The incumbent works in the Office of Congressional Affairs and Communications and supports the Supervisory Communications Specialists in the Office of Congressional Affairs and Communications working on a wide range of Agency communications strategies pertaining to key external stakeholders.

Duties

External Communications: The Senior Communications Specialist is responsible for informing the broad spectrum of individuals and groups affected by Agency programs of the benefits, services, or requirements of such programs. The incumbent is also responsible for assessing the degree of understanding or interest the public has in these programs and activities. The incumbent advises on the potential public reaction to proposed policies, and plans, organizes, and evaluates communications strategies, programs and materials. Senior Communications Specialists use a variety of communication methods in carrying out their mission to inform Agency publics about the programs, policies, and services that are of interest to or affect various groups or individuals. The incumbent will advise top Agency management officials on the possible public and media reactions to proposed policy statements and/or agency actions. The incumbent is responsible for the media relations, public relations, and related social media for FHFA. The Senior Communications Specialist works to implement the Agency's strategic communications plan under the direction of the Supervisory Communications Specialist. The incumbent develops media and press strategies and implements them via press releases and statements, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and the FHFA website. The incumbent will work with FHFA subject-matter experts across divisions and within the Office of the Director. The incumbent must have excellent written and oral communications skills, including the ability to work with journalists, provide them with news releases and other materials, learn audience needs, and pitch reporters with fresh ideas and in creative ways. The incumbent must also be able to help FHFA leadership and SMEs prepare for media interviews by providing them with background information on interviews and advising them on how to successfully interact with journalists. Written skills should include the ability to write and edit news releases, op-eds, letters to the editor, talking points, fact sheets, social media content, reports, newsletters, blogs, FHFA website content, and other material as assigned. The Senior Communications Specialist works with the Supervisory Communications Specialist to develop the processes and procedures required to effectively implement the Agency's communications strategy. The incumbent is accountable for the effective day-to-day operations and results of the media relations, public relations, and related social media activities - developing, implementing, and evaluating initiatives to ensure results are attained and quality standards are met. Additionally, the incumbent will have frequent contact with interagency communication partners, other external organizations, and internal customers, and will excel in work that involves project coordination, information sharing, and/or resolution of problems. The Senior Communications Specialist will participate in FHFA conferences as needed and may be required to represent FHFA at meetings or to supervise other staff. Generates original material for projects as needed and advises Agency subject matter experts regarding matters such as grammar, pagination, references, AP style, and distribution. The incumbent identifies communication needs and gaps and develops informational materials that inform appropriate audiences of the Agency's policies, programs, services, and activities. The incumbent plans, executes, and later evaluates the effectiveness of information and communication programs in furthering Agency goals. The incumbent collaborates with other components within the Agency, i to identify communication needs and gaps and develops informational materials that inform appropriate audiences of the Agency's policies, programs, services, and activities. The incumbent plans, executes, and later evaluates the effectiveness of information and communication programs in furthering Agency goals.

Requirements

• Status Candidates (Merit Promotion and VEOA Eligibles) and those eligible for other special hiring authorities.
• ***SF 50's are now required with the exception of current FHFA employees. Please include one showing your tenure and competitive status. You will not be considered without this.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service
• May be required to successfully complete a probationary period
• Only experience and education obtained by the closing date of this announcement will be considered.
• Status candidates must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade level).
• Suitable for Federal employment, as determined by background investigation
• Resume and supporting documents (See How To Apply)

Qualifications

Qualifying experience for the EL/GS-14 level includes one year of specialized experience at the equivalent to EL/GS-13 which is in or directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Qualifying experience for the EL/GS-13 level includes one year of specialized experience at the equivalent to EL/GS-12 which is in or directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Examples of required specialized experience include the following: Experience with media relations interaction, to include drafting appropriate media response to pending inquiries, coordinating interviews, and engaging the press to foster professional relationships, correct misinformation, and identify proactive opportunities to engage. Composed and performed editing/rewriting of external communications. Served as copy editor on multiple types of documents, editing for grammar and format. Applied knowledge of liaison principles, methods, practices and techniques, analytical methods, and interpersonal relations practices in order to develop and apply new approaches to external communication challenges. Applied knowledge of a wide range of communication principles, practices and strategies. Must meet the Selective Placement Factor: Applied knowledge of legislative, regulatory, or economic issues related to housing finance or regulation of financial institutions, to develop communication plans and programs to address an Agency's/Corporation's policies, programs, and activities. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

This job does not have an education qualification requirement.

Contacts

• Address FEDERAL HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY 400 7th Street, SW Washington, DC 20219 US
• Name: Janice Obeido
• Phone: (202) 649-3742
• Email: [email protected]