Associate Director of External Communication

Duties and Responsibilities

Develop and direct external communications strategies and tactics that strengthen Loyola’s mission and lift Loyola University Chicago’s brand .

This includes : Establishment of yearly communication calendars and plans coordinated with Loyola operations and milestonesBuild out and maintain an effective and up-to-date crisis communications planCollaborate in crafting official statements and rapid responseActive media outreach and proactive storytellingCollaborate in crafting official statementsContribute to integrated marketing campaigns in support of strategic plan, campus master plan, and advancement campaignsCreation of public relations themes, narratives, and campaigns around academic quality and brand pillarsManagement of reactive media inquiries, hot-button issues, and campus controversies, collaborating with appropriate stakeholders

Collaborate and coordinate across UMC, with MarCom managers, and with stakeholders on integrated campaigns that unify mission, brand, and voice Help research, write, and edit foundational communications (e.

g., president’s report, fact book, impact report, Loyola Today news hub, Examens)Contribute to integrated marketing and comms around IDIEI, civil discourse, and the character of the UniversityAdvise and partner with school marketing and communications managers on external communicationsCollaborate closely with University social media to coordinate messaging and monitor threats and responseDevelop effective plans and protocols for strategic operational excellence.

Manage direct report, Assistant Director of Internal Communication Collaborate and oversee editorial, production, cadence, and distribution of internal emails, newsletters;

consult as neededTeam closely with Assistant Director on rapid-response situationsIn consultation with the Assistant Vice President, work with the Assistant Director to develop integrated communications plans for proactive opportunities and issues responses.

Support the Assistant Director in expanding communications efforts to include more proactive storytelling and comprehensive channels.

Consult, advise, and support as needed; develop and complete annual performance evaluations.

Minimum Education and / or Work Experience Bachelor’s degree required in Journalism, Communications, or related field; advanced degree in Business, Marketing, or Communications preferred.

Significant background, 5-8 years, in Public or Media Relations, Marketing, or related communications experience. Qualifications Excellent written and verbal communications skills with adaptive writing agility for a variety of mediums (i.

e., news releases, social, web, and other copy for relevant platforms to maximize earned media coverage and content.

Well-versed in evolving media landscape and contemporary best practices and working knowledge of vendor tools like Cision, Businesswire, etc.

Proficient or in solid command of in Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, Excel, etc., Zoom and others.

Working knowledge of social media channel deployment (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn), and Sprout Social or other social media management, distribution and monitoring or listening platforms.

Proven success in PR pitching and high-profile media placements; active media network with focus on regional and national news and higher education.

Ability to collaborate with various teams including advancement, UMC, Student Development, HR, President’s office, Provost’s office, deans, special events, Graduate and Professional Enrollment Management, etc.

Demonstrated project management skills and ability to manage various deadline-driven projects simultaneously.

Superior interpersonal skills and ability to coordinate activities productively with functions and units outside his / her / their own sphere of control to ensure successful communication of desired messages.

Sophisticated in people management and a passion for mentoring, career pathing, and professional development

High ethical standards and integrity required Certificates / Credentials / Licenses None.

Computer Skills Proficient or in solid command of in Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, Excel, etc. Zoom and others.

Working knowledge of social media channel deployment (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn), Sprout Social or other social media management, distribution and monitoring or listening platforms.

Supervisory Responsibilities Yes Required operation of university owned vehicles No Does this position require direct animal or patient contact?

No Physical Demands None Working Conditions Irregular Hours