Job Information
University of Massachusetts Amherst Strategic Communications & Marketing Specialist in Amherst, Massachusetts
Strategic Communications & Marketing Specialist
Apply now (https://secure.dc4.pageuppeople.com/apply/822/gateway/default.aspx?c=apply&lJobID=523792&lJobSourceTypeID=801&sLanguage=en-us) Job no: 523792
Work type: Staff Full Time
Location: UMass Amherst
Department:Library -Admin Services
Categories: Library, Public Relations, Marketing, Communications
About UMass Amherst
UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.
Job Summary
The Strategic Communications and Marketing Specialist is responsible for the development and management of strategic communications and marketing activities for the University Libraries. The specialist produces communications content for multiple audiences (including, but not limited to, campus community, and members of the public), using a variety of print, digital, web, and social media channels in a clear, concise, and compelling way. Reporting directly to the Dean of University Libraries, the specialist also provides direct support for the Dean in way of library wide communications. In addition, the specialist will engage with the Library Leadership Team, Department Heads Management Group, and Libraries staff to assist with collate information related to progress towards strategic priorities for the generation of news stories and other communications.
Essential Functions
Responsible for developing executive-level communications and messaging across discrete audiences for the University Libraries. Works collaboratively with the Dean of University Libraries, the Library Leadership Team, Libraries staff, and campus partners to develop messaging and stories that highlight the Libraries’ role as essential partners in the areas of scholarship, DEI, and student success.
Assists Library Leadership Team, Department Head Management Group, and library staff on departmental communications as needed.
Ensures alignment of messaging with that of the overall university brand and strategy. Employs sound editorial judgment.
Oversees the design, editing, and production of the Libraries’ Bookmark Magazine and staff monthly news highlights.
Develops communications for the Libraries and ensures accurate and timely distribution of information to the campus community and external stakeholders.
Defines and implements the Libraries’ communication strategies and roadmaps that demonstrate an understanding of evolving organizational culture, communicate change effectively, and support organizational development and community-building.
Oversees the management of Libraries’ social media presence and the libraries marketing plan in support of organizational priorities. Collaborates with library staff to produce various media, including but not limited to video, creative copy, photographs, and digital image manipulation.
Reviews the work of contracted graphic designers and freelance writers to ensure that brand image & messaging is consistent with the goals of the Libraries and the university.
Consults with communication partners across campus to identify projects, share resources and ensure consistency of messaging and that key initiatives meet defined objectives and expectations.
Works with the Libraries Leadership Team, University Relations, and campus partners to establish, implement, and regularly measure and adapt strategies and approaches to inform and engage the campus community. Identify key themes and messages, outline measurable communication objectives, including specific strategies tailored to audiences.
Uses content management systems to deliver and measure communications. Develops and executes effective measurement tools to analyze and interpret effectiveness of editorial activities. Stays up to date on best practices in this area.
Represents the Libraries in campus-wide communications meetings, marketing projects, pilots, and related working groups; ensures other units across campus are engaged and supported in effective Libraries communications by building strong relationships and collaborating on key initiatives.
Cultivates positive relationships with Libraries vendors for promotional materials.
Maintains deep knowledge of current and emerging communication technologies, trends, and best practices. Participates in conferences for professional development; stays abreast of the latest and emerging news and information relevant to the campus community that may inform messaging and strategy.
Serves on campus, system, external and related committees, and leads Libraries communications projects as assigned.
Other Functions
Performs other duties as assigned or required to meet Department, Executive Area/Division, and University goals and objectives.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
Bachelor's Degree with 5 years of relevant experience.
One year of supervisory experience.
Strong writing and editing skills.
Experience working and navigating content management systems (e.g., Drupal) and customer relationship management platforms (e.g., Marketing Cloud).
Experience writing for and working with senior level leadership.
Strong skills in building relationships/coalitions and working in a diverse, collaborative environment.
Works independently and effectively and manages multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
A high level of integrity, trustworthiness, respect, and team collaboration.
Ability to work after hours and on weekends when appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
Advanced degree in writing (e.g., MFA in Creative Writing, Journalism, etc.).
Experience working in higher education.
Experience working in a unionized environment.
Work Schedule
Monday-Friday, daytime hours.
This position has the opportunity for a hybrid work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where an employee’s work is regularly performed at a location other than the campus workspace for a portion of the week. As this position falls within the Professional Staff Union, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the Professional Staff Union collective bargaining agreement.
Salary Information
Level 27
PSU Hiring Ranges (https://www.umass.edu/hr/documents/exempt-hiring-ranges)
Special Instructions to Applicants
Upload your resume and cover letter along with your completed application. Our team will check references at the final stage of the interview process. Please be prepared to provide contact information for at least three (3) professional references. This position will remain open until filled or the advertised closing date, whichever occurs first. Early submissions are recommended.
UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, caste, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, political belief or affiliation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related condition(s), veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, natural and protective hairstyle and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.
Advertised: Jun 12 2024 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Sep 15 2024 Eastern Daylight Time