Senior Communications Specialist

Role: Senior Communications Specialist

Duration: 12 month contract

Hours: 40/hrs per week

Location: Boston - Hybrid 3 days onsite

Reporting to the Director of Communications within ITS and collaborating closely with the ITS Communications team, this seasoned professional will oversee the daily execution of communications, mentor team members, and ensure that all messaging aligns with the university's strategic goals and standards.

This is a temporary contract role ideal for a highly experienced communications professional who thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. The ideal candidate brings strategic insight, operational excellence, meticulous attention to detail, and deep expertise in IT and/or higher education communications. Success in this role requires agility, resilience, and the ability to lead through uncertainty and change.

Key Responsibilities

• Communications Operations & Quality Assurance (40%)
  Lead the daily planning and execution of user-focused communications that engage and inform university audiences about IT services and digital initiatives.
• Oversee communications supporting IT change initiatives, service launches, incident response, and ongoing operations.
• Ensure all materials meet quality, brand, and strategic standards.
• Partner with the ITS Communications Operations Manager to monitor schedules, prioritize work, and allocate resources effectively.
• Maintain and continuously improve editorial and quality control processes.
• Collaborate with ITS teams and campus stakeholders to align messages and strategies.
• Work closely with web, UX, marketing, knowledge management, and change management functions to ensure cohesive communications.
• Content Development & Execution (40%)
  Develop and implement communication strategies for major technology projects, system rollouts, and organizational change initiatives.
• Translate complex technical topics into engaging, accessible messages for diverse audiences.
• Create content across multiple channels—including email, web, digital signage, presentations, and events.
• Write and edit high-impact materials such as executive messages, major announcements, and sensitive communications.
• Craft compelling narratives that connect technology initiatives to institutional priorities and end-user benefits.
• Build communication frameworks, templates, and toolkits to promote consistency and efficiency.
• Strategic Communications Leadership (20%)
  Partner with the Director and IT leadership to define and refine ITS communications strategy.
• Advise leaders and key stakeholders on communications best practices, timing, and engagement approaches.
• Contribute to creative and strategic direction for the unit, bringing fresh ideas and industry insights.
• Manage critical, high-visibility communications such as crisis updates, major incidents, and executive messaging.
• Anticipate communication challenges and proactively develop mitigation strategies.
• Represent the communications function in strategic discussions and planning efforts.

Required Qualifications

• Experience & Expertise:
  Proven success in communications or a related field within an IT or higher education environment.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute strategic communications for complex technology or change initiatives.
• Experience managing large-scale communications campaigns from concept to delivery.
• Strong understanding of IT service delivery, change management, and incident management.
• Technical Skills:
  Ability to quickly understand technical concepts and communicate them clearly for non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency with CMS platforms, email marketing tools, and collaboration technologies.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel) and project collaboration software.
• Familiarity with AI tools for both daily workflow productivity and broader organizational transformation.
• Experience leveraging AI to enhance communications effectiveness.
• Communication & Leadership:
  Exceptional writing and verbal communication skills with a strong editorial eye.
• Proven ability to create compelling, audience-specific messages across multiple channels.
• Skilled at communicating about AI, emerging technologies, and digital innovation in ways that foster understanding and adoption.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards and inclusive communication practices.
• Strong leadership and influencing skills, with the ability to build trust and alignment across diverse teams.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach.
• Self-directed, organized, and comfortable navigating complex, matrixed organizations.
• Personal Attributes:
  Passionate about higher education and the role of technology in advancing institutional success.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a strong commitment to quality.
• Adaptable, resilient, and calm under pressure.
• Balances urgency with accuracy and thoroughness.
• Comfortable working with ambiguity and making informed decisions with incomplete information.
• Creative problem-solver who combines analytical rigor with innovative thinking.
• Committed to continuous learning and staying current on communication and technology trends.
• Flexible, dependable, and willing to work outside regular hours during critical events.
• Empathetic leader who values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration.