Description

Tom Steyer is a Democrat running for Governor of California in 2026 to tackle the single biggest challenge we face as a state: the Californians who built this state and make it run can’t afford to live in California anymore. Tom Steyer has a long record of standing up to powerful corporations—and winning—and now he’s running for governor to hold the companies driving up prices accountable, make them pay their fair share, and make California affordable again. We are building a statewide movement focused on lowering costs, expanding access to housing, reducing energy bills, and strengthening public education. If you’re driven by economic justice, motivated by big fights that matter, and eager to help build a campaign that puts people—not corporations—at the center of California’s future, join us.

The Communications Director leads all aspects of the campaign’s press strategy, overseeing press relationships, earned media, and rapid response to advance campaign priorities. They will work closely with the lead strategist and message team to ensure message discipline across all media channels. The Communications Director will collaborate closely with the political, digital, and policy teams to maintain consistency and alignment in all external communications. The ideal candidate is a clear, strategic communicator who can craft compelling messages while staying adaptable under fast-moving conditions. They combine strong media relations skills with sound judgment to maintain message discipline. 

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive earned media and communications strategies in collaboration with the Campaign Manager and senior leadership.
• Serve as the campaign’s primary media contact, managing all interactions with reporters and media outlets.
• Build and maintain relationships with key journalists, editors, and producers across print, television, radio, and digital platforms.
• Oversee message development, talking points, press releases, op-eds, and briefing materials for the Principal and surrogates.
• Prepare and staff the Principal for interviews, media appearances, and press events.
• Direct the campaign’s rapid response operation, ensuring timely and strategic engagement with breaking news and opposition activity.
• Coordinate closely with the digital team to ensure message consistency across earned and owned channels.
• Manage press logistics for major events, announcements, and travel.
• Monitor media coverage, track key narratives, and brief senior leadership on emerging opportunities or risks.
• May supervise communications staff, consultants, and/or regional press leads as the campaign scales.

Qualifications, knowledge, and skills:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in political or advocacy communications, or at least 3 election cycles of experience in electoral campaigns or legislative offices.
• On the record experience, proven ability to serve as a campaign spokesperson. 
• Deep understanding of California’s media and political landscape.
• Established relationships with California media required.
• Proven track record of managing press relations, message development, and strategic media engagement in California
• Experience developing and executing press strategy, message development, and rapid response for candidates or elected officials in California.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Collaborative, team-driven approach with the ability to balance short-term needs and long-term strategy.
• Strong working knowledge of Google Workspace, and media monitoring tools.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise discretion, sound judgment, and composure in high-pressure situations.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.