Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations

About the position

The Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations at Columbia University is a leadership role focused on developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy to enhance the visibility of Columbia Engineering's scientific and research achievements. This position requires a skilled communicator with expertise in science communication, media relations, and digital engagement, aimed at engaging diverse audiences and amplifying the institution's global influence.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, research-based communication strategy in alignment with the institution’s mission and long-term goals.
• Collaborate with the Dean, faculty, and department heads to ensure media strategies support and enhance institutional priorities.
• Cultivate relationships with print, broadcast, and digital media to effectively position Columbia Engineering’s research and thought leadership.
• Identify and pitch high-impact stories that highlight the global significance of research initiatives, focusing on relevance and newsworthiness.
• Lead the development of original press releases, news stories, and feature articles, translating complex scientific discoveries into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
• Strategically create content for multi-platform use, including podcasts, multimedia productions, and social media, to amplify institutional reach.
• Partner with the Editorial Director to establish and oversee a comprehensive content calendar, aligning academic publications, research announcements, and key institutional milestones for consistent, high-impact communication.
• Act as the primary strategic liaison between the communications division and other key university entities, driving alignment in messaging and fostering collaboration across major cross-institutional initiatives.
• Oversee communications strategies for significant institutional events, initiatives, and announcements, ensuring cohesive and impactful messaging across all platforms.
• Convene and lead departmental communications directors from various departments to enhance coordination, establish best practices, and provide strategic guidance on effectively interfacing with the central communications office.
• Partner with the Executive Director and lead collaboration with internal and external creative teams—including designers, photographers, and editors—to ensure that projects achieve strategic communication objectives and uphold university-wide branding standards.
• Develop and establish comprehensive key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the impact and effectiveness of public relations and communication efforts across multiple channels.
• Lead the collection, analysis, and interpretation of both qualitative and quantitative data to identify trends, measure audience engagement, and inform decision-making.
• Utilize insights gained from data analysis to refine communication strategies, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and enhancing overall PR effectiveness.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement by establishing best practices for measuring success, reporting on outcomes to senior leadership, and recommending strategic adjustments to enhance public perception and audience reach.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree is required.
• At least 5 years of experience in marketing, strategic communications, or media relations.
• Service-oriented professional who demonstrates creativity, flexibility, and the ability to perform under time pressure.
• Strong strategic planning and implementation skills are essential, along with an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving.
• Effective communication skills are required, with the ability to engage a variety of stakeholders, including University administrators, faculty, alumni, students, and corporate/government professionals.
• Candidates must excel in coordinating multiple projects and managing staff within a team environment.

Nice-to-haves

• An advanced degree in sciences, science journalism, or a related field is preferred.
• 10-12 years of experience in science communications and media relations is preferred.
• Substantial experience in writing, editing, and public relations is necessary, with a proven track record in media relations and digital engagement, particularly in scientific or academic settings.
• Exceptional skills in communicating complex scientific concepts are preferred.
• Proficiency in digital content management systems and analytics is preferred.
• A deep understanding of the current media landscape is preferred.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, especially when working with high-profile scientists and institutional leaders, are preferred.

Benefits

• Open salary range based on qualifications and experience.
• Regular full-time position with a 35-hour work week.