Senior Advisor for Strategic Communications & Public Engagement

GRADE

19

LOCATION OF POSITION

MDH Developmental Disabilities Administration, Baltimore MD

Main Purpose of Job

The Senior Advisor for Strategic Communications & Public Engagement serves as the primary architect for the Developmental Disabilities Administration’s (DDA) external and internal communications strategy. This role acts as a high-level advisor to the Chief of Staff and Director of External Affairs, and executive leadership, translating complex policy initiatives into accessible, transparent messaging. The position is responsible for driving integrated engagement strategies, managing media and legislative relations, and building trusted, long-term partnerships with participants, families, providers, and community stakeholders to advance the DDA’s mission and strategic priorities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Qualified candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in communications, journalism, public relations, public administration, public policy, marketing, English, social sciences, or a related field. Qualified candidates must also possess six or more years of professional experience in communications, public affairs, or strategic engagement. Master's degree from an accredited college or university will substitute for one year of general experience and a Doctorate will substitute for two years of general experience. Additional experience will substitute on a year-for-year basis for the college degree.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

The desired candidate should be an experienced communications and public affairs professional with demonstrated expertise in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, public policy, media relations, and government affairs. The successful candidate should also have a proven record of advising senior leadership, developing integrated communications strategies, managing complex or sensitive issues, and building trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, sound political and organizational judgment, and the ability to translate complex policies into clear, accessible messages are essential. Experience engaging individuals with developmental disabilities, families, providers, advocacy organizations, elected officials, and government partners is highly desirable. Knowledge of developmental disabilities, health and human services, Medicaid, or other complex public-sector programs, as well as experience with Maryland State government and legislative processes, is strongly preferred. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accessibility, equity, person-centered engagement, public trust, and continuous improvement.

SELECTION PROCESS

This is a Management Service position and serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority. A resume must be uploaded to the application. Applicants who meet the minimum (and selective) qualifications will be included in further evaluation. The evaluation may be a rating of your application based on your education, training and experience as they relate to the requirements of the position. Therefore, it is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all related education, experience, dates and hours of work. Clearly indicate your college degree and major on your application, if applicable. For education obtained outside the U.S., any job offer will be contingent on the candidate providing an evaluation for equivalency by a foreign credential evaluation service prior to starting employment (and may be requested prior to interview). Complete applications must be submitted by the closing date. Information submitted after this date will not be added. Incorrect application forms will not be accepted. Candidates may remain on the certified eligible list for a period of at least one year. The resulting certified eligible list for this recruitment may be used for similar positions in this or other State agencies.

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application (and supplemental questionnaire) may be submitted to MDH, Recruitment and Selection Division, 201 W. Preston St., Room 114-B, Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received by 5 pm, close of business, on the closing date for the recruitment, no postmarks will be accepted. If additional information is required, the preferred method is to upload. If you are unable to upload, please fax the requested information to 410-333-5689. Only additional materials that are required will be accepted for this recruitment. All additional information must be received by the closing date and time. For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the MDH Recruitment and Selection Division at 410-767-1251. If you are having difficulty with your user account or have general questions about the online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850 or Application.Help@maryland.gov. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling: 410-767-1251 or MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.