Communications Director – Sample Job Description
The Communications Director serves as the strategic leader for all communications, public relations, and marketing efforts at our clients university based in Dallas, TX. This role is pivotal in shaping the university’s brand, enhancing its reputation, and ensuring consistent messaging across all channels. Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications, the Communications Director works collaboratively with academic, administrative, and external stakeholders to promote the university’s mission, vision, and values.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications:
- Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to support institutional goals and enhance public perception.
- Oversee the creation and dissemination of university-wide messaging, ensuring consistency, clarity, and alignment with the university’s strategic priorities.
Media Relations:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, cultivating relationships with local, state, and national media outlets.
- Develop and implement media outreach plans, including press releases, op-eds, and media briefings.
Crisis Communication:
- Lead the university’s crisis communication efforts, providing clear and effective messaging during times of uncertainty or emergency.
- Serve as a key advisor to leadership on sensitive communication matters.
Digital and Social Media:
- Oversee the university’s digital presence, including website content and social media platforms, ensuring engaging and accurate representation.
- Utilize analytics to measure the effectiveness of digital strategies and adjust tactics as needed.
Leadership and Collaboration:
- Supervise and mentor a team of communications professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Work closely with university leadership, faculty, and staff to identify storytelling opportunities that highlight academic and community achievements.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
- Build strong relationships with alumni, donors, and community partners to support the university’s mission.
- Act as a university representative at key events and public forums, promoting institutional initiatives.
Qualifications:
Education:
- A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field is required. A master’s degree is preferred.
Experience:
- A minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or marketing, preferably in higher education or a similarly complex organization.
- Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic communication plans.
Skills:
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities.
- Proficiency in digital media tools, analytics platforms, and content management systems.
- Crisis management experience and a proven ability to communicate effectively under pressure.
Why Join Us:
This is an opportunity to lead the communications efforts of one of Texas’s premier institutions, shaping the narrative of its academic excellence and community impact. As Communications Director, you will have a direct hand in advancing the university’s reputation and ensuring its voice is heard on the state, national, and global stage.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit their resume, cover letter, and a portfolio of relevant work to [Application Email/Portal]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
