Chief Communications Strategist

Job Title: Director of Communications

As a key member of the University of Virginia's College at Wise team, the Director of Communications will be responsible for crafting compelling narratives that elevate the institution's reputation. The successful candidate will possess exceptional storytelling skills, sharp news judgment, and the ability to navigate crisis management scenarios with ease.

Key Responsibilities:

Content Creation and Curation:

• Develop a strategic approach to storytelling that aligns with the university's broader goals and objectives.
• Collaborate with colleagues to educate them on institutional storytelling strategies and encourage contributions to support overall content strategies.
• Monitor and measure the impact of communications strategies to refine and improve storytelling approaches.

Sharing Content with Partners:

• BUILD RELATIONSHIPS with local, regional, and national reporters, editors, and producers to secure regular news coverage aligned with organizational objectives.
• OVERSEE the preparation, production, and distribution of information to the media and the public, including researching, writing, and approving major press releases and announcements.
• RESPOND to media inquiries and coordinate interviews with campus leaders as needed.
• ADVISE faculty and institutional leaders on media presence and presentation.
• MONITOR news coverage and media mentions.

Assisting with Crisis Communication:

• Provide guidance on crisis communications and respond to sensitive or controversial issues.
• Stay up-to-date on best practices in higher education and other industries to ensure a contemporary approach to issues management and crisis communications.

Requirements:

A bachelor's degree in English, communications, or a related field is required, as is five years or more of experience in content curation and production. Familiarity with Associated Press style and the ability to publish stories to a content management system, email client, and social media are preferred.

A collaborative style, collegiality, and respect, along with a propensity to coach others, are essential. The ability to balance media inquiries and longer-term strategic communication content is necessary. A passion for storytelling, excitement for news, and a commitment to the principles of higher education's role in our region are essential.

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