External Communications Specialist

Highlands College•Mountain Brook, AL

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

The External Communications Specialist develops and executes strategic communication initiatives that advance the mission, vision, and reputation of Highlands College. This role serves as a trusted communications partner by creating and implementing communication strategies that strengthen engagement with donors, alumni, ministry partners, media representatives, and other key stakeholders. The External Communications Specialist exercises independent judgment in determining communication approaches, messaging priorities, and channel strategies while managing projects from concept through execution. This role contributes to organizational goals by driving proactive media relations, strategic stakeholder communications, and event communication initiatives that enhance awareness, engagement, and institutional impact.

Requirements

5–7 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, media relations, marketing communications, or a related field required.
Experience developing and executing strategic communication plans.
Experience writing for executive leaders and diverse stakeholder audiences.
Experience managing communication projects from concept through execution.
Exceptional written, verbal, and editorial communication skills.
Ability to develop and execute strategic communication plans.
Ability to make independent decisions regarding communication tactics and channel selection.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Ability to effectively communicate with senior leaders, donors, alumni, ministry partners, and media representatives.
Ability to evaluate communication effectiveness and recommend improvements.
Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
Knowledge of strategic communications, public relations, and media relations principles.
Knowledge of communication planning, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management.
Knowledge of crisis communication best practices.
Familiarity with digital communication platforms, email marketing, and content development.
Understanding of brand management and message consistency.
Demonstrates a strong commitment to the mission, values, and culture of Highlands College.
Highly self-motivated, resourceful, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
Exhibits sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion when handling sensitive information.
Possesses strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Maintains a positive attitude and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Demonstrates adaptability and resilience amid changing priorities and organizational needs.
Strategic thinking
Initiative
Independent judgement
Analytical skills
Relationship building
Attention to detail
Project management
Professional discretion
Communication excellence

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, English, or a related field preferred.
Adobe Creative Suite
Meltwater
Microsoft Office Suite
Monday.com

Responsibilities

Develop comprehensive communication strategies and plans by assessing organizational objectives, stakeholder needs, and communication opportunities.
Exercise independent judgment in selecting communication channels, tactics, messaging approaches, and content strategies to achieve desired outcomes.
Manage communication projects from concept through execution by establishing timelines, coordinating resources, and ensuring timely delivery of communication initiatives.
Provide strategic communication recommendations to leadership by identifying opportunities, mitigating risks, and evaluating communication effectiveness.
Monitor communication performance and stakeholder engagement by analyzing metrics and recommending improvements to communication strategies.
Develop and implement a proactive press release strategy that supports institutional priorities and increases awareness of Highlands College initiatives, achievements, and events.
Build and maintain relationships with media representatives by serving as a primary point of contact for media inquiries and story opportunities.
Draft, edit, and distribute press releases, media advisories, statements, and related communication materials.
Monitor media coverage and industry trends by utilizing media monitoring tools and providing insights to leadership.
Coordinate media outreach efforts and facilitate interviews, media opportunities, and public-facing communications.
Assist in the development and execution of crisis communication plans by preparing messaging frameworks and communication resources.
Draft timely and accurate communications during sensitive situations while maintaining alignment with institutional values and communication objectives.
Collaborate with leadership to assess communication risks and recommend appropriate communication responses.
Monitor public perception and media activity during crisis situations and provide strategic communication recommendations as needed.
Develop and execute communication strategies that increase engagement among donors, alumni, and ministry partners.
Create and manage newsletters, impact stories, updates, and value-added communications that strengthen stakeholder relationships and foster continued engagement.
Collaborate with Advancement and other departments to communicate institutional impact, initiatives, events, and opportunities for involvement.
Ensure communication materials consistently reflect the Highlands College brand, mission, and strategic priorities.
Draft speeches, scripts, talking points, presentations, correspondence, and other executive communication materials for leadership.
Develop communication plans for institutional events by identifying target audiences, communication timelines, messaging strategies, and promotional tactics.
Create and execute event invitation campaigns and related communication initiatives to maximize participation and engagement.
Coordinate communication deliverables for major institutional events and stakeholder gatherings.
Partner with internal departments to identify communication needs and develop effective communication solutions.
Maintain consistency in messaging, tone, and brand standards across communication channels and materials.
Provide communication guidance and support to departments by recommending best practices and strategic communication approaches.
Participate in ministry at Church of the Highlands and Highlands College by leading small groups.
Affirm and uphold the Statement of Faith and the Core Values and DNA of the College, exemplifying all by word and lifestyle.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and objectives of Highlands College.