Communications Director

The University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa, AL

Full-time - Mid Level

Tuscaloosa, AL

Educational Services

About the position

The Communications Director at the University of Alabama System Office is responsible for developing and executing communication strategies that align with the organization's goals. This role involves managing the Office of Communications, providing strategic counsel on public relations matters, and serving as a liaison for media relations. The Director will also engage in research and analysis to inform communication efforts and will be expected to be available for urgent matters outside of regular hours.

Responsibilities

• Collaboratively define impactful communication strategies for UA System initiatives and execute communications plans to achieve organizational goals
• Develop strategic communications content, including statements, news releases, briefings, speeches and talking points
• Provide strategic counsel and effectively address public relations matters
• Serve as a media relations liaison
• Engage in research and analysis of news, social and non-traditional media to evaluate communications and identify matters of interest related to current events and developments in the higher education industry
• Willingness to be available outside of regularly scheduled hours, as warranted by urgent matters

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and eight (8) years of journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience; OR master's degree and six (6) years of journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience
• Advanced writing and critical-thinking skills for clear and concise communication
• Demonstrated success in leading and managing public relations initiatives
• Experience with media relations, proactive issues management and crisis communications
• Ability to strategically assess priorities and effectively manage multiple complex activities in a time-sensitive environment while maintaining a commitment to excellence
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Generous vacation, personal, sick and holiday leave
• Access to matching contributions in a 403(b) supplemental retirement plan
• Tuition assistance program for employees, their spouses and eligible dependents
• Life insurance