Assistant Director, Special Programs (17815)

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About the Department/Unit

American University’s School of Communication (AU SOC) welcomes applicants to join its creative and dynamic team of professionals. Our community is committed to the mission of engaging the most pressing issues of our time through teaching, scholarship, and professional experiences in communication and media in Washington and beyond. SOC empowers undergraduates and graduates in its programs to tell stories that influence change, inspire action, and transform our communities and our world. Faculty are leaders in their fields, contributing scholarly, creative and professional work in communication studies, film and media arts, journalism, and public communication. We know that teams perform best when they are diverse, and every team member feels that they belong. The unique contributions of SOC employees drive our success, and we are committed to building a culture where everyone has an opportunity to do meaningful work. Learn more about SOC at american.edu/soc/

Summary/Objective

The Assistant Director of Special Programs is responsible for managing School of Communication (SOC) strategic programming and select revenue generating projects with external partners for the School. They are responsible for assisting in the development, coordination, and implementation of new and existing SOC signature programs and partnerships, such as its summer high school and Dean’s Interns programs. The Assistant Director coordinates the full range of exciting special program and event logistics and budgets, supervises part time program staff, and facilitates ongoing evaluation of strategic programs. This position provides technical direction to stakeholders, acting as a liaison to program partners, faculty, and SOC leadership.

Essential Functions

1. Program management and assessment: Assists with management and oversight of multiple programs, oversees daily operations, program expenditures/budgets, and coordinates the activities of SOC strategic programs with the Dean’s Office and stakeholders. Performs administrative duties commensurate with the requirements of the organization, including data gathering, metrics and reports, implementing project timelines and programmatic budgets. Meets with stakeholders to discuss program status and goals.
2. Communication and marketing:Works with internal and external stakeholders to develop and execute communications plan for prospective students/participants in SOC strategic program offerings. Work with SOC and AU’s communication and outreach team on promotional, marketing and outreach strategies for programs and strategic partnerships.
3. Partnership development and support:Work with SOC Dean’s Office, academic programs, and faculty to develop and execute new SOC strategic and revenue programs. Assist with administration of memorandums of agreement (MOA) and partnership contracts.
4. Supervision: Oversees cross-functional part-time teams, including part-time and student staff assistants and consultants. Coordinates with SOC faculty on delivering of content.
5. Other duties as assignedto contribute to SOC strategic priorities.

Work Environment

• On campus position; may be eligible for hybrid work schedule.
• Some flexible hours (evening and weekend) are required to support programming and events.
• Some episodic program travel may be needed.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Full Time, 35 hours/week.
• Sr. Coordinator/Analyst B,
• Exempt.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree
• 1-3 years of relevant experience
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office suite required.

Preferred Education and Experience

• 2-4 years of relevant experience
• Experience working in educational setting is desirable.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Proven excellent interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills and ability to effectively present information and respond to questions.
• Demonstrated adaptability when required to meet multiple shifting priorities, and rapid change.
• Proven strong attention to detail with excellent organizational skills to manage and prioritize workload demands.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills and an understanding of providing excellent customer service in a fast paced environment.
• Ability to work under limited supervision.
• Basic knowledge of finance and budget tracking.
• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• To ensure the health and safety of our community AU requires COVID-19 vaccinations for faculty and staff. Click here to learn more about our health and safety directive .

Others

• Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite.Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options .

Current American University Employees

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Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu .

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

Nearest Major Market: Washington DC