Senior Director for Strategic Communications
About the Job
The Senior Director for Strategic Communications leads the strategy, team, and operations that further the University of Minnesota’s research story and priorities and drive awareness, understanding and engagement amongst internal and external stakeholders.
As leader of Research & Innovation Office (RIO) communications, the Senior Director sets the vision, and leads the development and successful implementation of strategy for research storytelling, executive communications, media and issues response, digital engagement, and University-wide collaboration in partnership with communications leaders around the University. The role also provides direct leadership of university’s national security research communications portfolios including the National Security Research Institute (NSRI), ensuring disciplined, security-aware communications that advance defense-related research and partnerships.
Position Duties and Responsibilities
- Strategy & Planning: Convene research communicators across colleges to align strategies that maximize engagement. Build and own a multi-year marketing communications strategy that elevates RIO’s priorities and aligns with university strategic priorities.
- Editorial Leadership & Content: Serve as editor-in-chief for RIO: set voice, quality bar, and content strategy across web, social, video, print, and events.
- Media Relations & Issues Management: Drive proactive research media pipeline; co-lead issues response relevant to research with University Marketing Communications.
- Digital, Analytics & Product Ownership: Own RIO’s digital presence (sites, newsletters, social channels) and ensure accessibility and usability compliance.
- Team Leadership & Operations: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team.
- National Security Communications Leadership: Lead the national security communications program.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications: BA degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field, and at least 12 years of experience in strategic communications, public relations, or related fields. Proven ability to translate complex organizational strategy, research, and technical topics into compelling communication strategies. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. Extensive experience as a spokesperson and strategist. Ability to influence and build consensus among diverse stakeholders. Demonstrated success in leading, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams. Superior organizational and project management skills. Demonstrated experience making data-informed decisions.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience in higher education or in a research-focused communications role within a complex, matrixed organization. Vendor/contractor management experience.
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