"Research Communication & Marketing Director"

Research Communication & Marketing Director

Company:
Auburn University

Job Location:
Auburn University, 36849-5207

Category:
Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs

Type:
Full-Time

Requisition Number: S4996P

Home Org Name: SVPRED Operating

Division Name: VP for Research and Economic Dev

Job Class Code: OC26

Appointment Status: Full-time

Limited Term: No

Job Summary

The office of the Sr. Vice President for Research and Economic Development is accepting applications for a Director of Research Communication and Marketing. This position will advance Auburn's research reputation by shaping the university's narrative through strategic storytelling, digital engagement and media relations. Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Research, the director leads comprehensive communication and marketing initiatives that highlight Auburn's research strengths across digital, print and multimedia platforms.

This position oversees research-related editorial content, media outreach, photography, videography and multimedia engagement. The director also manages the Research Communication, developing its curriculum and building strong relationships with participating faculty.

The role works closely with colleges, research units and campus communicators to ensure Auburn's research discoveries and impact are presented in compelling, consistent and innovative ways to audiences on campus, throughout Alabama and across the nation.

Essential Functions

• Develop and maintain Auburn's institutional research narrative aligned with the university's mission, voice and values.
• Lead editorial content, media relations, photography, videography and multimedia storytelling for research.
• Champion innovative digital storytelling strategies to strengthen Auburn's national research profile.
• Oversee media relations strategies and cultivate relationships with local, regional and national outlets.
• Plan and implement programs that enhance the capacity of faculty to communicate their research to diverse audiences, including curriculum development and faculty engagement.
• Partner with colleges, research units and campus communicators to align messaging with institutional priorities.
• Support campus communicators in storytelling, media engagement and digital strategy.
• Identify new research communication and marketing opportunities, initiatives and platforms.
• Lead regular collaboration meetings with Associate Deans of Research, campus communicators and the Office of Communications and Marketing.
• Promote key research initiatives through coordinated communication and marketing strategies.
• Provide marketing support for research events, sponsored projects and partnerships.
• Manage timelines, budgets, vendors and workflows to deliver high-quality communication and marketing projects.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

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 Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Business or related field and 6 years of experience in marketing and communications services.

Substitution allowed for Experience:
Graduate degrees may be accepted in lieu of some experience.

Minimum Skills and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge in developing and executing communication campaigns in complex, mission-driven organizations.
• Demonstrated leadership in a large, complex organization with multiple stakeholders.
• Proven ability to exercise emotional intelligence, discretion, and sound judgment in managing sensitive matters and relationships.
• Strong background in shaping and maintaining institutional voice, narrative and brand messaging across digital, print and multimedia channels.
• Familiarity with emerging media, digital platforms and content trends, with the ability to incorporate them into institutional storytelling strategies.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build consensus, foster collaboration and lead cross-functional teams through influence.
• Demonstrated commitment to staff development, transparency and fostering a high-performing team culture.

Minimum License and Certifications

None Required.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience using analytics tools
• Adobe Creative Cloud experience
• Ability to maintain and update web content in a CMS

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

Job Category: Research

City position is located in:
Auburn

State position is located:
Alabama

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.

Special Instructions to Applicants
provide 3 references

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