Strategic Internal Communications Manager

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

About The Position

University Marketing and Communications, the central communications and marketing unit at Iowa State, is looking for an experienced communications professional (Communications Specialist III) who excels in communications for internal audiences across various platforms and channels. The ideal candidate will demonstrate outstanding writing, editing, and communication abilities coupled with a strong sense of professionalism, collaboration, and organization. Leadership skills are essential, along with the capacity for strategic internal communications planning and execution. This role requires someone who can work independently, make informed decisions, effectively manage time, and contribute to a team environment. In this senior communications role, you'll have the opportunity to lead strategic internal communication efforts aimed primarily at Iowa State's faculty and staff employees. Your leadership will be essential in ensuring that internal communications align with and support the university’s priorities, mission and values. You'll be joining a highly collaborative team that supports the university’s mission through storytelling, effective messaging and alignment with the university's master brand strategy focused on innovation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience
Outstanding writing, editing, and communication abilities
Strong sense of professionalism, collaboration, and organization
Leadership skills
Capacity for strategic internal communications planning and execution
Ability to work independently, make informed decisions, and effectively manage time
Ability to contribute to a team environment
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations or related field
Experience leading and/or contributing to project management, including collaborating with contributors without direct reporting authority
Experience developing and/or implementing a strategic communications plan
Experience in developing content to build high levels of trust, drive employee engagement and contribute to a positive workplace culture
Experience providing communication guidance for senior leaders
Hands-on experience with email platforms and other systems for deploying content and tracking metrics
Prior experience supervising employees

Responsibilities

Support development and execution of internal communications strategy
Build out university-wide internal communications planning and operations
Manage production of Inside Iowa State, the flagship faculty-staff communication
Develop content to ensure university employees are well-informed and clearly understand institutional priorities and decisions
Measure outcomes encompassing shifts in organizational culture and behavior
Collaborate with and advise campus communicators on internal communications strategies and coordination
Generating content that uplifts university priorities and brand
Supporting campus units with internal communication priorities and needs
Leading team projects in support of strategic initiatives
Provide consultation for communication and marketing professionals across campus
Coordinating visual elements (photography, video, etc.) to support stories
Reviewing, proofreading and fact-checking content
Occasional work outside of regular business hours