Communications Director

The Vermont Democratic Party (VDP) is seeking a highly skilled Communications Director to lead the party’s communications strategy. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the political conversation in one of the most engaged states in the country while working alongside Democratic leaders, grassroots organizers, and national partners to defend Democratic values and build long-term political power in Vermont. The Communications Director will oversee both external and internal communications and play a key role in shaping the party’s public voice.

The Communications Director will report to the Executive Director and work closely with party staff, elected officials, candidates, and Democratic partners. 

This position is full-time and based in Vermont, with travel throughout the state as needed. This is an election cycle position expected to conclude in November 2026, though the role may be extended depending on budget and organizational needs.

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About the Role

The Communications Director is a senior leadership position responsible for designing, managing, and executing a comprehensive communications strategy for the Vermont Democratic Party (VDP). This role will oversee messaging, media relations, rapid response, and digital communications to ensure the party communicates clearly, effectively, and strategically across Vermont. They will elevate Democratic priorities, respond to political developments, and expand the party’s reach through earned media, digital platforms, and coordinated messaging.

Our Communications Director must be a goal-oriented, metrics-driven self-starter with a robust work ethic who is willing to work weekends and evenings in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, with a high level of attention to detail.

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Responsibilities:

• Media Relations & Press Management

  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with Vermont reporters, editors, and media outlets.

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for all incoming press inquiries to the Vermont Democratic Party.

  • Pitch stories, coordinate interviews, and secure earned media opportunities for the party and Democratic leaders.

  • Draft and distribute press releases, statements, media advisories, and other press materials.

  • Monitor media coverage and political developments to inform messaging and strategy.

• Messaging & Rapid Response

  • Develop and execute strategic messaging to advance Democratic priorities in Vermont.

  • Lead rapid response efforts related to state and national political developments impacting Vermont.

  • Draft talking points, op-eds, speeches, and public statements for party leadership.

  • Coordinate messaging with Democratic elected officials, campaigns, and partners when appropriate.

• Digital & Social Media Communications

  • Oversee and manage the Vermont Democratic Party’s social media presence and digital messaging.

  • Collaborate with staff and consultants to develop engaging digital content that expands the party’s reach.

  • Ensure consistent messaging across press, social media, email communications, and other platforms.

  • Provide strategic guidance on digital communications campaigns.

• Candidate & Surrogate Support

  • Provide communications guidance and media preparation for Democratic candidates, staff, and surrogates.

  • Assist with media training and interview preparation.

  • Support communications strategies that help Democratic candidates communicate effectively with voters.

• Communications Planning & Coordination

  • Work with the Executive Director to develop and execute long-term communications strategies.

  • Coordinate communications efforts across departments to ensure consistency and strategic alignment.

• Miscellaneous Duties

  • Assist with communications planning for party events, press conferences, and public programs.

  • Collaborate with national and state partners to amplify messaging and share resources.

  • Assist with Montpelier office management and clerical upkeep.

• Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

​Location Requirements:

Statewide travel is expected.

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Qualifications:

• 2+ years of experience in communications, political campaigns, government, or a related field.

• Experience working with press and managing media relations.

• Strong understanding of political communications, rapid response, and message development.

• Experience managing digital and social media communications.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and compelling messaging.

• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.

• Strong commitment to Democratic values and political change.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• Familiarity with Vermont politics is preferred but not required.

• Graphic design or digital content creation experience is a plus.

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Salary:

​This is a full-time position that offers a generous benefits package and competitive salary commensurate with experience.

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How to Apply:

Please send your cover letter, resume, and 3-4 professional references to May Hanlon, Executive Director of the Vermont Democratic Party at mhanlon@vtdemocrats.org with “Communications Director - [Last Name]” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

This position is a part of the Vermont Democratic Party employees' bargaining unit, represented by USW Amalgamated Local #4. 

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The Vermont Democratic Party is an equal opportunity employer and it is our policy and our core value to recruit, hire, train, promote and administer any and all personnel actions without regard to sex, race, age, color, creed, national origin, religion, economic status, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or expression, ethnic identity or physical disability, or any other legally protected basis.