Vice President, Higher Ed

BerlinRosen•Washington, DC

2h•$130,000 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

BerlinRosen is part of Orchestra, a strategic communications and marketing company with more than 700 people and a network of communications firms and related businesses. The Higher Education team works with colleges, universities and academic institutions on integrated communications across paid, earned, social, content and crisis channels. Its clients include Ivy League institutions, R1 research universities and flagship public university systems. The Vice President will join the growing Higher Education team as an experienced strategic communicator. This role leads communications strategy and campaigns for high-profile clients, promotes programs that drive media coverage, and supports client goals and initiatives. The position is available on a hybrid basis in New York City or Washington, D.C.; candidates in other Orchestra office locations or remote candidates will also be considered. The salary range is $130,000–$150,000, commensurate with experience and skills. Vice Presidents are eligible for year-end bonuses based on firm, team and individual performance.

Requirements

At least 8 years of relevant communications experience, in a PR agency or in-house at higher education institutions, companies, nonprofits, media organizations or journalism.
Strong background in public relations and a proven record of creating and driving strategy, managing campaigns and promoting programs that generate media coverage.
Strong news sense, avid interest in news, knowledge of the media, and experience engaging and maintaining relationships with key reporters covering current issues.
Strong written and oral communications skills.
Ability to manage multiple assignments, work quickly, meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment and pay close attention to detail.
Experience motivating, leading and mentoring a diverse team to meet objectives.
Ability to manage multiple clients and work streams and bring a strategic mindset to innovative, results-driven PR campaigns.
Passion for higher education and its role in society, and interest in elevating the stories of colleges, universities and related organizations.

Responsibilities

Lead strategic conversations and advance communications strategy for multiple high-profile client accounts.
Develop and oversee integrated campaigns using public affairs, media and digital tactics to reach key audiences and achieve client goals.
Manage and mentor staff, providing strategic direction and feedback on their development and client work.
Draft high-level materials, including strategy decks, communications plans, messaging and op-eds.
Collaborate with the management team to develop and inspire strategists to be innovative and creative.
Help win new business and expand client relationships by leveraging an existing network and identifying opportunities.
Manage, prepare and staff high-touch principals or organizational leaders.
Engage with media on both rapid-response and long-lead stories.