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Loyola University Chicago

Associate Director of External Communication

Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290


Position DetailsJob Title:

Associate Director of Communication

Position Number:

8102527

Job Category:

University Staff

Job Type:

Full-Time

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Campus:

Chicago-Water Tower Campus

Department Name:

UNIV MARKETING & COMMUNICATION

Location Code:

UNIVERSITY MARKETING & COMMUNICATION

Is this split and/or fully grant funded?

No

Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe Associate Director of External Communication reports to the Assistant Vice President for Communication, is a member of the Communications Team, and oversees one direct report. The Associate Director is a skilled strategist who leads proactive media relations in service of the University’s mission and reputation.

The Associate Director will have a clear focus on proactive and innovative storytelling in collaboration with the larger marketing and communication team and the department’s strategic plan and brand pillars.

This mission-critical role plays a key part in expanding awareness of Loyola University Chicago and differentiating its unique position as a leader in higher education based on academic excellence and Jesuit, Catholic educational methods and values.

The Associate Director will seek earned media opportunities with priority schools and divisions; build quality working relationships with media; collaborate with and support integrated marketing campaigns; monitor and assess media coverage and share relevant reports; leverage media coverage internally and externally working with social media managers and others; and advocate for maximizing media coverage across other areas such as Enrollment Marketing, Office of the Provost, and Office of the President. The Associate Director will train community members to work with media, develop and place op-eds with key media outlets, and conduct effective interviews. The Associate Director will serve as a source, resource, and professional guide to journalists from Loyola’s student media, including the Phoenix newspaper and Rambler Report newscast. The Associate Director will also provide strategic counsel to Assistant Vice President and University leadership in issues management situations – and serve a key role in responding to issues.

Minimum Education and/or Work ExperienceBachelor’s degree required in Journalism, Communications, or related field; advanced degree in Business, Marketing, or Communications preferred. Significant background, 5-8 years, in Public or Media Relations, Marketing, or related communications experience.

QualificationsExcellent written and verbal communications skills with adaptive writing agility for a variety of mediums (i.e., news releases, social, web, and other copy for relevant platforms to maximize earned media coverage and content. Well-versed in evolving media landscape and contemporary best practices and working knowledge of vendor tools like Cision, Businesswire, etc. Proficient or in solid command of in Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, Excel, etc., Zoom and others. Working knowledge of social media channel deployment (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn), and Sprout Social or other social media management, distribution and monitoring or listening platforms. Proven success in PR pitching and high-profile media placements; active media network with focus on regional and national news and higher education. Ability to collaborate with various teams including advancement, UMC, Student Development, HR, President’s office, Provost’s office, deans, special events, Graduate and Professional Enrollment Management, etc. Demonstrated project management skills and ability to manage various deadline-driven projects simultaneously. Superior interpersonal skills and ability to coordinate activities productively with functions and units outside his/her/their own sphere of control to ensure successful communication of desired messages. Sophisticated in people management and a passion for mentoring, career pathing, and professional development. High ethical standards and integrity required.

Diversity and Inclusion StatementDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion: As one of the nation’s largest Jesuit, Catholic universities, Loyola University Chicago fosters a transformative cultural experience that honors diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to not only recruiting, but also retaining a diverse, mission driven workforce and enabling a culture of inclusiveness in an environment that values service excellence, stewardship, personal well-being, and professional development for all of our employees. Loyola University Chicago supports its staff and faculty with a wide array of affordable, comprehensive and competitive benefits centered on health and wellness, financial security, equity, and work-life balance. We actively seek those who wish to join our faculty, staff, and students in a community of diverse opinions, perspectives, and backgrounds supporting our Jesuit mission and striving toward the same goal of being persons for and with others.

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