Communications and Community Initiatives Manager - Strategic Communication and Branding

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree or equivalent in a related field and five (5) years’ experience in community engagement, project management, and/or public relations. An equivalent combination of education and experience relevant to the role may be considered for this position. 

Job Summary: 

This role works independently to support the strategic priorities, including the planning, implementation, and evaluation of community partnerships, special programs, and strategic communications by employing a broad range of administrative direction, project management, and community engagement skills. Position includes direct communication with target audiences, as well as activities that facilitate communication by the Dean, Chair, Center/Institute Director, or other specified program, as well as program management. Conduct operations successfully with diverse individuals, maintaining confidentiality, with minimal direct supervision, and in-depth knowledge of the operations of the academic units and overall knowledge of the university. 

Scope: School-wide strategic reach and institution-wide visibility and interaction

Job Duties:

Direction of Programs: 

• Leads and serves as point of contact for communications activities in line with specific research programs and community outreach efforts, in coordination with the institutional Strategic Communications and Branding team.
• Assist in data collection and input for annual reports 
• Exercises independent judgment, seeking appropriate counsel, to initiate follow-up with faculty, staff, and students to ensure all activities are accomplished in a timely manner 
• Exhibits consistency and dependability as well as the ability to assess sense of urgency in decision making and problem solving for successful outcomes. 
• Exercise flexibility to accommodate hours and days to accomplish the administrative needs of the Dean, Chair, or Center/Institute Director. 
• Develop and maintain an internal and external benchmark repository 
• Manage and support special programs 

Direction of Internal and External Communications: 

• Oversees major correspondence with responsibility for ensuring accuracy and timeliness of communication and responses. 
• Maintains a broad organizational perception to effectively carry out the internal and external relationships of the office. 
• Prepares and coordinates the development and production of executive presentations/talking points/opening remarks for speaking engagements, legislative testimony, development activities, and similar high-profile events, including executive-level events. 
• Reviews communications for accuracy, clarity of content, and overall continuity.
• Coordinates with the VP of Marketing and Media Communications on media and publication matters, both internal and external. 
• In collaboration with UTMB Strategic Communications and Branding, School or Department or Center/Institute executive leadership, and UTMB Development Office: 
  • Assist in developing a comprehensive communication plan related to a variety of priorities, initiatives, and events. 
  • Assist in the coordination of fundraiser events, including meetings, minutes, publicity, budget management, and correspondence. 
  • Provide building tours and history to potential donors/alumni, as requested. 
• Plan, produce, and distribute internal and external communications regarding emergencies and crises with potential to affect operations and/or reputation. 
• Proactively manage content of websites (develop and update content – webmaster) and social media accounts targeted to news media, internal/external audiences, potential students, and potential faculty/staff. 
• Produce content for internal communications initiatives such as email newsletters, including news articles, feature stories, and Q&A interviews, and assist with creation in email distribution platforms, such as Constant Contact. 
• Compose, edit, and develop talking points/scripts, messages, written communications, presentations, background sheets, and other strategic communications and supporting materials as appropriate. 
• Develop and implement marketing and branding initiatives, strategies, and materials, including the establishment and maintenance of a strong social media presence. 
• Primary composer, and editor of the Dean, Chair, or Center/Institute Directors presentations and written communications. 
• Develop and maintain a published annual report.

Direction of Institutional Collaborations: 

• May assist Dean, Chair or Center/Institute Director in developing both short- and long-range strategic initiatives and opportunities 
• As directed, serves at the request of the Dean, Chair, or Center/Institute Director on UTMB and external committees and advisory boards, as appropriate. Professionally serves to represent the School/Center/Institute to increase positive visibility, maintain strategic partnerships, and overall productive exposure of UTMB. 

Executive Level Support and Direction: 

• Provides high-level administrative support; prepares agenda, presentations and works with the Dean, Chair or Center/Institute Director to develop committee structure and by-laws changes as needed. 
• Performs highly responsible administrative responsibilities while maintaining confidentiality, including independent problem solving, project planning and coordination; liaison with all entities and agencies to facilitate interactions; production of agendas and minutes for distribution in a timely manner; and coordinating and planning to ensure advance preparation for meetings. 
• Responsible for directing the successful and timely execution of various projects related to supporting the functions and operations managed by the Dean, Chair or Center/Institute Director. 
• Exercises complete discretion and professional judgment. 
• Manages multiple competing priorities and deadlines independently and in an expeditious manner.
• Maintains professional growth and development and keeps abreast of the latest trends in areas of expertise. 
• Demonstrates accurate knowledge of relevant policies, rules, and regulations affecting decisions and interpretations. Remains alert to changes in regulations and responds promptly to meet them.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• High level of sensitivity to confidential information.
• Independent planning and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to maintain productivity and professionalism when working under multiple deadlines. 
• Competence with electronic media, including web content management system and social media. 
• Ability to work effectively and directly with people at all levels of the institution.
• Expertise with PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with design principles.

Salary Range:
Commensurate with experience.