"Director, Communications & External Relations"

Director, Communications & External Relations

Company: Auburn University

Job Location: Auburn University, 36849-5207

Category: Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs

Type: Full-Time

Requisition Number: S5069P

Home Org Name: Pharmacy Administration

Division Name: College of Pharmacy

Job Class Code: BA85

Appointment Status: Full-time

Limited Term: No

Job Summary

The Harrison College of Pharmacy (HCOP) is excited to hire the next Communications & External Relations Director!

Under general direction by the Dean of the Harrison College of Pharmacy at Auburn University, the Director of Communications and External Relations develops and implements strategy in the execution of all communications, building relationships with stakeholders, and media relations to communicate programs and successes of the college or school. This position leads, motivates, and supervises a team that executes the planned strategy in reaching and engaging current and new audiences.

As part of our Phase 2 implementation of the HCOP strategic plan and reorganization, we are continuing to review and realign several positions to better support our strategic direction and goals. As we improve our operational efficiency and address our strategic needs, where appropriate, we are consolidating roles and functions to provide enhanced support and resources for distinct areas of need.

Through a Mission Enhancement Fund initiative in 2024, the college engaged an external consultant to develop a comprehensive communications and marketing plan and to provide recommendations regarding the optimal support structure for this area.

The Communications & External Relations Director is a new position resulting from these recommendations which will support the college's growing communications, marketing, and external relations strategic priorities and ensuring the successful execution of high-impact initiatives. This position will (1) serve as the leader of our existing Marketing and Communications team, (2) allow us to expand our efforts in building relationships with alumni and other stakeholders, and (3) enhance media relations to communicate programs and successes of the college.

Essential Functions

• Develops strategy, in collaboration with the college's leadership, in establishing and maintaining relationships with external key partners and promoting the success of the college. Provides overall management and direction for external engagement with college stakeholder groups.
• Directs and manages marketing, communications, public relations, and general college external relations programs and college events.
• Serves as an initial point of contact for media requests and works closely with the University's Office of Communications and Marketing. Ensures communication products are of the highest quality and contain approved and appropriate content.
• Organizes and leads the execution of the college wide initiatives as assigned by the Dean. Coordinates, manages, and directs special projects and provides facilitation of proposal preparation and presentation as required by the Dean.
• Leads, motivates, develops, trains, and supervises the communications unit within the college in branding and communications related to the college's programs.
• Oversees responsible staff for management of the college website to maintain accurate, up-to-date information and directs the generation of news release copy, publication materials, social media, and electronic media submissions and releases.
• Develops and manages departmental budget to include developing, reviewing and approving financial reports, vouchers, and acquisitions.
• Full supervisory responsibility for other employees is a major responsibility and includes training, evaluating, and making or recommending pay, promotion or other employment decisions.
• Other related duties as assigned by supervisor.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or related field.
• 10 years of experience in external relations and communications industry related to academic, media, marketing and/or Public Relations.
• 2 years of experience supervising full-time employees.

Minimum Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of broadcast, electronic and print mediums, and related industries operational practices.
• Established working relationships with local, state, and national media and communication outlets.

Desired Qualifications

Masters degree in Communications, Marketing, or related field.

Salary Range: $81,510-$146,730

Job Category: Executive/Director/Management

City position is located in: Auburn

State position is located: Alabama

Closing Date: 02/27/2026

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit their website to learn more.