Associate Director of Communications - Content

Associate Director of Communications - Content & Media Relations

Posting Number: R0005003
Location: Salem Campus

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Please read the following carefully before beginning the online application process.

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Position Summary:
The Associate Director of Communications serves as the Office of Communications' chief content creator, which includes developing story ideas, conducting interviews, writing copy, and managing the day-to-day posting of stories.

The Associate Director will also help manage the external communications needs of the university by engaging in day-to-day relations with the media.

Reasonable Accommodations Statement:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Develop, in coordination with the Director of Communications and the VP for Communications, key messages and stories, and make recommendations on content development that best supports the university's mission and strategic direction;
  
• Generate engaging content for multiple communications vehicles including e-newsletters, website, and other platforms as needed, taking care to ensure that the copy integrates Willamette's mission, position, messaging, and offerings into copy and visual content that support strategic and tactical goals;
  
• Collect, analyze, distill, and re-purpose complex information (such as faculty research) and identify compelling story angles;
  
• Support the development and maintenance of editorial calendars to keep communications timely and in line with strategic communication goals;
  
• Serve as primary editor of the university's daily bulletin, and support internal constituents in producing appropriate content;
  
• Respond to and follow through on requests for information from the media and the public, determining appropriate, accurate responses and appropriate university contacts for response;
  
• Work with Marketing to identify, capture, edit and produce compelling photography and video that advance university messaging and complement written content;
  
• Works with the Web Development team to create web pages and implement content;
  
• Exhibit initiative and creativity in the execution of individual projects and building partnerships with team members, distributed communicators, and internal units to support integrated communications efforts;
  
• Be an active participant in the university community and keep current on university news and events, and assist with signature events and initiatives;
  
• Performs other duties as assigned.
  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related discipline or equivalent combination of experience and education
  
• Five (5) or more years of experience in a professional communications role. The role must include writing and editing tasks using multiple communications tools were principal features;
  
• Knowledge of and/or deep curiosity about higher education is essential, as are independent thinking and initiative;
  
• Exceptional writing/editing skills that reflect the ability to convey complex issues on multiple topics for a range of audiences and purposes;
  
• Self-motivated, capable of managing multiple projects in a professional manner;
  
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and an understanding of how to use strategic messaging to support the mission and goals of the university;
  
• Excellent organization, management, and prioritization capabilities;
  
• Knowledge of expected computer software applications, including content management systems and website platforms;
  
• Ability to reside in or perform work primarily in Oregon.
  

Typical Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm.

*Oregon residents have the option for a hybrid work schedule with regular on-site work required, with approval of the supervisor.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Typical work is performed indoors in a normal office environment.

Salary: $60,000 - $65,000

Applications will reviewed on a rolling basis as received until the position is filled.

All University positions require that candidates submit to a criminal conviction record check prior to hire. Conviction does not automatically preclude candidates from being hired. Nature of conviction will be considered relative to the duties of the position.

You will need to upload the following two documents as part of your application materials in the "My Experience" section labeled Resume:

• Cover letter addressing the required/desired qualifications and presenting any other applicant characteristics which deserve emphasis
  
• Current Resume
  
• Minimum of three (3) writing samples
  

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.



Apply online at https://willamette.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/willametteuniversityjobs/job/Salem-Campus/Associate-Director-of-Communications---Content---Media-Relations_R0005003

Believing that diversity contributes to academic excellence and to rich and rewarding communities, WU is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse faculty, staff and student body. We seek candidates, particularly those from historically under-represented groups, whose work furthers diversity and who bring to campus varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds.





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