The Director of University Communications is responsible for planning, developing and managing the implementation of a global, integrated communications strategy for Hampton University that presents a consistent, compelling, and accurate account of the people and programs of the university to relevant audiences in the region, the United States, and around the world. (S)/he will collect and disseminate all information by and about the university as part of an integrated, omnichannel marketing strategy, working with local, regional, national, and industry media outlets to gain exposure for the university. The Director will develop and organize the communications calendar, set project deadlines, and establish operational objectives.(S)/he creates content for various media and communications tools, such as press releases, newsletters, executive communications, websites, presentations, and marketing collateral, to ensure consistent branding and messaging. This position will ensure that all communications are strategically pitched, consistent, reliable, and in compliance with industry standards and university brand guidelines.

Additional responsibilities include receiving, reviewing, and compiling reports from all senior communications team leads, as well as giving briefings on the progress of our media strategy. (S)/he will provide oversight and guidance to communications staff members, ensuring that all activities are successfully executed in an efficient and coordinated manner.

Job Duties:

• Manage the implementation of a comprehensive long-term communications strategy across multiple channels and setting operational goals.
• Monitor the development, implementation, and successful integration of all communications plans across eight (8) Schools, the Hampton University Proton Cancer Institute; Alumni Communications; and Web Services.
• Oversee cross-department communications and resolve any communications issues as they arise.
• Coordinate and/or collaborate with faculty, committees, departments, programs, and colleges to assess needs and identify available resources.
• Support content authors to ensure work product reflects the overall mission of the institution.
• Provide support, guidance, and mentorship to student interns and junior staff.
• Create, receive and review reports on the progress of our communications campaigns.
• Manage the flow of both internal and external communications across multiple channels.
• Ensure that all communications comply with brand guidelines and university policy.

Qualifications:  

• High comfort level driving action in ambiguous or evolving situations, processes new information quickly and adjusts strategies; accordingly, displays situational adaptability.
• Possesses excellent professional maturity, sound judgment, good analytical skills and the ability to make quality decisions to protect the university’s reputation when necessary.
• Expert proficiency and demonstrated skills in integrated marketing project management.
• Ability to be detail oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to supervise and train employees.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to represent the Division or chair committees, councils, and task forces.

Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communications, Public Relations or a related field such as Print or Broadcast Journalism or Marketing.
• 10 years of work experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree
• Educational and/or professional experience at R1 University.
• Direct experience in organizational and cultural change.
• Direct experience in a technology driven environment.
• Direct experience working with government, fundraising, and/or scientific audiences.