Director, Communications

Location : Chicago, IL

To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.

Job Description :

• Establishes and implements a communications strategy for the Roman Family Center for Decision Research.
• Identifies and understands the Center’s priorities and high-profile topics in order to prepare relevant communications plans and messages.
• Creates a strategic communications system and approach for branding, messaging, and communication delivery.
• Works closely with the RF-CDR laboratory operations team on effective participant recruitment efforts via email, social media, flyers, and other advertising avenues.
• Leads media and public relations campaigns to promote the visibility of the labs operations, particularly focusing on the new downtown lab.
• Coordinates and executes the day-to-day communications activities of the RF-CDR Administrative Office, in compliance with the priorities of RF-CDR as outlined by leadership, Booth and the University.
• Manages and maintains the RF-CDR website and provides fresh content to an evolving organization.
• Leads management of email communications, creating and sending newsletters, event notices and invitations.
• Manages digital marketing and outreach of the Center’s laboratories in conjunction with RF-CDR team members.
• Supports the Center’s data collection opportunities for RF-CDR faculty, for both laboratory and field research.
• Leads marketing and public relations for programs and events.
• Manages technical requirements, promotion, marketing, and communications of all public-facing RF-CDR events including all virtual events and future in-person events.
• Ensures successful communication and outreach on behalf of RF-CDR.
• Produces and / or coordinates with other Booth teams and external vendors on the production of attractive and informative official communications (e.

g., activities reports, newsletters, event announcements) from the center to various audiences.

• Collaborates with Booth Advancement on stewardship reports and other reporting efforts including an Annual Report.
• Offers communications expertise for activities in support of the RF-CDR, when needed.
• Manages, plans, and oversees professional staff in the development of communications policies and programs.
• Develops the writing, preparation, and / or delivery of information from or about the unit. Is accountable for maintaining the unit's goals and communications strategy in publications, announcements, and speeches.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

Education :

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Master’s degree in marketing and / or communications.

Experience :

• At least five years of experience as a communications professional.
• At least two years of experience managing staff and coordinating activities among multiple personnel (e.g. project contributors from multiple departments).

Technical Skills or Knowledge :

• Mastery of administrative computer skills (e.g., the Microsoft Office suite, project management applications, Google apps, web-editing platforms).
• Experience with email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, Marketo), social media management, and graphic design / layout (Adobe Suite, Canva).

Preferred Competencies

• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, including communicate complex ideas to a range of audiences.
• Analyze and interpret complex information and present it clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal skills to enable effective communication, generate trust, and effectively work to address the needs of faculty and staff at all levels including senior leaders.
• Strong project and time management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Organizational skills, including simultaneously advancing multiple projects, meeting deadlines under pressure, and resourcefully solving unforeseen problems.

Working Conditions

This position is currently expected to work a minimum three days per week in the office.

Application Documents

• Resume / CV (required)
• Cover Letter briefly describing past experiences and career goals (required)
• Reference Letters (preferred)
• Writing Sample preferably describing research (required)

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity / Disabled / Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.

For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information.

The Report can be accessed online at : securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E.

61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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