Director of Editorial Strategy & Publications

Job Description Summary

Penn Dental Medicine seeks a strategic and experienced Director of Editorial Strategy & Publications to lead high-impact communications initiatives and oversee the development of integrated content across print, digital, and media platforms. Reporting to the Assistant Dean for Marketing & Communications, this role plays a key leadership function in advancing the School's brand, reputation, and engagement with key audiences, including prospective students, alumni, donors, and the broader academic and clinical community.

The Director is responsible for translating institutional priorities into cohesive, multi-channel communications strategies and managing major marketing and communications projects from concept through execution. This role provides leadership in shaping institutional messaging, ensuring consistency across platforms, and driving initiatives that support student recruitment, alumni engagement, and fundraising outcomes. The Director also leverages emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools, to enhance content development, streamline workflows, and support data-informed decision-making.

A central responsibility of this role is oversight of the Penn Dental Medicine Journal (PDMJ), the School's flagship publication and a key vehicle for alumni and donor engagement.

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Lead the development and execution of integrated communications strategies that align with institutional priorities and elevate the School's brand and reputation.
• Translate strategic initiatives into clear, compelling messaging across multiple channels and audiences.
• Partner with the Assistant Dean to advance key marketing and communications priorities.

Major Publications & Signature Projects

• Direct the strategy, development, and production of the Penn Dental Medicine Journal (PDMJ).
• Lead high-profile publications and special projects that support institutional goals.
• Manage complex projects from concept through execution, coordinating stakeholders and vendors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, and storytelling across multiple platforms.
• Experience managing complex editorial projects and publication production processes.
• Strong understanding of integrated communications, including print, digital, and media relations.
• Familiarity with content management systems (e.g., WordPress) and digital publishing tools preferred.
• Familiarity with AI-enabled content tools and data-informed communications strategies.