Director of Communication and External Relations

Position Information

University Code 13914 University Title Senior Administrator 1, Communications University Job Family Communications ORP Eligible Yes For more information on ORP, visit: Retirement Plans
Recruitment Pool All Applicants Recruitment Type Single Title Scope of Search National Working Title Director of Communication and External Relations Position Number FAC920 Is this employee on a H1B Visa? Position Type Staff Job Status Full-Time FLSA Indicator Exempt Employee Group University Employee Department Wilder Sch Of Govt & Public Affairs Organizational Overview

At VCU, we Make it Real through learning, research, creativity, service and discovery — the hallmarks of the VCU experience. A premier, urban, public research university nationally recognized as one of the best employers for diversity, VCU is a great place to work. It’s a place of opportunity, where your success is supported and your career can thrive. VCU offers employees a generous leave package, career paths for advancement, competitive pay, and an opportunity to do mission-driven work.

Position Primary Purpose and General Responsibilities

The Director of Communications and External Relations is responsible for the School’s internal and external communication, marketing, and events. This individual will work closely with the Associate and Assistant Deans and Directors, faculty, and staff as well as collaborate with the University Communications Office to meet strategic internal and external goals through print and digital collateral, news releases, feature and web content, advertising, and online and social media. The director manages activities and staff, and develops and leads a communications and marketing strategy focused at the local, state, national and international levels, and manages all related activities and staff to 1) advance the public’s awareness of an engagement with the School; 2) support initiatives of the school; 3) develop and refine the School brand (including print, web, and new media materials); 4) refine communications products and services that help to achieve the School’s mission and strategic goals and; 5) support annual and signature event programming and production.

Minimum Hiring Standards

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications or related field with demonstrated and proven experience as a communications media and public relations leader or experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree
• At least seven years of progressive professional communications experience and a portfolio of communications work
• The successful candidate must have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of outreach and engagement as well as all media and channels, equally able to set proactive strategy throughout the year and quickly identify and leverage real-time events
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as an employee at VCU
• Significant knowledge and understanding of communications principles, current trends in the profession, and the state of the field
• Experience leading a small communications unit with many and diverse responsibilities. Ability to provide leadership to staff, securing their commitment to the Wilder School and Virginia Commonwealth University
• Demonstrated skill, knowledge, and ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Strategic, innovative, and prudent utilization of fiscal resources
• A professional demeanor and experience in handling crisis or sensitive communication
• Highly collaborative style, ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, and the public
• Proven ability to work within a fast-paced, high-charge environment
• Proven ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Proven experience with communications tools, databases, and systems, including web development
• Ability and willingness to travel as a member of the school’s senior leadership team
• Ability to lift or carry objects weighing more than 10 pounds.

Preferred Hiring Standards

• Master’s Degree in Communications or related field
• Knowledge and experience in working with national public affairs professional associations
• Proven record of leadership at shaping communications practices at an accredited college or university
• Knowledge of familiarity with innovative marketing tools and applications technology; proficiency in graphic design software applications.

Required Licenses/ Certifications Anticipated Hiring Range $69,300 - $86,000 Application Process/Additional Information

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For additional information about the Wilder School please visit our website at www.wilder.vcu.edu.

All applications should be submitted at https://www.vcujobs.com/and should include a cover-letter and a detailed CV with the names and contact information of three references.

“Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action university providing access to education and employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, veteran’s status, political affiliation or disability.”

Campus Monroe Park Campus Hours/Week 40 Normal Work Days/Hours M-F, 9-5:30 and some weekends Job Open Date 12/15/2020 Posting will close on or before Open Until Filled Yes Job Category Administrative/ Secretarial/ Clerical Is this a restricted position? No Is this position eligible to participate in alternative work arrangements? Yes Sensitive Position No Resource Critical No Quick Link https://www.vcujobs.com/postings/102360 Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Optional & Required Documents
Required Documents

1. Cover Letter/Letter of Application
2. Resume

Optional Documents