Job Description
Communications Manager
The Office of the Vice Provost for Public Engagement (OVPPE) invites applications for the position of Communications Manager.
About the Position The Communications Manager is a strategic and hands-on leader responsible for all aspects of OPE and CCEL communications, marketing, and branding efforts. The Communications Manager ensures the alignment of OPE and CCELâ™s strategies with the Universityâ™s broader goals, supervises OPE communications staff, and collaborates with leadership teams, University Relations, and community partners. The individual in this role manages multiple projects, tight deadlines, and diverse audiences while maintaining a professional and consistent brand identity.
This position is full-time and offers a hybrid work environment, requiring 1-3 days of on-campus work per week.
Key Responsibilities Responsibilities related to OVPPE refer to the OPE and CCEL units unless otherwise specified.
Strategic Communications (40%) - Develop and execute a comprehensive communication and marketing strategy that aligns with OVPPE mission and University-wide branding policies.
- Provide strategic leadership on messaging related to OVPPE initiatives, including public engagement, community partnerships, and professional development programs.
- Serve as the primary communications advisor to OVPPE leadership, including the Vice Provost for Public Engagement and the directors of all four affiliated centers.
- Collaborate with University Relations and other communications professionals across the system to ensure that OVPPE messaging aligns with institutional priorities and standards.
- Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of communications campaigns across multiple platforms.
Content Creation and Media Relations (30%)
- Create, edit, and manage content for internal and external communications, including websites, newsletters, social media, reports, and promotional materials.
- Write and oversee the production of brief articles, speeches, press releases, and executive correspondence.
- Develop promotional materials such as brochures, banners, digital content, and interactive learning tools.
- Manage multimedia content, including videos, photography, and digital storytelling projects, to highlight OPEâ™s programs and impact.
- Cultivate relationships with media outlets and coordinate public and media relations efforts to amplify OPEâ™s visibility.
Project and Event Management (20%)
- Oversee communications for key OPE events, including the Public Engagement Conference and the Public Engagement Awards.
- Develop and manage event budgets, vendor contracts, and promotional materials.
- Lead marketing and branding efforts for events and professional development initiatives, such as the Community Engagement Summer Institute.
- Supervise the production and distribution of print and digital collateral for events and programs.
- Ensure smooth project execution by collaborating with internal teams and external stakeholders.
Leadership and Team Management (10%)
- Supervise communications staff, including a Communications Associate and student employees.
- Provide mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities for team members.
- Report on marketing and communications metrics (e.g., web analytics, email open rates).
- Build and maintain partnerships with University departments, community organizations, and external vendors.
- Act as a consultant to internal and external stakeholders, offering expertise on communications strategies and implementation related to OVPPE mission.
Required Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- BA/BS degree in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field.
- At least six years of professional experience in marketing, communications, or public relations, with demonstrated success in managing complex projects.
Skills and Competencies:
- Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling abilities tailored to diverse media and audiences.
- Proficiency in managing websites, social media platforms, and email marketing tools.
- Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Ability to create and implement strategic marketing and communications plans.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and independently.
- Experience in brand management and public relations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in higher education or similar institutional environments.
- Knowledge of the University of Minnesota systems, procedures, and branding guidelines.
- Commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion through communications practices.
- Proficiency with tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Google Workspace, and data analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Qualtrics).
- Familiarity with managing multimedia content and event marketing.
About University of Minnesota Twin Cities
The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.
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Job Tags
Full time, Summer work,