Communications Manager

About Holy Family University

Holy Family University is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth founded in 1954. The University is a private institution in the Catholic tradition with campus locations in Philadelphia and Newtown PA.

The main campus is nestled in the heart of a historic residential neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia that is vibrant and just minutes from the excitement of Center City.

The Newtown, campus is located in Bucks County surrounded by nature and a step away from parks, farmers’ markets and great dining.

One of the best parts of Holy Family University is our inclusive atmosphere and that's not by chance. Our mission centers on creating an environment that is welcoming and encourages all members to get to know one another, learn from one another, and experience a range of perspectives and worldviews.

Our diversity is what makes us a strong community.

University Benefits

Holy Family University takes pride in offering a range of meaningful and flexible benefits designed to promote the health and wellness of our employees and their dependents.

Our comprehensive benefits and resources focus on physical, mental and financial wellness to include medical, prescription, dental and vision.

We did not stop there; we also offer our employees the following fringe benefits and more.

• Commuter Benefits : Transit and park benefits through pre-tax payroll deductions
• Half-Day Fridays : Enjoy half day Fridays in the summer
• 403(b) Retirement : Discretionary match up to 5%; vested immediately
• Time Off : 12 Paid Holidays, PTO, Personal, Sick Days and a week off for Winter Break
• Tuition Remission : Pursuing a first Master’s or Doctoral degree, receive 100% tuition remission. Eligible dependents pursing a first Master’s or Doctoral degree, receive 50% tuition discount
• Alpha House : 50% Discount for Nursery, Pre-K and Kindergarten

Position Summary

The Communications Manager is responsible for news, web, and print publication writing and will provide communications support of the Marketing & Communications function.

The Communications Manager will work closely with staff within the unit and across the University to promote and highlight high-quality content to showcase the mission, values, and priorities of Holy Family University.

Essential Functions

Job duties that must be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, and may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics.

This position description is illustrative and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents in this position.

• Seek out, research, and write articles, profiles, and other publication features
• Draft and edit news releases, pitch letters, op-eds, newsletters, columns, letters to the editor, and advertising copy
• Navigate and utilize the university’s media relations platform for distributing news, communicating with media points, and tracking media placements
• Serve as the point person responsible for creating standard weekly, monthly, and ad hoc publications to select constituents
• Create talking points, speeches, backgrounders and presentations for senior leadership
• Write content for webpages, marketing campaigns, and paid advertising campaigns, ensuring that all content is of the highest quality from factual content to proofreading, grammar, and editorial style
• Write clear, compelling news and related copy for various media in Associated Press style and according to Holy Family’s editorial style guide
• Create, edit, proofread, and rewrite as necessary a wide range of content including internal and external communications content from media outreach to news stories, website content, blog articles, advertising copy, fact sheets, and other University publications
• Manage and execute a social media content strategy and monitor key channels
• Conduct thorough research and interviews, and fact-check all content for accuracy
• Schedule photography, interviews, and testimonials for the production of advertising copy, commercials, and other promotional purposes;

write and edit promotional copy

• Collaborate on editorial and digital projects and interpret copywriting goals to understand project requirements
• Coordinate and implement marketing initiatives designed to attract students and community members to programs and generate community support for University initiatives
• Select appropriate photo images and format them appropriately to suit the platform
• Coordinate and process incoming information requests from internal stakeholders as well as media outlets
• Create / update communications pieces that effectively describe and promote the University and its programs, including graphics, brochures, University fact sheets, logos, and other promotional products
• Serve as Editor of the Holy Family University alumni magazine and create and manage an editorial calendar to ensure timely deadlines, reviews, and overall production
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as required

General Expectations

Employees are expected to accomplish assigned duties in an efficient, effective and competent manner and to strive for improvement and excellence in all work performed.

Employees must understand the mission and demonstrate the core values of the University. Additionally, demonstrate the ability to work with diverse personalities, and harmoniously with students, faculty and staff, and the public.

Employees are expected to follow and abide by all University policies, rules, regulations and guidelines.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, English, Public Relations, or a related field
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in professional marketing, public relations, or communications
• Higher education experience strongly preferred
• Experience and understanding of a wide range of audiences, working with style and brand guidelines and tailoring communications to the audience
• Ability to edit / proofread for grammar, clarity, and organization
• Basic photography skills
• Proven experience as a copywriter or related role
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
• Ability to manage and deliver a wide variety of written projects on time and with accuracy

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of and ability to follow university policies and procedures. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the campus community.

• Strong diplomacy and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact with the Holy Family community at large
• Demonstrated exceptional oral and written communication skills
• Good organizational skills, ability to multitask and prioritize to meet deadlines, and attention to detail
• Ability to think proactively and strategically
• Professional and respectful demeanor
• Techniques of preparing, producing and disseminating information
• Elements of publication production, including printing
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Project management experience
• Strong story research and interview skills
• Proficient in Associated Press style writing and editing
• Excellent teamwork, time management and organizational skills
• Online content strategy and creation knowledge
• Photo editorial selection
• Video editing knowledge a plus

Work Environment

Operates in an office environment, that may have frequent interruptions. The area is well-lit, temperature controlled and free from hazards.

Noise level is generally quiet to moderate.

Physical Requirements

Communicates frequently, in person, over the phone, or via a computer. Hearing is needed for extensive telephone and in person communication.

Regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms. Manual dexterity is needed in order to operate a computer keyboard.

Operates standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applications must include a resume / CV and a portfolio / link to a portfolio with a minimum of three writing samples.

Thank you for your interest in Holy Family University. We invite qualified applicants to apply at our .