Title: Communications Strategist (Hybrid Work Schedule)

State Role Title: Communications Specialist

Hiring Range: $70,454

Pay Band: UG

Agency: Virginia Retirement System

Location: Richmond, Virginia

Agency Website: varetire.org

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The communications strategist writes and edits content targeting employers, members and retirees across VRS platforms including digital and print newsletters, the website, social media, video and campaigns. The communications strategist will also serve as the lead reporter and editor for Member News (quarterly) and Retiree News (semiannual).This role supports agency initiatives, legislative mandates and ongoing communication needs by translating policies, statutory requirements and benefit information into clear, accessible messaging tailored to VRS audiences.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Works with communications team to identify strategic messaging goals and ensure adherence to style and brand guidelines.
• Provides strategic and digital communications guidance to internal departments.
• Analyzes complex topics, such as statutory requirements, policies and procedure directives, and translates them into clear written and visual content for VRS audiences.
• Develops communication strategies and supporting tactics for multiple platforms.
• Writes, edits and proofreads content, following Associated Press Style, as well as agency style and standards.
• Conducts research, sets measurement goals, evaluates outcomes and interprets analytics.
• Manages production schedules and serves as editor for Member News (quarterly) and Retiree News (semiannual).
• Develops expertise in the VRS benefits system to ensure accuracy in all communications.
• Coordinates creative briefs and provides art direction for graphic designers.
• Proactively builds strategic relationships with subject matter experts and agency leadership; serves as contact for outside contractors and vendors.
• Oversees content review processes, ensuring timely and accurate approvals.
• Monitors trends across retirement systems and relevant industry publications.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mass communications, public relations, journalism or closely related field, required; an equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered.
• Four years of demonstrated communications experience; including experience in digital communications.
• Experience writing video scripts, executing email campaigns, writing and producing newsletters and managing social media.
• Demonstrated experience writing, editing and proofreading, conforming to Associated Press Style.
• Proficiency with MS Office software, large databases, desktop publishing technology, email software and analytical tools.
• Ability to travel in-state; must possess a valid Driver’s license in good standing.
• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, or other similar program, to produce digital and print content.

Additional Considerations

• Experience with Office 365 and SharePoint Online, preferred.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

*VRS is unable to provide sponsorship, for this position*

Currently, this position has a hybrid work schedule - requiring work in the office three days per week (T, W, TH), and work remotely two days per week (M, F). The selected candidate MUST be able to work in the office any day of the week, as required by the manager.

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Email: careers@varetire.org

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.