Senior Executive Communications Specialist

University of Virginia

4d•$85,000 - $95,000•Hybrid

About The Position

UVA Information Technology Services (ITS) seeks a skilled communicator and exceptional writer to support executive communications for the Office of the Chief Information Officer (CIO). In this high-impact role, the Communications Specialist will help elevate leadership voices, create compelling content across channels, and increase the CIO’s visibility both within UVA and across the broader higher education and technology communities. Reporting to the Director of Communications and Outreach, this role leads executive-level communications strategy and delivery, working closely with the CIO, Deputy CIO, Chief of Staff, and senior leaders. The ideal candidate is an accomplished writer and storyteller who excels at shaping strategic narratives, translating complex or technical information, and fostering engagement across diverse audiences. This is a two-year limited term position, with the option of extension based on funding availability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Minimum of 5 years of professional communications experience.
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a strong understanding of audience, tone, and strategic framing.
Demonstrated experience planning and executing integrated communications strategies.
Experience developing executive-level presentations and talking points in the voice of senior leaders.
Proven ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, engaging content.
Strong interpersonal and listening skills, with the ability to incorporate feedback effectively.
Experience supporting internal events or leadership visibility initiatives.
Experience managing web content using a content management system (Drupal).
Proficiency with email platforms, social media tools, and visual storytelling.
Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment.
Demonstrated discretion and professionalism when handling confidential or sensitive information.
Collaborative workstyle with the ability to build trust across leadership and teams.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
Experience supporting change communications or organizational initiatives.
Background in communications within higher education, the public sector, or technology organizations.
Understanding of digital accessibility and usability best practices.
Confident executive presence with the ability to coach leaders on delivery, tone, and message.
Strong visual storytelling instincts and ability to simplify complex topics for broad audiences.
Experience with design tools such as Canva and Adobe Lightroom.
Extensive experience developing and delivering executive-level communications and strategic messaging

Responsibilities

Develop and execute integrated communications strategies that elevate the voice of the CIO with internal and external audiences.
Serve as lead writer, drafting and editing communications on behalf of the CIO.
Prepare remarks, presentations, articles, stories, and talking points that expand awareness of ITS strategy and leadership priorities.
Support quarterly departmental meetings by developing presentation content, preparing speakers, and coordinating logistics.
Ensure messaging aligns with the CIO’s voice, ITS Strategic Plan, and Culture Foundations.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support executive visibility during key initiatives and events.
Draft and edit executive-level communications including emails, web content, presentations, social posts, and internal messaging.
Proactively plan communications strategies and identify emerging opportunities; respond effectively to unexpected or time-sensitive events.
Maintain and update the CIO website and ITS intranet; contribute to future content strategy planning.
Ensure consistency with ITS branding, editorial standards, and communications best practices.
Support development of digital, presentation, and multimedia content for executive communications.
Identify opportunities to elevate CIO and ITS visibility through speaking engagements and thought leadership.
Monitor higher education and IT trends to inform messaging and positioning.
Support internal campaigns that promote engagement, awareness, and organizational culture.