Communications Strategist

Job Description

The Communications Strategist leads and coordinates communications for Technology Solutions & Services (TS&S) within the Division of Operations, Finance, & Support (OF&S), strengthening the division's engagement with faculty, researchers, staff, students, and campus stakeholders. Serving as TS&S's primary communications partner, this role collaborates closely with divisional leadership, technical teams, and university partners to develop clear, timely, and coordinated messaging across the full range of TS&S priorities, including enterprise architecture, cybersecurity and digital trust, high-performance computing (HPC), artificial intelligence (AI), cloud infrastructure, and core IT services.

Serving as a bridge between complex technological advancements and the people they impact, the Communications Strategist translates technical concepts, operational changes, and system updates into accessible, audience-centered communications. Supporting both day-to-day operations, such as urgent incident communications and service advisories, and major strategic initiatives across the broader OF&S digital transformation, the role drives technology adoption, user confidence, and digital trust. The position also establishes consistent, sustainable communication practices that enhance transparency, break down operational silos, and highlight TS&S's vital role in advancing Rice University's academic, research, and administrative mission.

The ideal candidate is a proactive, strategic communicator with the ability to translate complex technical concepts, such as enterprise systems, cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and High-Performance Computing (HPC), into clear, engaging messaging for the campus community. They bring sound judgment and structure to communications, serving as a trusted advisor to technical leaders while guiding stakeholders through organizational change and technology adoption. Highly collaborative and curious, this individual brings a team-first attitude to navigating evolving priorities, breaking down operational silos, and building trust across a decentralized institution.

Special Instructions to Applicants: All interested applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in the Supporting Documents section of the application. We suggest the documents be in a PDF format to avoid formatting issues.

Workplace Requirements

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. This position requires a minimum of three days on campus each week. Additional on-site presence may be necessary based on job responsibilities and operational needs. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position, with a proposed salary range of $85,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience. *Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis.
• 3+ years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, writing, employee engagement, or other closely related field

Skills:

• Strong writing skills that demonstrate the ability to translate complex technological subjects into concise, accurate, and engaging content. Interest or experience in emerging tech (AI, HPC) is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in change management communications, helping organizations navigate transitions and adopt new behaviors with empathy.
• The confidence and skill to advise senior leaders and draft high-stakes communications on their behalf.
• A self-starter who thrives in evolving environments and can anticipate future trends to formulate actionable communication strategies.
• An eye for detail that ensures every message is polished, accurate, and aligned with Rice's mission and ethical standards.
• Commitment to digital accessibility, ensuring all content is inclusive and meets university standards.

Preferences

• 5 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, internal communications, or a closely related field
• Experience using content-management systems and communications platforms (CMS), including Drupal, Storyblok, HubSpot, SMS communication tools, digital-signage platforms, and intranet solutions
• Experience with collaboration and digital accessibility tools (e.g., Asana, Siteimprove).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google products (e.g., SharePoint, Google Analytics).
• Proficiency with basic graphic or content tools (e.g., Canva).
• Experience supporting content standards, including voice, tone, and style guidelines.

Essential Functions

• Strategic Leadership & Change Communications:
  • Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies that align with TS&S goals and the broader OF&S cultural and digital transformation.
  • Design and implement change management communication plans to support the adoption of new technologies, organizational structures, and operational models.
  • Serve as a strategic advisor to TS&S leadership, crafting executive messaging, town hall presentations, and thought-leadership content.
  • Create and manage a centralized communications calendar for TS&S, ensuring a consistent and intentional cadence of information.
  • Support urgent communications regarding system outages or security updates, ensuring clear and timely messaging during high-pressure situations.
• Technology Translation & Content Development:
  • Serve as the primary storyteller for TS&S, researching and writing compelling copy that translates complex topics (e.g., AI, HPC, and cybersecurity) into accessible, layperson's terms.
  • Produce high-quality content across diverse formats, including newsletters, articles, social media, and video.
  • Interview subject matter experts (engineers, developers, and researchers) to extract and highlight achievements that showcase TS&S's contribution to Rice's mission and strategic plan.
  • Partner with students, faculty, staff and researchers to understand their unique technical needs and craft stories that highlight how TS&S supports the academic mission.
• Digital Platform & Brand Management:
  • Manage the TS&S digital footprint, including the website, social media accounts, and email marketing platforms, ensuring content is accurate, timely, and user-centric.
  • Oversee the visual identity of TS&S communications, ensuring strict alignment with Rice University brand standards and OF&S division guidelines.
  • Utilize data and analytics to measure the effectiveness of communication campaigns, adjusting tactics to improve stakeholder engagement.
• Team Dynamics & Collaborative Spirit:
  • Act as a versatile resource within the OF&S communications team, providing surge support for divisional priorities outside of the TS&S portfolio when needed.
  • Actively seek out opportunities to integrate TS&S messaging with other OF&S units, ensuring a unified divisional voice and breaking down information silos.
  • Maintain a "continuous improvement" mindset by staying current on emerging communication trends while being equally willing to share expertise and learn from fellow team members.
  • Approach challenges with a team-first attitude, offering assistance to colleagues during projects and contributing to a culture of mutual accountability.
  • Demonstrate a deep interest in both the OF&S and the university's broader ecosystem and seek to understand how communication impacts the Rice community

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