SW Hub NSF I-Corps Communications Manager

SW Hub NSF I-Corps Communications Manager

The role of the Communications Manager is to provide strong leadership while independently developing, managing, and leading the communication strategy to support the mission and goals of the NSF I-Corps Southwest Hub and its university networks. In carrying out this responsibility, this individual works closely with the LSU I-Corps SW Hub Project Manager / Director as well as the UT Austin NSF I-Corps SW Hub Director; university network staff and public relations entities, other civic and government representatives in support of the mission and goals of the NSF I-Corps Hubs Program.

Job Responsibilities :

• Creative Content - Independently develop, research, and write press releases, infographics, blogs, success stories, annual report, and internal and external newsletters. Lead, coordinate, and maintain the NSF I-Corps SW Hub website and mobile application. Develop content for digital, web, and social media platforms supporting strategic messaging and goals for all unique audiences. Manage social media accounts. Work with key internal role-players to generate content ideas, in line with the NSF I-Corps SW Hub strategic plan and network initiatives. Analyzes trends and adjusts strategies based on performance results. (50%)
• Brand Management - Acquire a detailed knowledge of NSF policies, principles, and strategies, and keep current in relevant developments in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Promote, maintain, educate, and adhere to branding guidelines set forth by NSF and the NSF I-Corps SW Hub Director. Oversee marketing and promotional efforts of the network universities for consistency in brand management and coordination of marketing and promotional efforts. (20%)
• Program Advocate and Representative - Represent the NSF I-Corps SW Hub and the network institutions to economic and community development groups, private and public sector partners, promote positive publicity, and improve awareness of the NSF I-Corps SW Hub program and services. Works collaboratively with the Office of Communications and University Relations and adheres to the standards set therein in addition to ORED's communications office. (15%)
• Training and Management - Independently manage the coordination of special events, oversee planning, and configure schedules for proper execution of events for the NSF I-Corps SW Hub. Serve as point of contact for vendors in the coordination of graphic design, digital media efforts, print materials, promotional items, and paid advertising. (10%)
• Other duties as assigned. (5%)

Minimum Qualifications : Bachelor's Degree and 3 years experience in communications, marketing, business, public relations, or related.

LSU values skills, experience, and expertise. Candidates who have relevant experience in key job responsibilities are encouraged to apply a degree is not required as long as the candidate meets the required years of experience specified in the job description.

Additional Information : The position requires an understanding of entrepreneurship programs; ability to develop small business seminars; ability to provide guidance to other professional and support staff. Excellent oral and written communication skills and team building skills are required. Self-motivation with the ability to identify, learn and implement new concepts is essential. Understanding the mission of America's Small Business Development Centers would be a plus. Highly computer literate with capability in MS Office, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, email marketing software, video editing software, and related business and communication tools.

Due to the nature of the position and / or responsibilities, in times of emergencies and / or University closures, this position is considered essential. It may be required to assist the Office of Communications and University Relations on necessary communications matters in times of crisis, including potentially working in LSU's Emergency Operations Center during those times.

Physical ability and eye-hand coordination necessary to use a computer terminal, copier, telephone and other standard office equipment; ability to sit in the same position for extended periods (5.5+ hours a day) at a time using continuous hand motions when entering data into the computer system.