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The Director of Alumni Advocacy Communications is a UMAA professional responsible for working with senior leaders to execute a visionary, enterprise-level communications strategy that elevates the reputation, influence, and engagement of the University of Minnesota Alumni Association. As a member of the UMAA's strategic advocacy team, this individual provides counsel and executes alumni communications, public relations, media relations, crisis response, and advocacy. The Director serves as a thought leader and trusted advisor to the Vice President of Strategic Advocacy and partners across University campuses and external networks to amplify the UMAA's brand and impact.
With strong team-building skills, the Director works within a high-performing team, builds cross-functional partnerships, and writes clear, compelling communications that inform and inspire alumni and other stakeholder audiences. This individual must be an agile, confident, and proactive professional who is comfortable navigating complex environments and influencing outcomes at the highest levels.
Key Position ResponsibilitiesAdvocacy Communications & Public Affairs: 35%- Collaborate on the development and execution of compelling advocacy campaigns that mobilize alumni to support University goals, particularly at the state level.
- Perform a broad range of internal and external communications work in support of advocacy-oriented work, which may include public relations, news releases, newsletters, web content, multi-media, photo and video, event coordination and social media, ensuring consistent and effective messaging and branding across all platforms.
- Write clear and compelling messages and communications that inform and inspire alumni and other key audiences.
- Support the communications strategy with written content for alumni when high-stakes, time-sensitive issues arise.
Executive Communications: 35%- Help shape the UMAA leadership narrative, CEO and Board communications across all platforms, including speeches, written communications, briefings, etc.
- Collaborate with the Senior Director of Executive Operations to provide strategic, written support for the CEO and UMAA Board of Directors.
- Develop high-level presentations and briefing materials for the CEO's engagements with internal and external audiences.
System Engagement & Greater Minnesota Strategy: 20%- Help support initiatives that expand the UMAA's reach and brand across Greater Minnesota by developing messaging and communications materials that resonate.
- Enhance statewide alumni impact on the University's enrollment, visibility, and reputation and legislative support as a part of the strategic advocacy team, its events and communications.
Strategic Communications: 10%
- Develop clear, timely and effective communications messaging and materials to proactively support the UMAA's communications response to crises and public issues, including sensitive or high-profile events.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field.
- Minimum of six years in progressively responsible roles in communications, public relations, or marketing.
- Demonstrated ability to lead high-impact, multi-stakeholder communication strategies in complex organizations.
- Exceptional professionalism and team management skills.
- Outstanding writing, editing, and verbal communication skills. Exceptional ability to craft executive-level remarks, columns and strategic presentations.
- Strong record of cross-functional collaboration, especially with senior leaders and external stakeholders.
- Work in office a minimum of three days per week for this hybrid role.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in nonprofit, alumni relations, or higher education environments.
- Background in advocacy or public affairs strategy.
Non-Essential Functions:
- Willingness and flexibility to work outside of traditional business hours as needed.
- Commitment to the mission and values of the UMAA and the University of Minnesota.
- Other duties as assigned.
Pay Range: $90,000-$110,000 depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100%-time Appointment
Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
- Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
- Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
- Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
- University HSA contributions
- Disability and employer-paid life insurance
- Employee wellbeing program
- Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
- Financial counseling services
- Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
- Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.
