Content and Digital Communications Specialist

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

1d

About The Position

The Content and Digital Communications Specialist is a key member of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics’ small, fast-moving communications team, helping shape and execute the Institute’s public narrative. Working under the general direction of the Strategic Communications Director, the Specialist independently manages projects from concept to completion and exercises judgment on messaging, media outreach, and channel strategy. This is a writing-first role involving media relations, donor and stakeholder communications, and the Institute’s digital presence. The Specialist integrates communications for the IOP’s Speaker Series, Pritzker Fellows Program, Civic Engagement Program, and Career Development Program.

The role produces content for a range of audiences and platforms, builds relationships with journalists, develops communications campaigns, and monitors their results. It also translates program outcomes and data into narratives for reports, donor communications, the website, and media. The position reports to the Strategic Communications Director.

Requirements

• College or university degree in a related field.
• Knowledge and skills developed through 2–5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Excellent writing skills and flexibility in tone and voice to suit different channels.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey the Institute’s vision, mission, and brand.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills to meet internal and external deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media and CMS/CRM tools.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in public relations, marketing, English, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in communications, media relations, journalism, or public relations.
• Background working with college students or on a college campus.
• Understanding of relational organizing.
• Entrepreneurial and creative approach to improving communications and outreach efforts.
• Knowledge of and passion for politics and inspiring a similar passion in young people.
• Eagerness to try new things.
• References contact information (3) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and event previews.
• Plan and execute communications campaigns for the Speaker Series, Fellows, Civic Engagement, and Career Development programs, from strategy through evaluation.
• Develop and maintain the editorial calendar across press, newsletter, web, and social channels.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists; identify and pitch story opportunities to secure coverage of IOP programs, speakers, and Fellows.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on media coverage and communications metrics, and recommend strategic adjustments.
• Produce written content across formats, including newsletter and event copy, donor communications, board materials, talking points, and social media content.
• Ensure a consistent institutional voice across platforms and audiences.
• Draft donor-facing materials, including appeals, impact reports, and stewardship communications.
• Translate program outcomes and data into narratives for the annual report, donor impact reports, website, and media.
• Develop board communications and materials in coordination with the Director.
• Plan, develop, and disseminate information to keep the public informed about the organization's programs, accomplishments, or point of view, with moderate guidance and direction.
• Solve difficult and broad work assignments, applying originality and ingenuity.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Benefits

• Health, retirement, and paid time off benefits are available to eligible employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level