary

Mayor Katie Wilson’s election was powered by thousands of people from every corner of Seattle who came together around a shared vision that it's time for something new — something more hopeful, more just, and more equitable. A vision that we can tackle big challenges and carry out ambitious projects. That we can take on the affordability crisis, bring people inside, and make our city a great place to live, work, and raise a family.  

As a coalition builder, she understands that we're in this together. No matter what neighborhood you live in, where you grew up, or how much money you make, you have a right to be here and to live a dignified life. She regularly reminds Seattleites every day that “This is your City.” 

To achieve this new kind of participatory and inclusive governance, Mayor Wilson seeks a seasoned Communications Director who can translate the Mayor’s policy agenda, vision, and values into a public narrative that connects with everyday people in Seattle and engages them in their city government. 

The Communications Director reports to the Deputy Mayor, is an integral member of the Mayor’s Senior Leadership team, and serves as the Mayor’s chief communications advisor. The Director leads a multi-disciplinary communications team that covers all aspects of public communications: media relations, digital and social media channels, speech writing, website and blog development, constituent services and communication, and internal employee communication. They will work in a fast-paced office, communicating daily with Seattle residents, visitors, and workers.   

The Communications Director will join the Wilson team after a three-month interim leadership period in which a strong foundation of systems and strategy has been developed. We are looking for a Communications Director ready to step into this program and drive execution with our talented team. 

This is an exciting moment for municipal leadership. Progressive Mayors elected across the country are driving agendas focused on affordability and sustainability. Join us to help tell Seattle’s story of what is possible when we work together to translate this vision into action.

Examples of duties

You will be responsible for the following:

• Strategic Communications Leadership:
  • Executing Mayor’s Office communications in alignment with established core values, policy priorities, and messages
  • Guiding media relations, including messaging, interview preparation, and press engagement
  • Supporting drafting and review of press releases, statements, advisories, and other public-facing materials in strong partnership with subject matter staff
  • Monitoring emerging issues and developing rapid response strategies
  • Guiding an interactive social media strategy, including core audiences, stories, tone, and brand, for the creative team to drive 
  • Developing and managing internal communications that keep the City’s workforce informed, engaged, and aligned with the Mayor’s vision, fostering transparency, connection, and shared purpose across departments
  • Overseeing Citywide branding and communications, rapid response during Citywide emergencies, and Citywide communications initiatives such as Plain Language and ADA Accessibility
• Communications Systems and Processes:
  • Maintaining strong internal systems for planning, content development, review, and approvals
  • Overseeing workflows for proactive communications, rapid response, and interdepartmental coordination
  • Creating or refining tools, templates, and protocols that improve efficiency and consistency
• Communications Support and Training:
  • Working directly with the Mayor on narrative development, message discipline, and public speaking preparation
  • Coaching senior leadership as needed to enhance clarity, tone, and effectiveness in high-priority engagements
  • Directing and approving briefing materials, talking points, and messaging guidance for major events and decisions in partnership with subject matter Directors and staff
  • Briefing and staffing the Mayor at community and media events, and during interviews
  • Coordinating relevant communications trainings for Mayor’s Office staff
• Communications Team Management and Support:
  • Providing mentorship a