Communications Manager (Comm Spec 4)

$92,000 - $172,000/Yr

University of California - Sacramento, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Sacramento, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The Communications Manager at the University of California, Davis, plays a pivotal role in coordinating and leading communication efforts for key initiatives and strategic projects within the Innovation and Economic Development Office (IEDO). This position focuses on driving impactful communications that highlight the university's transformative initiatives, working closely with unit leadership and external partners to ensure effective project execution. The role involves significant writing and editing responsibilities, supporting executive communications, and shaping the public image of the university's innovation efforts.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate communication efforts for key initiatives and projects within the IEDO.
• Support executive communication needs through strong writing and editing skills.
• Collaborate with campus colleagues and external partners to report project outcomes.
• Shape the public image of the university's innovation efforts through proactive media relations.
• Draft media talking points and responses to inquiries in coordination with Strategic Communications.
• Work closely with the Office of Strategic Communications to track progress on initiatives and report to leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent education/experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field.
• At least 5 years' experience in writing and editing with published stories across various topics.
• Demonstrated experience in creating strategic communications plans and measuring success.
• Proven ability to translate technical jargon into clear communication for diverse audiences.
• Experience with media relations, including media pitching and crisis communications.
• Strong collaborative skills to work with broad constituencies and achieve timely project completion.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in higher education or similar environments valuing collaboration and inclusiveness.
• Experience supporting executive communications efforts, including writing correspondence and talking points.
• Proven ability to translate complex language into compelling narratives for non-academic audiences.
• Experience in strategic and operational planning and program evaluation.

Benefits

• High quality and low-cost medical plans for employees and their families.
• UC pays for dental and vision insurance premiums.
• Extensive leave benefits including pregnancy and parental leave.
• Paid holidays and vacation/sick time as per UC policies.
• Continuing education allowance and education reimbursement program.
• Access to free professional development courses.
• On-site Employee Assistance Program with free mental health services.
• Supplemental insurance options including life and disability insurance.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Qualified Employer status.
• Retirement benefit options including pension and retirement savings plans.