DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS

Duke University - Durham, NC

Full-time - Senior

Durham, NC

5,001-10,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Director of Communications at Duke University School of Medicine is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive internal and external communications strategy for the Department of Surgery. This role involves managing a team of communications professionals, overseeing content creation, and enhancing the department's public image through effective media relations and strategic messaging. The Director will work closely with senior leadership to align communications efforts with departmental goals and ensure consistent branding across various platforms.

Responsibilities

• Compose, edit, manage, and execute a strategic communications plan for the Department of Surgery.
• Provide leadership and direction to a team of communications professionals, including editors, medical illustrators, designers, and marketing professionals.
• Develop strategies to improve departmental communication channels for faculty, trainees, and staff.
• Align resources to provide consistent branding and voice across internal messaging, website, social media, and publications.
• Oversee the creation of original written content highlighting departmental news and achievements.
• Support the chair's office with internal communications needs and campaigns.
• Manage the department website and ensure content is current and relevant.
• Develop and implement a recruitment communications strategy for prospective trainees.
• Partner with external vendors for communications projects and social media strategy.
• Synthesize data to inform communications decision-making and contribute to the department's strategic plan.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, or a related discipline.
• At least 7 years of experience in writing, public relations, communications, or a related field.
• Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to convey information effectively to various audiences.
• Proven experience in social media management and content creation.
• Ability to lead and mentor a team of communications professionals.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in Communications, Publications, Marketing, Graphic Design, or Business Administration.
• Experience in healthcare communications or academic medical centers.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $108K - $137K per year.
• Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.
• Inclusive work environment that values diversity and collaboration.