Director of Public Relations Strategy

Position Information

Position Information

Present Position Number FP195W

Role Code Title Professional/Lecturer (Staff) Position Title Director of Public Relations Strategy Unit Mission Statement

University Communications (UC) serves as William & Mary's central communications office. The office is made up of three teams that support and promote the overall vision, mission and values of the university. The Media & Internal Relations Team includes the university spokesperson and leads national media outreach, response and strategy and emergency communications. The Web & Design Team provides a suite of services to support campus digital and print design needs and web communications support, including collaborative planning, concepts, design, strategy and communications tools. A newly developed Content & Strategy Team will lead public relations strategy, communications planning, storytelling, internal communications, social media and photography.

The unit is led by the Senior Associate Vice President for Communications and Chief Communications Officer (CCO). It is part of the division of University Strategy & Innovation, which includes University Communications, University Marketing, Undergraduate Admission and Financial Aid.

Position Summary

Overseeing the Content & Strategy Team, the Director will be responsible for public relations, content strategy, and communications strategic planning. This includes storytelling and photography across university platforms, including the W&M News and the flagship social media platforms.

As a member of the University Communications Leadership Team, the Director of Public Relations Strategy reports to the Chief Communications Officer (CCO). This position will work closely with the president and their leadership team and partner with University Marketing and communications professionals across the university.

The Senior Director will develop, implement and support integrated and university-wide strategic communications plans, public relations initiatives, event communications planning, and special projects. Working with the University Communications (UC) Leadership Team, this position will raise the university's visibility as a leading research institution and advance its reputation. Specifically, this position will be charged with developing an integrated content strategy across all UC platforms that identifies and articulates high-impact opportunities while maximizing the university's brand platform.

The position supervises an experienced group of communications employees, including writers for W&M News, research communications, internal communications, social media specialists, and the university photographer.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Extensive professional experience in public relations or a related field (typically 7-10 years).

Recent and progressive experience developing and leading cross-functional project teams from inception to completion.

Strong leadership skills, with the ability to affect, interpret and implement communication plans and strategies.

Demonstrated ability to identify short and long-range strategic goals and contribute to their achievement.

Creativity, discretion, and independent judgment, with excellent analytical, organizational, planning, strategic, conceptualization, .and problem-solving skills.

Exceptional writing and editing skills and demonstrated success in content strategy.

The ability to manage multiple relationships and projects concurrently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment; a great degree of flexibility, efficiency, and initiative in work style, especially under deadline constraints, with the proven ability to adapt to changes.

Exceptional interpersonal skills with a strong service-oriented approach, commitment to excellence, and the proven ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Knowledge of AP style.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with higher education communications professionals.

Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) through the Public Relations Society of America or other communications strategy/public relations certification.

Advanced knowledge of project management methodology and practices.

Advertised Pay Range Salary range is $100,000 to $120,000 University Salary Range U16 Department 530000 University Communications Location William & Mary Is the position remote work eligible? Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time) Remote Work Disclaimer

Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor's ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

Job Open Date 08/24/2023 Review Begin Date Job Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Employment Category Full Time Professional FLSA Exempt Position Term 12 Month - Continuing Special Application Instructions

Please include at least one writing sample with your application packet.

Conditions of Employment

This position has been designated as essential and may require reporting to work when the university is officially closed.

EEO Statement

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Background Check Statement

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

Benefits Summary Statement

William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https: // www. wm.edu/offices/hr/currentemployees/benefits/index.php

Supplemental Question

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Applicant Documents

Required Documents

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Cover Letter

Writing Sample

Optional Documents

Other Doc

Other 2