Director, Communications, College of Arts and Sciences

University of Delaware•Newark, NJ

About The Position

The Communications Director leads strategic communications and marketing for the University of Delaware’s College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), developing internal and external messaging in conjunction with the University’s Office of Communications and Marketing (OCM). The role reports to the Senior Director, College Communications in OCM, with a dotted-line relationship to the Dean of the College. Working with OCM colleagues, the Director provides public relations, writing, graphic design and print production, digital and multimedia production, event planning, and photography services for CAS and its units. The role promotes a favorable image of the College to stakeholders and media, and develops communications strategies and materials that support CAS and University goals. The Director also advises senior CAS administrators and serves as the College’s lead for strategic communications, particularly during emergent situations or major developments that attract media or stakeholder attention.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing, or a related discipline, and six years of related experience managing and delivering communications activities, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to work effectively while managing multiple clients and projects simultaneously under tight deadlines and competing priorities.
Ability to support the day-to-day work of professional staff, partners, and/or vendors.
Superior written, verbal, interpersonal, organizational, and public speaking skills, with attention to detail.
Ability to apply communications knowledge, best practices, policies, and procedures to communications and marketing plans and activities.
Knowledge of communications concepts, principles, methodology, and techniques.
Knowledge and understanding of current issues and trends applicable to higher education institutions.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a research-oriented institution of higher education.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement strategic communications plans and initiatives for CAS in support of College and University priorities and goals.
Lead development and implementation of a comprehensive digital, social, and multimedia strategy that increases engagement with key audiences, aligns with UD policies, and complies with ADA requirements.
Coordinate with communications professionals on the production and delivery of communications tactics and products, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, policies, and procedures.
Work with internal College units, including Undergraduate Academic Services, academic departments, and centers, to address strategic communications goals.
Coordinate with groups outside CAS, including communications units in other UD colleges, Development and Alumni Relations, Admissions, and external media, to communicate information about CAS programs effectively.
Develop targeted marketing and communications messaging across print, web, and social media channels.
Provide communications guidance and support for major CAS events and CAS participation in major University events.
Create written and digital content for diverse audiences, including prospective and current students and parents, alumni, stakeholders, and the public.
Advise senior CAS administrators on communicating goals, priorities, and actions to stakeholders and media.
Serve as the College’s point person for strategic communications, particularly in emergent situations or major developments receiving media or stakeholder attention.
Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.