Communications Specialist

The Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) is seeking a talented and creative Communications Specialist to join the Executive Administration & Communications Team. This role is a vital part of the Communications function within the Executive Office of Aging and Independence. This individual reports directly to the Chief of Staff and Communications Officer and will provide support in a variety of communications functions, such as media relations, content creation, social media, website accessibility and other related tasks as needed.

This role serves as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and will coordinate with program staff to develop accurate, mission-aligned responses. The Communications Specialist will serve as a trusted partner with senior leadership in the creation of talking points, remarks, and other materials for public appearances and speaking engagements. The role designs all external facing materials for the agency and ensure compliance for various accessibility standards for the Commonwealth.

Duties and Responsibilities:

(These duties are a general summary and not all-inclusive)

Media Relations

* Collaborate with Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) communications team to obtain necessary approvals.

* Build and maintain relationships with reporters; proactively pitch positive stories and agency initiatives.

* Draft, edit, and distribute press releases and media statements.

Content Development and Editorial Oversight

* Write, edit, and proofread a wide range of agency materials, including reports, presentations, and external communications.

* Ensure consistency in messaging, tone, and branding across all communications.

Design and Brand Management

* Design external-facing materials, including flyers, social media graphics, and annual reports.

* Review and provide feedback on staff presentations and materials to ensure alignment with agency branding and communication standards.

* Offer guidance and support to staff on design best practices.

Social Media Management

* Manage the agency's social media accounts (Facebook, X, Linked In), including content creation, scheduling, and performance monitoring.

* Develop engaging posts and visual content to promote agency initiatives and announcements.

Newsletter Management & Website Management

* Collect content from internal and external partners and produce a bi-monthly network newsletter using Constant Contact.

* Update and maintain agency content on Mass.gov, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and accessibility.

Accessibility and Campaign Support

* Support the Chief Communications Officer digital accessibility compliance efforts across communications materials and platforms.

* Assist with planning and execution of paid marketing and public awareness campaigns.

Required Qualifications:

* Knowledge of the principles and practices of human resource management including behavioral techniques, planning, forecasting, organizational development, etc.

* Knowledge of work simplification methods.

* Knowledge of the methods used in the preparation of charts, graphs and tables.

* Ability to understand, explain and apply the laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, etc. governing assigned unit activities.

* Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of data, to draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations.

* Ability to gather information by examining records and documents and by questioning individuals.

* Ability to assemble items of information in accordance with established procedures.

* Ability to determine proper format and procedure for assembling items of information.

* Ability to give written and oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner.

* Ability to communicate effectively in oral expression.

* Ability to supervise, including planning and assigning work according to the nature of the job to be accomplished, the capabilities of subordinates and available resources; controlling work through periodic reviews and/or evaluations; determining subordinates' training needs and providing or arranging for such training; motivating subordinates to work effectively; determining the need for disciplinary action and either recommending or initiating disciplinary action.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, specifications, standards and guidelines governing assigned unit activities.

* Knowledge of AGE's organizational structure and functions including its programs, language, audiences and existing marketing campaigns.

* Demonstrable design and editing skills including Adobe Suite.

* Familiarity with Canva, Constant, website management, media relations management and social media management.

Agency Mission

The Executive Office of Aging & Independence provides quality aging-related resources, tools, and support through a network of regional non-profit agencies and municipal agencies across the state. The Agency partners with providers, caregivers, and the 1.7 million older adults in…