OR&I Director of Communications / Senior Communications Manager/S

Michigan State University - East Lansing, MI

Full-time - Senior

Remote - East Lansing, MI

Educational Services

About the position

The OR&I Director of Communications at Michigan State University is a senior-level role responsible for leading strategic communications efforts for the Office of Research and Innovation. This position involves developing and executing communication plans to enhance the research reputation of the university, advising leadership on communications, and managing a cross-functional team of communication professionals. The Director will play a key role in aligning internal communication strategies with institutional goals and will represent the office in university-level meetings.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategy, guidance, and execution for executive level communications for the Vice President and other Research and Innovation leadership team members.
• Support the Vice President and executive team with implementation of the unit and MSU strategic plans.
• Work with unit leaders and their teams to identify and understand goals and establish priorities to deliver successful communication solutions.
• Advance MSU's central communications initiatives; coordinate and collaborate with University Communications and other central units.
• Develop, coordinate, and execute communications and marketing plans to inform, educate, engage, and inspire action among MSU research faculty, staff, and students.
• Cultivate communication opportunities for executive leadership and subject matter experts related to unit and university initiatives.
• Direct execution of multi-channel communication plans including vendor and freelancer relationships, production management, and coordination of asset placement.
• Oversee development and implementation of high-quality communication products including websites, annual reports, promotional emails, and digital content.
• Facilitate events that serve the overall goals for the MAU, including conferences and training workshops.
• Serve as a public information officer answering public requests and directing media inquiries to appropriate unit subject matter experts.
• Oversee team operations and team member productivity, building a highly inclusive culture.
• Maintain awareness of university developments and standards that impact Research and Innovation.

Requirements

• Knowledge equivalent to a four-year college degree in English, professional writing, journalism, public relations, marketing, telecommunications, or a related field.
• Five to eight years of related and progressively more responsible work experience in a relevant field.
• Strong writing skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's level education in strategic communications or business administration.
• Higher education experience with an understanding of academic structure and governance.
• Experience in organizational or executive communications.
• Experience identifying audience needs and increasing engagement with internal stakeholders.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment with remote-friendly options.