FT Staff: Director of Communications and Marketing

Do you love working in an academic environment? Are you up to the challenge of creating and publishing creative news about Shaw through various media?

If so, we have the job for you! Shaw University is looking for a Director of Communications and Marketing. Reporting to the Vice President for Institutional Advancement, the Director of Communications and Marketing will develop, implement, and guide the strategy for all marketing, communications, website, public relations, strategic messaging, and collateral to consistently articulate Shaw University’s mission.

The Director of Communications and Marketing is responsible for planning, development and implementation of all marketing strategies, marketing communications, and public relations activities, both external and internal;

develops and oversees publication of printed materials and collateral materials in university wide marketing, communications, and public relations.

The Director of Communications and Marketing will work closely with university leadership, offices and the Institutional Advancement peer group, as the communications partner on a variety of strategic initiatives.

Essential Job Functions :

Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations

Advise the Vice President for Institutional Advancement on internal and external constituency relations, public relations, marketing, and communicationsBuild compelling and relevant omni-channel university marketing plans and campaigns, often in partnership with offices, divisional, or departmental University wide teams, that deliver on mission centered strategic institutional goalsDevelop, direct, and manage a comprehensive marketing, communications and public relations program that represents a cohesive and consistent message supporting the university's mission, brand, and goalsDevelop, direct, integrate, and manage strategic communications, marketing, and public relations functions of the university into a cohesive effort that conveys a consistent message in support of the university's mission and strategic goalsMeasure and monitor effectiveness of marketing efforts and campaigns, reporting on qualitative and quantitative metrics, and using data and insights to drive SMART goals and strategy.

Lead the university's efforts to monitor, manage, and respond to issues that place the university in the public eye Write and issue press releases;

manage content, design, editing, printing, and distribution of high-quality print and electronic publications and postsWork on projects under the purview of Institutional Advancement and campus - wide unitsCollaborate with Enrollment Management offices and other university offices to ensure consistent branding, uniform messaging, and prioritization of marketing efforts related to prospective studentsCollaboratively convene and align campus colleagues and activities across the university to leverage institutional resources and impactManage external communications and marketing vendors and consultants to ensure timely and successful completion of projects.

Work closely with the President, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Advancement staff, the Cabinet, and other university leaders to write communications materials, proposals, and presentations Provide advice and guidance to the Senior Administration in interacting with community groups, media, and other key constituents.

Interact effectively with members of the media and handle sensitive issues with public relations impact Oversee all IA digital and social media functions, photographic and video services, to include arranging coverage for IA efforts and special functionsLead development of print, web, and other media matters to promote a positive image and distinctive brand for the UniversityOversee, coordinate, and execute original communication products and publications related to special events, direct mail, and programsServe on university committees as needed

Special Knowledge, Skills & Abilities :

Knowledge and proven marketing, public relations, and advertising experience that supports a brand strategy in higher education setting or a complex organization Proven track record of driving marketing results in a complex, decentralized organization by garnering support and buy-in from key internal and external stakeholders including senior university administration, faculty, staff, and studentsExperience identifying target audiences, segmenting appropriately, and developing key messages and tactics to reach each audience.

Ability to write engaging and persuasive content with strong copywriting, editing, interpersonal, presentation skills.Demonstrate proficiency in using word processing, content management systems, CRM’s communication analytics, data base management, page layout and social networking tools in communications or marketing programs.

Understanding of effective creative, design, and branding principles, and the use of digital and social media as means of communication.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple and competing priorities and to take initiative in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with the pressure of deadlines.

Ability to handle and prioritize tasks while maintaining strong attention to detail.Considerable creative and analytical strength, including awareness of best practices, tools and relevant experiences building compelling marketing efforts that drive results.

Must be a strong and innovative problem solver, creative strategist and a great tactical leader who has an entrepreneurial working style.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced organizational environmentThis position may be required to perform additional functions based on the requirements of the Office of Institutional Advancement, the University and / or a specific project

Supervisory Responsibilities

Digital Media Manger, Consultants

Minimum Job Qualifications

Education and / or Experience

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, public relations from an accredited college or university required. Graduate degree in a related field is desirable.

Master’s in Communications or Public Relations preferred or related fieldsMinimum of 7 years’ experience in marketing, communications, or public relations with demonstrated success, preferably in higher education or the not-for-profit.

Demonstrated skills, knowledge and experience in the design and execution of marketing, communications, and public relations activities.

Strong creative, strategic, analytical, organizational, and personal sales skills.Demonstrated successful experience writing press releases, making presentations, and negotiating with media.

Experience overseeing the design and production of print materials and publications.Computer literacy in word processing, data base management and page layout.

Commitment to working with shared leadership and in cross-functional teams.Strong oral and written communications skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects at a time.Excel in a fast team environment with rapidly changing prioritiesExceptional written and verbal communication skills;

demonstrated expertise writing for publication, including AP style.Intermediate to advanced computer skills using Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other graphics, including desktop publishing and / or presentation software required.

Ability to periodically work extended workdays and occasional weekends.

Five Specific Competencies

Achieving Results

Sets challenging goals, tracks progress towards them, solves performance problems, and demonstrates urgency and drive towards achieving them.

Collaboration

Builds constructive working relationships with clients / customers, other work units, community organizations and others to meet mutual goals and objectives.

Behaves professionally and supportively when working with individuals from a variety of ethnic, social and educational backgrounds.

Communication

Clearly and respectfully conveys and receives information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups in a manner that engages the listener, helps them understand and retain the message, and invites response and feedback.

Keeps others informed as appropriate. Demonstrates good written, oral, and listening skills.

Customer Service

Makes customers / clients and their needs a primary focus of one’s actions; shows interest in and understanding of the needs and expectations of internal and external customers (including direct reports);

gains customer trust and respect; meets or exceeds customer expectations.

Strategic Focus

Understands how an organization must change in light of internal and external trends and influences; keeps the big, long-range picture in mind;

builds a shared long-range organizational vision with others. Committed to course of action to achieve long-range goals and influences others to translate vision into action.

Other Competencies (skills, abilities, behavior)

Must have a philosophy that is consistent with the Mission, Vision and Core Values of the University. Commitment, and experience in achieving goals and pursuing excellence is critical.

Strong oral and written presentation skills. Ability to work well independently and as a member of a team. Excellence in organization, decision-making, problem-solving and creating a collaborative environment.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Must be able to read, write and speak fluently in English.

Physical Demands

The work environment is in an office setting which requires the ability to travel much of the time, work long hours including evenings and weekends, be physically active, able to lift up to 50 pounds, and have the ability to demonstrate specific skills.

We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.