Communications specialist for the Provost

**This position posting requires a cover letter, resume and three writing samples . The writing samples can be submitted as links in the document section.**

Position Summary

The communications specialist oversees and manages communication strategies for the Office of the Provost and Office of the Vice President for Research. The objective is to develop and implement effective communications strategies, activities, programs and services to meet organizational objectives. S/he supports the provost and the vice president for research in achieving objectives for the university by creating and deploying integrated communications strategies. The versatile communications specialist produces magazine articles, features, brochures, press releases, newsletters, Web pages, marketing collateral and other types of materials. In addition, the communications specialist creates unique messages and copy to advance the brand and marketing, and edits copy for accuracy, effectiveness and Rice style.

Salary

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications

Essential Functions

- Responsible for overseeing strategic communication plans to meet organizational objectives for the Office of the Provost and Office of the Vice President for Research.
- Researches, conceptualizes and writes compelling copy for informational, promotional and public relations projects to support university initiatives and objectives.
- Writes and edits communications on behalf of the provost and vice president for research.
- Edits copy for accuracy, effectiveness and Rice AP style.
- Produces magazine articles, features, brochures, press releases, newsletters, Web pages, marketing collateral and other types of materials.
- Writes copy or repurposes content for the web and social media.
- Creates unique messages and copy to advance the brand and marketing.
- Participates in university wide initiatives and cross-functional teams to establish the organization as a strategic partner and thought leader.
- Provides guidance to others.
- Acts as a project manager for special project in conjunction with Dean of Undergraduates, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, and Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.
- Manages all digital content for the Office of the Provost and Office of Research websites, electronic communications and social media.
- Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in English, liberal arts, communications, journalism, or related field
• 5 years related experience in communications, public relations, writing, or related field
• Demonstrated writing skills that translate complex subjects into understandable, accurate and concise laypersons terms
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work in a deadline-driven, results-oriented environment with a wide variety of team members, such as graphic designers, web developers, media and PR professionals, marketers and publication producers, and with a wide variety of clients, including the administration, faculty, students, alumni, donors and the news media
• Organizational skills and creativity
• Analytical problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of AP style
• Ability to coordinate projects, determine priorities, set deadlines and complete projects accordingly
• Proven ability to create engaging written content across platforms

Preferences

• Work experience in higher education

Rice University HR | Benefits

https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels, and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

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