"Communications Coordinator"

Job Details

Communications Coordinator

Reporting to the Communications Director, the Communications Coordinator develops and implements marketing, advertising, and public relations plans for the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR), specifically working closely with 2-6 offices (units) within the division. A large part of this position’s responsibilities include setting and guiding the marketing strategy in partnership with the unit and division leadership, as well as managing the on-deadline execution of communications tactics such as websites, print materials, solicitation campaigns, engagement initiatives, event support and more.

This position helps the DAR Communications (DARCOMM) team identify opportunities for better division-wide collaboration and prioritization of projects based on the division’s strategic plan. Another primary function of this position is to support the creation of on-brand and accurate content for press releases, webpages, emails, print materials, events, and more—whether by writing or by delegating to colleagues and freelancers. Throughout the execution of their responsibilities, the Communications Coordinator is expected to collaborate with appropriate parties, delegate to writers and interns, and manage timelines to ensure all deliverables are ready on time, on budget, and accurate.

In general, the Communications Coordinator enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of marketing efforts that promote fundraising, career development, and alumni engagement among the University of Georgia’s many target audiences (alumni, donors, faculty/staff, students, corporate partners, foundations, etc.).

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in project management systems, such as ASANA, Trello, Basecamp, etc.
• Experience in media relations, digital advertising, email marketing, and/or social marketing.
• Ability to manage 30+ projects with varying deadlines at any given time.
• Knowledge of AP Style writing.
• An eye for design and/or knowledge of design programs is a bonus.
• Experience in higher education and/or fundraising.
• Exhibits behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the University of Georgia.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Self-starter, takes initiative, and can work independently as well as in a team environment
• Ability to navigate complex projects and ensure they are completed on deadline
• Ability to collaborate with others and enlist buy-in from different groups
• Exemplary communications skills (both written and verbal)
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask numerous projects with varying degrees of complexity with varying deadlines
• Communicates and employs interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct
• Knowledge of marketing trends and best practices, including a basic understanding of digital, social, email, out of home, and direct mail marketing

Physical Demands

• Work in a standard office environment with background noise
• Sit and work at a computer workstation for extended periods of time
• Work using electronic mail, telephone, face-to-face discussions, paper form correspondence
• Communicate effectively in writing, speaking, and listening
• Organize and establish priorities; remember details; multi-task
• Lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
• Walk, stand, stoop, lift, kneel, climb

Duties/Responsibilities

(65%) Lead project planning and project management for 2-6 DAR units

• Cultivate relationships between DAR Communications (DARCOMM) and units to foster a collaborative work environment that supports Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR)/UGA goals.
• Lead marketing/communications project planning in partnership with units and identify creative solutions that help DAR and units achieve strategic goals.
• Establish and maintain project timelines, proactively supporting colleagues to meet deadlines. Communicate anticipated delays in advance to ensure alignment and transparency with all stakeholders.
• Follow DARCOMM’s workflow processes and leverage the project management system to ensure projects are completed efficiently.
• Collaborate with and seek input from creative, communications, writing and digital colleagues.
• Ensure DARCOMM is consistently putting forth excellent work that is both high-quality and accurate.
• Maintain a positive attitude and serve both target audiences and UGA colleagues in a friendly and supportive manner.
• Attend, as appropriate, unit-led events/programs that require an on-site presence for execution.

(15%) Develop copy and support content creation for unit-driven projects

• Develop high-quality content and final products that follow AP Style, use correct grammar, are factually correct, and positively reflect the UGA brand.
• Contribute to concepting and storytelling for projects and assignments, even if not assigned to create the final product.
• Understand timelines and adhere to deadlines.
• Collaborate with and seek input from creative, communications, writing and digital colleagues.

(10%) Help maintain DAR websites associated with assigned units and contribute content to all DAR sites

• Help maintain DAR websites by leading planning and by delegating to others.
• Make simple web updates that relate to programs or overall communications strategies.
• Ensure web content is high-quality and follows AP Style, uses correct grammar, is factually correct and current, and positively reflects the UGA brand.

(5%) Guide and advise assigned units on marketing and communications best practices that will help them achieve their strategic goals

• Serve as a marketing and communications resource and expert for those working in assigned units.
• Be knowledgeable about resources and tools that can help units with marketing/communications needs even when DARCOMM is not able to execute.
• Stay updated on opportunities and trends in marketing, advertising, and public relations.

(5%) Assist in managing projects that are not driven by units and are part of DAR and UGA initiatives

• Maintain flexibility to assist with projects that arise.
• Collaborate with appropriate DAR/UGA personnel, as well as creative, communications, writing and digital teams on concepting and/or production needs.
• Understand timelines and adhere to deadlines.