Job DescriptionThe individual will report to the Vice President of Public Relations and social media. The individual develops and executes proactive and reactive media-relations strategies for the University and serves as its primary spokesperson, promoting and maintaining a favorable reputation for the institution. This role addresses the media on complex and sensitive issues on a timely basis, handling crisis communications and responding to urgent communications needs. This person will work with leadership and key stakeholders, directing media strategy and response.
The Executive Director leads issues management, tracking local and national trends and news and provides strategic counsel. The role works closely with emergency management on a comprehensive safety communications strategy and protocols. The role develops communication materials, such as media statements, communications plans, key messages, briefing documents, and other materials, while actively collaborating with campus leaders and colleagues to ensure consistent, high-quality communications.
Key Responsibilities:
- Primary University Spokesperson: Serve as the lead spokesperson and provide high-level strategic counsel to executive leadership on complex, sensitive, and urgent issues affecting the University.
- Reputation & Issues Management: Proactively identify and track, national news trends, advising senior administration on media responses and communications strategies to safeguard the Universitys reputation.
- Emergency Communications Leadership: Lead the Universitys comprehensive emergency communications strategy and safety protocols, partnering with University Police and emergency management teams on preparedness, simulations, and real-time crisis response.
- Strategic Media Relations: Cultivate and maintain deep relationships with local and national media outlets, directing and leading the Universitys media response and facilitating expert commentary from academic and administrative leaders.
- Communications Oversight & Content: Oversee the development of critical communication materials including media statements, briefing documents, and key messaging ensuring clear, consistent and accurate information and voice.
- Team & Operational Direction: Provide guidance to internal stakeholders on media engagement, while managing administrative functions such as film/commercial location requests and the proprietary use of University names and logos.
Required Skills- B.S./B.A in journalism or communications and eight or more years of relevant experience in crisis communications, corporate communications, public relations, reputation management, or related fields, or equivalent.
- Proven experience working with executive-level leaders and managing diverse communication strategies.
- Demonstrated expertise in strategic decision-making, especially under stress.
- Exceptional ability to craft and deliver strategies and messaging on sensitive issues for diverse audiences, both internal and external, under tight deadlines.
- Strategic thinker with a track record of developing and executing multi-faceted communication plans.
- Strong news judgment with an appreciation of brand alignment in response strategies.
- Deep understanding of news and social media dynamics, including stakeholder interactions across various channels.
- Excellent organizational skills, with the capacity to juggle different projects simultaneously, with consistent accuracy, follow-through, and timely completion of projects.
- Exceptional interpersonal communication and relationship management abilities. Ability to gain buy-in from project stakeholders.
- Strong belief in truth and transparency as key communication principles.
- Ability to lead with empathy, emotional intelligence, and patience in high-pressure situations.
- Collaborative mindset, with the ability to link information, objectives, and stakeholders across the organization.
- Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations related to crisis management.
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays depending on operational needs, including regularly being on call.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree.
- Five or more years of management experience.
