Job Description
The Director of Communications Strategy works closely with the assistant vice president for communications in the overall administration of the Office of Communications. The office, with 26 talented and creative professionals, is responsible for the distribution of news and information about the University, the content and design of University's home page, media relations, digital communications (including social media), print and web design, publications, visual communications, and other initiatives.
Principal responsibilities:
Working with the AVP, other Communications managers and other offices, the director of communications strategy plays a leadership role in developing, coordinating and implementing communication strategy within Communications and University-wide. The director leads high-level projects and tasks for the office as assigned by the AVP.
The Director of Communications strategy helps direct, prepare, edit and review University news and promotional content, including news and feature stories, videos, photography, social media, graphic design, publications and other materials.
The Director serves as the office's primary manager of responses to commercial and other external requests to use the University's name, images, logo and other marks. The director represents the office on the University Trademarks and Licensing Committee.
The Director coordinates and updates the Office of Communications emergency response and continuity of operations plans, plus other similar documents or plans as assigned.
Working with the AVP and office manager, the Director oversees preparation and administration of the Office of Communications budget in a fiscally responsible manner and in accordance with University policy.
The Director is in charge of the Office of Communications when the AVP is absent.
Essential Qualifications - A bachelor's degree and at least 8 years of successful experience in communications/journalism, preferably in a leadership or managerial role.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex tasks under significant time pressures in multi-stakeholder settings.
- Successful experience managing, motivating, and supervising a team of talented communications/media professionals.
- Facility with digital implementation of communications strategies, including through web, mobile and social media and demonstrated adaptability as media channels evolve over time.
- Ability to communicate in writing and orally clearly, compellingly, and quickly. Must have relevant crisis and issues management experience and skills.
- Proven ability to build relationships to work effectively with and influence and provide strategic counsel and practical advice to key stakeholders, team members, and senior leadership.
- Strong presentation skills with a proven ability to communicate effectively with a diverse group of people and audiences.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in handling confidential information and material.
The final candidate will be required to pass a background check.
Preferred Qualifications - Knowledge of and affinity with colleges and universities and their characteristics and missions, and especially Princeton or institutions of a comparable nature.
- Knowledge of national and international issues of particular concern to colleges and universities.
- An appreciation of Princeton's commitments to excellent teaching and research, diversity and affordability, and leadership and service.