Job Information
University of Southern Mississippi Associate Director of Communications & Engagement in Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Associate Director of Communications & Engagement
The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Associate Director of Communications & Engagement.
Position Details
Location Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States
Division VP External Affairs
Position Type Staff
Employment Status Full Time
Grant Funded No
Pay Grade
E10
Posting Close Date Until filled.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Candidates will need to upload three samples of writing across formal, news and social media communications.
Job Summary
Manages all communication and engagement initiatives for the Office of Strategic Communications for Advancement, bringing alumni and donor stories to life through written communication, public relations programs and social media platforms. Collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to deploy projects tailored to engage, enhance perception and strengthen connections with alumni, donors and friends of the University.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Leads the content and story direction for campaign development, communication initiatives, ultimately delivering final products that are in line with the strategy and brand.
Manages and directs content for quarterly and annual publications, including conducting interviews, background research, writing, proofreading and editing. Works with campus representatives to generate stories and meet deadlines as needed.
Leads & manages social media strategy across all accounts and collaborates with team for implementation. This includes managing a content calendar, working across campus units to generate content ideas and collaborating with the Associate Director of Multimedia & Storytelling to present stories in a way that resonates with donors, alumni and friends of the University.
Collaborates with a multidisciplinary team for concept, design supervision, content generation and production of all communication materials while adhering to a calendar that includes all relevant channels, techniques and constituencies. This includes all written content for print, digital, environmental and collateral, including campaigns, direct mail, presentations, websites, etc. to meet departmental objectives.
Collaborates on management of all website content, continuously monitoring the integrity of the information. Produces and deploys email marketing plans as directed by campaigns and needs. Works with team on designing and implementing interactive pages for special events and captures up-to-date alumni and donor data as needed.
Manages style guides for both the Foundation and Alumni Association, maintaining that voice for both organizations is on brand and consistent with University goals.
Ensures a robust pipeline of information is disseminated about fundraising and alumni activities and opportunities, special events, impact stories and other priorities.
Provides subject matter-related expertise to guide the team in maximizing its contribution to both the Foundation and Alumni Association.
Collaborates with team on content review of all projects before presentation or publication.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in English, business marketing, mass communications, public relations or related field. Three years of related experience in the field of communications, public relations or related field including experience in social and digital media management, content generation and copy writing. Must be able to provide a sample of work to include social media management, writing for conversation and media, feature stories or more.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Employees of this position are prohibited from disclosing confidential and proprietary information of alumni, donors and prospects, the Foundation, the Alumni Association, the University and its employees or students. This confidentiality obligation is effective while employed in this position and continues after termination of employment.
Team player and capable of sharing and delegating work load during peak times of the year
Good attention to details and the ability to review content and publications before finalized.
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to collaborate on feature stories for print or digital content through visual and written word.
Ability to cross-train as needed
Reliable and punctual
Motivated and enthusiastic
Honest and cooperative
Professional and respectful
Able to travel; work before and after normal business hours, including occasional weekends as necessary or when warranted
Passionate about the University and able to speak enthusiastically about it
Ability to effectively plan and carry out a project through to successful completion
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions
Results-driven to accomplish individual and team goals
Ability to establish goals and objectives; accountable for results
Skill in managing one’s own time
Ability to analyze, organize and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines
Must be detail oriented and timely with all required notes, files, and documentation
Preferred Qualifications
Five years of related experience in the field of communications, public relations or related field. Proficient in understanding social media platforms, web-based modules, content creating software, Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook, and iModules Encompass Software (website). Experience in a higher education environment and/or non-profit communication.
About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.