"Director of Social Media"

Department Summary

The division of University Communications (UC) positions the University of Oregon to succeed and thrive by elevating the University of Oregon's local relevance, national competitiveness, and global recognition. The division's team of approximately 60 full-time professionals utilizes a comprehensive suite of communications tools to implement cohesive, integrated, targeted, and proactive branding, marketing, communications, and media relations efforts. In addition, the division partners with departments across campus to advance the UO's standing among the top public research universities and to amplify the impact of our students and scholars in support of the university's strategic priorities. We are committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging in a safe and respectful environment that recognizes the value of all members of our community.

Position Summary

The Director of Social Media and Brand Strategy is the University of Oregon's senior-most social media leader, reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Brand Strategy. This high-impact role leads the university's social media strategy and execution, oversees all institutional-level social accounts, manages a team of professional and student staff, and plays a key role in digital brand activation. The Director will lead content planning and production, monitor and engage across platforms, and coordinate social media campaigns that align with UO's marketing strategy and priorities. They will serve as the voice of the university to millions of followers-creating timely, compelling content, advising university leadership on social strategy, and serving as a central figure during crisis communications and reputational issues. This position manages paid and organic social media programs, oversees vendor relationships and digital tools (such as Falcon or podcast platforms), and ensures compliance with university policies and brand standards. The Director regularly collaborates with internal teams, external partners, and senior leaders-including advising on content for the president, deans, and other university officials. Additionally, the Director mentors the Communications Academy team, providing leadership development and job experience for student employees. Success in this role requires excellent judgment, adaptability, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of the social and digital media landscape. Work may occasionally include evenings, weekends, or holidays, and may involve light travel.

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, English, marketing, writing, public relations, or a closely related discipline; OR ten years of professional experience working in the areas of communication, social media, marketing, or public relations. Five years of professional experience working as a marketing and communications professional that was responsible for high-stakes and complex marketing and strategic communications goals and projects.

Professional Competencies

Excellent writing skills, interpersonal, and communication skills. Ability to work in a team environment, cooperatively with individuals in a service-oriented environment. Ability to solve complex problems quickly and maintaining creativity in a fast-paced environment including communication support for crisis or issues facing an organization. Expert knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud, project management applications, and web-based content management systems and ability to learn emerging media and technology. Thorough understanding of accessibility requirements as they apply to social media platforms. Project management and organizational skills. Knowledge of Drupal. Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, recognizing and respecting the many and varied identities of each person. Skill in promoting and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Preferred Qualifications

More than five years of social media and/or brand management experience. Experience in developing or leading efforts to implement system-wide technologies. Experience coaching and mentoring staff to support their skill development and growth. Experience leading large scale team trainings and implementing department policy or guidelines. Experience working with executives and providing counsel for executive communications. Experience with budget authority and/or budget management. Advanced degree in marketing, communication, brand responsibility, or related area. Experience working in communications for higher education. Experience managing social media channels, particularly TikTok, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and tools, such as Juicer and leveraging technology communication tools.