"Director of Communications"

Job Summary/Basic Function

The Director of Communications (DOC) plays a key leadership role in shaping and managing the Research and Economic Development (RED) Division and 1890 Land-Grant (L-G) Programs public image, messaging, and overall communication strategy. The DOC is responsible for the marketing and promotion of initiatives pertaining to Agriculture Research and Development Program (ARDP) and Extension programs. The DOC ensures that the 1890 Land-Grant brand and voice are consistent and effectively communicated to various internal and external audiences, such as students, faculty, staff, alumni, prospective students, parents, donors, the media, and the public. This position is responsible for the visual elements of the organization as it pertains to communications, marketing, and branding. Duties include supervision of Land Grant communication team, coordination and production of organizational publications, social media management, website content, assisting staff and faculty with programmatic marketing needs, representation at RED and L-G campus and community events, and maintaining a catalog of published materials and photographs. The position reports directly to the Vice President for Research and Economic Development and Director of Land-Grant programs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead communicator for RED and the 1890 L-G programs.
• Develop and execute comprehensive strategic communication plans for multi-faceted projects as well as individual projects and determine appropriate medium and the effective use of resources aligned with RED and the 1890 L-G mission, values, and goals.
• Manage RED and L-G communication personnel and the communication budget; media and public relations; advertising initiatives; oversee the creation of compelling content creation across various platforms, such as social media (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn), website content, public relations, crisis communications, brochures, newsletters, and other publications in conjunction with University Institutional Advancement.
• Advise RED and L-G leadership on strategic communication matters, including managing issues that could impact the division’s reputation.
• Coordinate the pre-production and production process of media projects.
• Develop concept, scope of project, and timeline, while managing deliverables within the resources allocated.
• Schedule photo shoots, uphold legal compliance standards and procedures, and post to appropriate platforms.
• Develop standards, systems, and best practices for content creation, maintenance, and other ways to keep communications efficient and compliant.
• Ensure messaging is consistent, accurate, and appropriate for the intended audience.
• Work with academic departments, student organizations, and other units to highlight RED and L-G programs accomplishments, research, and initiatives.
• Use analytics to measure the effectiveness of digital communications and adjust strategies as needed.
• Represent RED and L-G programs at various events and functions.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong organizational skills and detail-oriented with the ability to navigate complicated institutional terrain within a diverse multicultural environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and event management software (such as Cvent, Eventbrite, or others).
• Proficient with graphic design, including the Adobe Creative Suite
• Proficient with the use of social media platforms as a marketing strategy
• Proficient with web design software
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of budgeting and financial tracking.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and detail-oriented with the ability to navigate complicated institutional terrain within a diverse multicultural environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and event management software (such as Cvent, Eventbrite, or others).
• Proficient with graphic design, including the Adobe Creative Suite
• Proficient with the use of social media platforms as a marketing strategy
• Proficient with web design software
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of budgeting and financial tracking.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education or a similar sector.
• A Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.

Posting Date

10/10/2025

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Flexible hours, including occasional evenings/weekends, may be required, especially during events or execution phases. Occasional travel (including overnight stays) may be required depending on the nature of events and media coverage.

Position Category

Staff - Monthly (Exempt)

Budgeted Annual Salary

Commensurate with experience

Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. Unofficial Transcripts