Assistant Director, Executive Communications

The Assistant Director of Executive Communications supports the Office of the President. The Assistant Director manages executive communications for the University President, including letters, speeches, emails, newsletter articles, social media and other correspondence. This position collaborates on executive communication strategies that support the university's vision, mission, goals and objectives. The Assistant Director of Executive Communications produces high-quality professional communications that support the President's objectives and further enhances UHD's relationship with key stakeholders.

• Serves as the principal executive writer for the University President.
• May support the Office of University Relations with communication projects and writing assignments.
• Collaborates with Advancement and University Relations leadership in strategizing executive communications.
• Works to strengthen the Office of the President's relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• Staffs events for the Office of the President, supporting executive leadership.
• Functions as brand ambassador, ensuring key message points are incorporated in all executive communications, thereby preserving UHD's brand internally and externally.

• May have supervisory responsibilities
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Direct Reports:

• None

Delegation of Work:

• N/A

Supervision Given:

• N/A

Required Education:

• Baccalaureate degree in Communications, Writing, Journalism, English or a related field from an accredited higher education institution

Required Experience:

• Ten years job related professional writing experience.
• Experience in higher education, government or corporate communications

License/Certification:

• None

• Master's degree
• Experience in conducting research and completing writing assignments for upper-level administrators.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of higher education processes
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Software
• Knowledge of social media platforms including Twitter and LinkedIn
• Knowledge of email distribution platforms
• Knowledge of web content management systems

Skills:

• Strong speaking and interpersonal skills

Abilities:

• Ability to conduct research and write at an exceptional, professional level;
• Ability to establish consistent messaging content to achieve the highest level of excellence for internal and external executive communications;
• Ability to Effectively research and write across a range of communications vehicles (e.g., memoranda, remarks, briefings, presentations, policy documents, testimonies, op
  • eds, etc.);
• Ability to craft communications at a high volume using a tone/voice that complements UHD leadership;
• Ability to respond to communications
  • related issues in a timely manner;
• Ability to multitask and prioritize assignments; and
• Ability to collaborate with cross
  • functional groups across the organization
• Ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community

Primary Work Location:

• Works in an office environment. Some local travel required

Physical Demands:

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior work environment which does not subject the employee to any unpleasant elements.
• Position is physically comfortable; individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc.
• Occasional lifting, pushing, climbing, and pulling may be required.
• This position will require frequent attendance at off-campus events during non-standard business hours.
• Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks

Commitment to Excellence - UHD

• Demonstrates a commitment to competently perform his/her job duties and responsibilities within established time frames.
• Continuously strives to improve work performance.
• Accepts responsibility for his/her commitments to the university.
• Contributes to the success of the university by consistently providing quality results in the performance of his/her job duties and responsibilities.

Integrity

• Demonstrates high ethical standards of conduct in the performance of his/her job duties and responsibilities.
• Accepts responsibility for his/her actions.
• Respects and complies with department and university policies, procedures, and work rules.

Respect and Cooperation

• Treats others with courtesy, respect, and dignity in the workplace.
• Promotes cooperation through open and honest communications and consideration of others ideas, thoughts, and opinions.

Dependability

• Takes responsibility to accomplish job assignments within reasonable deadlines.
• Willing to accept new projects and/or commitments.
• Does due diligence to complete projects within specified timeframes and/or fulfill commitments.
• Arrives to work on time prepared and ready to contribute.

Flexibility

• Willingly adjusts to changing work assignments or conditions.
• Open to changes in operational procedures, technology, and/or organizational structure.
• Views changes as opportunities for learning and professional development.
• Displays a positive attitude to encourage others.
• Promptly responds to changes in work priorities and/or unexpected circumstances or situations.

Proficiency

• Possesses required job skills and knowledge.
• Demonstrates the ability to apply those skills and knowledge to competently perform his/her job duties and assignments.

Problem Solving

• Formulates plans and strategies to proactively resolve anticipated problems.
• Prudently responds to unforeseen problems through careful consideration and analysis of problem and relevant information and circumstances.
• Recognizes and apprises appropriate university administrator when resolution requires senior management input and/or approval.

Writing Proficiency

• Demonstrates the ability to express information clearly and concisely in writing.
• Formulates and writes information to effectively communicate messages, ideas, and/or concepts for the intended recipient or audience.
• Uses appropriate words and tone, and correct grammar.

Computer/Automated System Proficiency

• Proficient in the use of university applications or automated systems to perform job duties.
• Complies with related policies, procedures, and work rules to maintain system security and data integrity.

Focus on Customer Service

• Focuses on customer's needs and expectations. (Customers can be students, external constituents, employees, or university guests.)
• Respectfully ascertains customer's needs and determines appropriate response.
• Promptly responds by providing requested information, takes appropriate action, or refers customer to appropriate individual or department.
• If further actions need to be taken, advises customers of realistic timeframes for a response to their request.
• Follows up with customers on outstanding requests in a timely manner.
• Tactfully explains to customers why their needs and/or expectations cannot be met if the university does not provide the requested information or services.

Student Success Indirect Support

• Contributes to student success by assisting students with anything that supports their student experience, whether directly or indirectly.
• Helps students navigate their way through the different offices, programs, and services at the university and/or connects students with the appropriate party(ies).
• Connects students with services or resources that can help them with career exploration, goal selection, and ongoing academic assistance.
• Helps students build peer support networks.
• Encourages student participation in out-of-class activities.
• Provides encouragement and guidance to foster student success.
• Treats students with respect
• Maintains the learning environment to ensure quality and/or sound pedagogy.