move detroit forward & join our team
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results.
We’ve sorted our open positions by different policy areas and themes that reflect the new Administrations priorities. Find the category that best reflects your experience and areas of interest to view the available positions.
Social Media Manager - Office of the Mayor
Serves as a core member of the Mayor’s Communications team and manages all social media content, strategy, and day-to-day digital engagement for the Office of the Mayor.
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor leads Detroit’s strategy to build a government that is transparent, resident-centered, and connected directly to the people it serves. Under Mayor-Elect Sheffield, the administration is committed to authentic storytelling, inclusive engagement, and digital communication that reflects the lived experiences, priorities, and leadership of Detroiters. The Communications team manages the Mayor’s public voice across all platforms, ensuring Detroit residents receive timely, accurate, and accessible information about city initiatives, neighborhood investments, policy changes, and opportunities to get involved. The team works closely with every department, community-based organizations, and city leadership to elevate resident voices and strengthen trust between Detroiters and their government.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Social Media Manager serves as a core member of the Mayor’s Communications team and manages all social media content, strategy, and day-to-day digital engagement for the Office of the Mayor. Reporting to the Director of Communications, this role ensures the Mayor’s platforms reflect a clear, consistent, resident-focused voice that aligns with the priorities of the Sheffield administration. The Social Media Manager is responsible for developing content, producing real-time updates, uplifting community stories, and ensuring that Detroiters have direct access to information that impacts their neighborhoods and daily lives. This role requires exceptional judgment, fast-paced execution, and the ability to translate complex policies into accessible messaging. Two positions will support coverage seven days a week across all mayoral and citywide channels.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Advance the administration’s commitment to transparent, resident-centered communication
Increase awareness of city services, programs, and investments across Detroit’s neighborhoods
Elevate youth voice, community stories, and resident leadership
Support public safety, housing, economic mobility, and neighborhood revitalization messaging
Strengthen digital engagement for key initiatives in health, human services, education, and small business growth
Ensure inclusive communication practices that reach multilingual, immigrant, disability, senior, and digitally underserved communities
Support rapid-response messaging during emergencies, weather events, and public-safety incidents
Reinforce the Mayor’s key priorities and policy agenda through cohesive digital storytelling
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Develop, manage, and execute the Mayor’s social media strategy across all platforms
Create daily written, visual, and multimedia content that communicates city priorities clearly and creatively
Provide real-time event coverage including community visits, press conferences, neighborhood engagements, and major city announcements
Translate policy, speeches, and city initiatives into accessible digital messaging for Detroit residents
Coordinate with the Director of Communications, Executive Communications Specialist, and Digital & Creative Director to ensure messaging alignment
Produce content calendars aligned with key policy deadlines, events, announcements, and citywide campaigns
Monitor analytics and engagement to refine content performance and improve reach
Respond to real-time developments with rapid, responsible, and strategic messaging
Work with city departments to elevate service updates, opportunities, resources, and resident impacts
Support crisis communications and emergency response messaging
Ensure brand consistency and protect the Mayor’s voice, identity, and public-facing presence
Maintain organized digital asset libraries, archiving content for future use
Coordinate content needs with videographers, photographers, designers, and cross-department partners
Stay informed about Detroit events, community issues, and resident priorities to shape relevant content
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, digital media, marketing, public relations, or related field
Three or more years of experience in social media management, digital storytelling, or political/campaign communications
Strong writing, visual storytelling, and digital communication skills
Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality content in fast-paced, real-time environments
Experience managing official public-sector or executive social media accounts preferred
Understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, civic landscape, culture, and community dynamics
Skill in social media analytics, platform tools, and content planning
Ability to translate complex policy into accessible, community-friendly messaging
Experience working with diverse audiences, including youth, immigrant, disability, senior, and grassroots communities
Strong judgment, discretion, and ability to work under pressure
Evening, weekend, and flexible scheduling required based on Mayor’s calendar and emerging events
Rate of Pay: $60,000 – $80,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
Executive Communications Specialist
Develops all major speeches, prepared remarks, talking points, written communications, and message frameworks for the Mayor.
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of the Mayor is the executive center of Detroit’s government, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s agenda, coordinating major initiatives, and maintaining trusted communication with residents. The Executive Communications Specialist (Speechwriter) is a central member of the Communications & Public Affairs team, responsible for crafting the Mayor’s voice, message, and narrative across speeches, remarks, written statements, and long-form storytelling. This role ensures that every public communication reflects Detroit’s values, priorities, and diverse communities.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Executive Communications Specialist (Speechwriter) develops all major speeches, prepared remarks, talking points, written communications, and message frameworks for the Mayor. The role requires exceptional writing ability, sound political judgment, and the capacity to translate complex ideas, policy priorities, resident experiences, and community stories into clear and compelling language.
This position works closely with the Mayor, Chief of Staff, Director of Communications, policy teams, and neighborhood engagement staff to ensure every speech is rooted in Detroit’s lived experience and aligned with the Mayor’s strategic goals. The Executive Communications Specialist also identifies storytelling opportunities, researches policy and community issues, prepares briefing materials, and supports the Mayor’s presence across internal and external engagements.
This position is a peer to the Digital & Creative Director and partners closely with that role to ensure aligned messaging, shared themes, and narrative consistency across all digital, written, and spoken channels.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Amplifying the Mayor’s voice in ways that reflect her commitment to equity, community healing, neighborhood revitalization, and inclusive growth.
Translating policy, community stories, and resident concerns into accessible speeches and remarks that speak directly to Detroiters.
Supporting major public addresses, including State of the City, major policy announcements, crisis communications, community forums, and neighborhood events.
Ensuring messages align with the Mayor’s priorities such as housing justice, economic opportunity, public safety rooted in dignity, environmental health, and youth empowerment.
Shaping a clear narrative that celebrates Detroit’s identity, its history, its resilience, and its path forward under the Sheffield administration.
Core responsibilities include:
Research and draft speeches, remarks, talking points, statements, op-eds, and written material for the Mayor.
Develop message frameworks and narrative strategy for major policy initiatives and community-centered programs.
Partner with policy staff and department leaders to translate complex information into accessible, inspiring, and resident-centered language.
Collaborate with the Digital & Creative Director to adapt speeches into multimedia content and ensure narrative consistency across platforms.
Prepare briefing binders, event background, audience insights, and context documents for the Mayor.
Identify opportunities for storytelling and develop narratives that elevate resident voices, neighborhood experiences, and community-led impact.
Support rehearsal, delivery preparation, and on-site coordination to ensure the Mayor is fully prepared for every speech and public appearance.
Review and revise drafts in collaboration with senior advisors, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with the administration’s messaging.
Maintain an organized archive of speeches, talking points, and recurring message frameworks.
Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on the Mayor’s schedule and public-facing responsibilities.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Public Policy, Journalism, Political Science, or a closely related field.
Three to five years of experience writing speeches or senior-level communications for elected officials, public-sector executives, or comparable high-profile leaders.
Exceptional writing ability, including voice adaptation, storytelling, and translating complex policy into clear and engaging language.
Experience conducting research, synthesizing data, and framing issues for broad audiences.
Strong political judgment, discretion, and ability to manage sensitive or time-critical information.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with senior leadership, communications teams, policy staff, and community partners.
Deep familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, culture, history, and civic landscape strongly preferred.
Experience working in high-pressure, fast-paced executive environments or political settings.
Commitment to the Mayor’s values of equity, community empowerment, transparency, and resident-centered governance.
Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,889 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
Director of Advance
Serves as the Mayor’s chief architect of event strategy, logistics, and on-the-ground execution, overseeing the full lifecycle of the Mayor’s public engagements
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Mayor’s Office oversees the executive leadership, policy direction, and day-to-day operations of City government, ensuring that Detroiters experience responsive, people-centered service wherever they live and work. Within this structure, the Advance Office plays a critical role in bringing the Mayor’s priorities directly to the community by ensuring that all events, engagements, neighborhood visits, press announcements, and special initiatives are executed with precision, dignity, and intentionality. The Advance function ensures that every public-facing moment—large or small—reflects Detroit’s values, centers resident experience, and helps the Mayor stay connected to the people driving the city’s progress.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Advance serves as the Mayor’s chief architect of event strategy, logistics, and on-the-ground execution, overseeing the full lifecycle of the Mayor’s public engagements. This leader manages all advance planning for neighborhood events, policy rollouts, community celebrations, press opportunities, and major announcements, while coordinating closely with security, communications, scheduling, operations, and departmental partners. The Director ensures that every event is well-organized, mission-aligned, sensitive to community context, and strategically designed to amplify the Mayor’s agenda. This role requires exceptional project management, political acumen, and deep understanding of Detroit’s communities so the Mayor can show up prepared, safe, supported, and connected to residents. The Director of Advance manages a team of advance staff and event coordinators and serves as the central operational link between the Mayor’s priorities and the public-facing moments that bring those priorities to life.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Ensuring the Mayor’s engagement strategy reflects resident-centered governance and strengthens visibility across all neighborhoods
Supporting the Mayor’s commitment to show up directly in communities—at block clubs, senior buildings, schools, small businesses, faith institutions, and neighborhood corridors
Coordinating events that highlight the Administration’s work in housing, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, public safety, youth programs, and senior services
Ensuring that engagements lift up community voices and demonstrate transparency, accountability, and responsiveness
Building relationships with community groups, local partners, neighborhood organizations, and resident leaders to support effective event planning and outreach
Elevating Detroiters’ stories and lived experiences through thoughtful event design that reflects the city’s diversity and vibrancy
Integrating the Mayor’s strategic communication, safety, and logistics plans into all events to maintain professionalism, impact, and seamless execution
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Lead the planning, design, and execution of all events, engagements, announcements, neighborhood visits, and public appearances for the Mayor
Manage the full Advance team and oversee staff assignments, workflows, timelines, and event operations
Coordinate with the Executive Scheduler, Communications team, Public Safety/Security Detail, and key departments to ensure the Mayor’s schedule, safety, and preparation needs are fully supported
Conduct site visits, develop run-of-show documents, prepare logistical plans, and coordinate local stakeholders in advance of events
Ensure briefing materials, talking points, and event background documents are delivered accurately and on time in collaboration with Communications and Policy teams
Establish on-site procedures for crowd flow, staging, seating, technical support, accessibility needs, and press logistics
Serve as the primary liaison to community organizations, neighborhood groups, businesses, faith institutions, and partner agencies involved in event hosting
Develop standardized systems, checklists, and protocols to ensure consistency and excellence in Advance operations
Direct staff in managing event outreach, community invitations, and audience engagement plans
Partner with the Mayor’s security detail to ensure safety protocols are followed and risk assessments are integrated into planning
Support emergency adjustments, rapid-response events, or last-minute agenda shifts with calm, strategic decision-making
Oversee event debriefs, continuous improvement processes, and high-quality documentation
Represent the Mayor’s Office in cross-departmental coordination related to logistics, planning, and neighborhood-level engagement strategies
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, communications, political science, event management, or related field
At least five years of experience in political advance work, high-level event management, executive operations, campaign advance, or government scheduling
Experience working for an elected official or senior executive preferred
Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders, tight timelines, and high visibility
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community organizations, civic landscape, and cultural networks
Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and interpersonal skills
Ability to work collaboratively with Communications, Scheduling, Security, and Policy teams
Experience managing staff in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Strong judgment, discretion, and ability to manage sensitive or confidential information
Willingness and ability to work evenings, weekends, and irregular hours based on the Mayor’s schedule
Commitment to equity, community voice, dignity, and resident-centered public service
Rate of Pay: $105,000 - $125,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
Director of Communications - Mayor’s Office
Serves as the Mayor’s chief communications strategist and leads all executive, digital, creative, and public-affairs functions for the administration.
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Mayor’s Office Communications team serves as the central hub for how the City’s chief executive communicates with residents, partners, media, and the broader public. The office is responsible for ensuring Detroiters receive clear, timely, accessible information about city programs, major initiatives, community investments, and the Mayor’s priorities. Under the Sheffield Administration, the Communications Office plays a critical role in building public trust, strengthening transparency, celebrating community stories, and demonstrating how government delivers for Detroiters in real time. The office oversees executive communications, digital strategy, media relations, visual storytelling, and brand identity for the Mayor, ensuring that every message reflects Detroit’s values, neighborhoods, and commitment to equity and resident-centered governance.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Communications serves as the Mayor’s chief communications strategist and leads all executive, digital, creative, and public-affairs functions for the administration. The Director oversees the work of the Executive Communications Specialist (speechwriter), Digital & Creative Director, Videographer, and Public Relations Manager, ensuring that messaging is aligned, proactive, strategic, and rooted in the lived experiences of Detroiters. The role is responsible for shaping the Mayor’s voice, narrative, and public-facing identity across speeches, media interactions, digital platforms, community events, and major announcements. This position requires exceptional political judgment, strong editorial and brand discipline, deep understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, and the ability to manage rapid-response communications while advancing long-term storytelling. The Director ensures that the Mayor is represented with clarity, authenticity, and integrity, and that residents are kept informed, engaged, and connected to their local government.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Advance a communications strategy that reflects the Mayor’s resident-centered, equity-driven governing philosophy
Ensure communications amplify the administration’s policy agenda across housing, economic opportunity, neighborhood development, public safety, and family support
Strengthen transparency and public trust by delivering accurate, timely, accessible information to Detroiters
Elevate resident stories, community organizations, and neighborhood accomplishments in all citywide messaging
Ensure communications reflect Detroit’s diversity, cultural richness, and neighborhood identities
Support public safety messaging rooted in dignity, prevention, and community well-being
Promote housing and affordability initiatives that reflect the Mayor’s commitment to housing as a human right
Highlight investments that strengthen families, seniors, youth, and vulnerable residents
Ensure major policy rollouts include clear messaging, multimedia storytelling, and community-informed communication strategies
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Develop and lead a comprehensive communications strategy for the Mayor and the administration
Oversee executive communications, digital content, creative assets, media relations, and public-affairs messaging
Manage and supervise the Executive Communications Specialist, Digital & Creative Director, Videographer, and Public Relations Manager
Shape and protect the Mayor’s voice, narrative, and public presence across speeches, digital platforms, and media
Review, approve, and refine all official messages, statements, remarks, and creative assets
Coordinate with senior advisors, cabinet members, and policy leads to communicate major initiatives with clarity and accuracy
Develop and implement strategic plans for crisis communications, rapid response, and emerging issues
Ensure communications are accessible, culturally competent, and tailored to Detroit’s neighborhoods and communities
Partner with the Digital & Creative Director to maintain a unified brand identity for the Mayor
Strengthen relationships with local, regional, and national media
Support content and briefing materials that prepare the Mayor for public appearances, interviews, and major speeches
Develop long-term storytelling initiatives that lift up Detroit’s progress and resident-centered successes
Establish performance metrics to track engagement, reach, and community understanding
Represent the Communications Office in cross-departmental meetings and ensure strong coordination across city agencies
Qualifications:
Significant leadership experience in executive communications, public affairs, political communications, or journalism
Demonstrated ability to manage communications for a high-profile executive, elected official, or public-sector leader
Exceptional writing, editing, narrative development, and messaging skills
Strong political judgment, discretion, and crisis-communications experience
Experience overseeing creative teams, digital platforms, and multimedia content development
Commitment to equity, community voice, transparency, and resident-centered storytelling
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, history, culture, and civic landscape
Ability to build strong relationships with community stakeholders, media outlets, and cross-sector partners
Experience developing communications around major policy issues including housing, economic development, public safety, and community well-being
Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends based on the Mayor’s schedule
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred
Detroit-based candidates or those with deep knowledge of Detroit’s communities are strongly encouraged to apply
Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,888 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
Director of Media Services
Leads the full scope of the Media Services Division and ensuring Detroiters receive clear, compelling, and accessible information about their government.
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Office of Media Services is Detroit’s citywide hub for public broadcasting, digital storytelling, and resident-facing information. The division ensures that Detroiters have timely, accessible, engaging content that highlights government services, celebrates neighborhood progress, and strengthens trust between residents and their city. Media Services manages government-access television, digital media content, event documentation, and the city’s primary multimedia production capabilities. Under Mayor Sheffield’s administration, Media Services plays a transformational role—leveraging Detroit’s creativity, cultural identity, and storytelling power to create a more informed, connected, and civically engaged city. The office works closely with the Mayor’s communications team, city departments, community leaders, and partners across Detroit’s neighborhoods to advance a narrative rooted in transparency, equity, and resident-centered governance.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Director of Media Services is responsible for leading the full scope of the Media Services Division and ensuring Detroiters receive clear, compelling, and accessible information about their government. Reporting to the Senior Director of Communications, the Director oversees all broadcast operations, digital content production, creative strategy, staff supervision, and workflow management for the city’s multimedia ecosystem. This leader sets the creative vision for citywide communication, ensures alignment with the Mayor’s priorities, and guides a high-performing multimedia team—including videographers, editors, producers, digital content staff, and the Deputy Director. The role requires a visionary storyteller with strong operational management skills, the ability to work in fast-paced environments, and a commitment to advancing the Sheffield Administration’s values of transparency, dignity-centered communication, and community empowerment through modern, inclusive media.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Elevate a citywide transparency agenda through high-quality digital and broadcast content
Strengthen resident access to information using modern storytelling tools and community-centered communication
Amplify the Sheffield Administration’s priorities—housing, neighborhood revitalization, economic mobility, public health, and safety—across all media platforms
Ensure Detroit’s diverse cultural identities and neighborhood voices are represented authentically and consistently
Modernize broadcasting, production workflows, and digital communication infrastructure
Increase public understanding of city services and civic opportunities through accessible media
Support the Mayor’s narrative strategy by producing content that uplifts residents, celebrates community progress, and strengthens trust in government
This description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive; duties, responsibilities, and activities may be modified at the discretion of the Mayor.
Core responsibilities include:
Lead all operations, creative strategy, and staff management for the Media Services Division
Set the vision for broadcast and digital content that reflects Detroit’s communities, culture, and the Mayor’s priorities
Oversee production of video, photography, graphics, livestreams, and multimedia content for government-access television and digital channels
Ensure alignment with the Mayor’s messaging priorities by collaborating closely with the Director of Communications and the Mayor’s senior team
Manage daily workflows, production calendars, staffing assignments, and content approvals across multiple media platforms
Develop and enforce standards for content quality, accessibility, branding, and inclusive communication
Supervise creative and technical personnel, including videographers, editors, producers, and digital content teams
Direct planning and logistics for event coverage, press conferences, major announcements, neighborhood engagements, and public forums
Oversee the operation and maintenance of production facilities, equipment, and digital archives
Strengthen operational efficiency through updated systems, workflow improvements, and technology modernization
Represent the Media Services Division in strategic planning meetings, interdepartmental collaborations, and public-facing communications work
Build partnerships with community organizations, media outlets, creative professionals, and cultural institutions to expand storytelling reach
Ensure all content supports Detroit's goal of building trust, uplifting resident stories, and showcasing government accessibility
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in communications, media production, journalism, public relations, film, or a related field preferred
Seven or more years of experience in multimedia production, digital strategy, broadcast management, or public-sector communications
Demonstrated leadership experience managing creative or technical teams in fast-paced environments
Expert proficiency in video production, editing software, digital media tools, and broadcast operations
Exceptional storytelling, writing, editing, and communication skills
Experience developing large-scale media strategies or managing public-facing digital platforms
Strong understanding of Detroit’s neighborhoods, community dynamics, and cultural landscape preferred
Ability to collaborate with senior government officials, community partners, and diverse stakeholders
Strong organizational and project-management skills, with experience overseeing multiple deadlines
Commitment to equity, accessibility, resident-centered communication, and inclusive representation
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and nontraditional hours for events, productions, and urgent communications needs
Rate of Pay: $100,000– $180,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.
Digital and Creative Director
The Mayor’s dedicated creative strategist, responsible for shaping every aspect of her digital storytelling and public-facing image.
ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD ADMINISTRATION
Detroit is entering a historic new chapter under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield, the city’s first woman to serve as Mayor. Elected with a decisive mandate, Mayor-Elect Sheffield brings a steady, community-rooted approach to governing—one focused on listening to residents, healing long-standing divides, and delivering meaningful improvements in daily life across every neighborhood. She will take office on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to building a city that lifts every family and expands opportunity for all.
As she forms her administration, Mayor-Elect Sheffield is assembling a talented, diverse team of leaders who bring deep expertise, lived experience, and the courage to put forward bold, innovative ideas that move Detroit forward. Her team will drive a City government grounded in collaboration, equity, transparency, and results. The Sheffield Administration seeks mission-driven individuals who are ready to serve, ready to build, and ready to help shape Detroit’s future.
ABOUT THE OFFICE
The Mayor’s Office is the executive nerve center of Detroit’s government, responsible for advancing the Mayor’s vision, shaping the public narrative, and maintaining direct lines of communication with residents. Within this office, the Digital & Creative Director plays a singular role: creating and managing all digital content that represents the Mayor—her voice, her priorities, her leadership, and her connection to the people of Detroit.
This position operates entirely within the Mayor’s communications ecosystem, separate from department-level public information. The role exists to ensure that the Mayor’s digital presence is authentic, modern, accessible, and deeply reflective of her community-first leadership style.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Digital & Creative Director is the Mayor’s dedicated creative strategist, responsible for shaping every aspect of her digital storytelling and public-facing image. This leader develops, produces, and manages all multimedia content that represents the Mayor—across platforms, formats, and audiences.
Operating with a high degree of independence, judgment, and creative rigor, the Director captures the Mayor’s day-to-day work, speech, priorities, and neighborhood presence, turning them into compelling narratives that resonate with Detroiters. The role requires speed, accuracy, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to producing high-quality digital work that reflects the Mayor’s values and strengthens her relationship with residents.
The Director works closely with the Mayor, Chief of Staff, senior communications staff, and advance/scheduling teams to ensure content is strategically aligned, timely, and seamlessly integrated into the Mayor’s overall communications strategy.
This role will drive the administration’s priorities, including:
Developing a digital strategy that amplifies the Mayor’s message of equity, community healing, and resident-centered leadership.
Building a strong, distinct personal brand for the Mayor that reflects her values, authenticity, and Detroit-first leadership style.
Creating content that highlights the Mayor’s work in neighborhoods, her presence with residents, and her commitment to listening and delivering.
Making high-quality digital information accessible to residents across platforms and devices.
Elevating community voices, grassroots stories, and neighborhood experiences that reflect Detroit’s resilience and creativity.
Ensuring the Mayor’s digital communication is timely, consistent, and fully aligned with her policy agenda.
Using data, analytics, and audience insights to ensure content is impactful, relevant, and built around resident engagement.
Supporting a modern, transparent, interactive digital presence that strengthens trust between the Mayor and the people of Detroit.
Core responsibilities include:
Lead all digital content creation for the Mayor, including photography, videography, graphics, captions, writing, and editing.
Manage all official social-media platforms operated in the Mayor’s name and oversee content calendars and posting strategies.
Develop a unique, coherent visual identity and brand voice exclusively for the Mayor.
Provide real-time coverage at events, community meetings, press conferences, and neighborhood engagements.
Translate the Mayor’s policies, speeches, and values into compelling digital narratives.
Produce signature content series that highlight resident stories, neighborhood impact, and community-based leadership.
Work closely with communications, scheduling, and advance teams to ensure digital content aligns with upcoming events, priorities, and messaging needs.
Use analytics to refine content strategy and strengthen engagement across platforms.
Manage creative workflows, including approvals, revisions, archiving, and content organization.
Oversee outside creative collaborators as needed and ensure all work meets the Mayor’s brand and quality standards.
Ensure the Mayor’s online presence is modern, accurate, consistent, and deeply rooted in Detroit’s culture, communities, and stories.
Work extended and flexible hours based on the Mayor’s schedule.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Digital Media, Graphic Design, Marketing, Film, or a related field
3–5+ years of experience in digital content creation, social media management, multimedia production, or creative direction; political or campaign experience strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to shape the digital identity or brand of a public figure, elected official, or executive leader.
Strong portfolio showcasing multimedia storytelling across platforms.
Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, video-editing tools, photography, and design.
Ability to work quickly, capture content in fast-moving environments, and deliver high-quality work under pressure.
Excellent writing and copyediting skills tailored for social media and digital platforms.
Experience managing executive-level communication workflows, approvals, and rapid-response content needs.
Deep familiarity with Detroit’s neighborhoods, culture, history, and community landscape.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and nontraditional hours as required by the Mayor’s schedule.
Rate of Pay: $109,693 - $179,889 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: Our goal is to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce by providing generous healthcare and other benefits to eligible employees. Learn more about benefits for City of Detroit employees.
Equal Opportunity in Employment: The Sheffield Administration is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements listed above, we encourage you to apply if you believe you have the skills, experience, and expertise necessary to thrive in this role. The City of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds—including those historically underrepresented in municipal government—to apply.