Communications Manager

The University of Olivet, a liberal arts college in south central Michigan with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and diversity, seeks a Communications Manager.
The manager will work directly with the Marketing and Communications department and across the institution to develop and implement key University communication activities.
The University of Olivet was founded in 1844 on the principle that the future of humanity rests in the hands, hearts and minds of those who will take responsibility for themselves and others in an increasingly diverse society.
Open since its founding over 178 years ago to all regardless of race, gender or ability to pay, Olivet is one of the most diverse private liberal arts institutions in the state and actively seeks diversity in its students and employees.
The student body is composed of a strong mixture of first-generation, urban, rural and students from all socioeconomic backgrounds, with over 50 percent qualifying annually for Federal Pell Grants.
As part of the academic vision of Education for Individual and Social Responsibility®, faculty, staff and students commit themselves to The University of Olivet Compact, a series of statements that define the tenets of what it means to live and learn as a responsible member of The University of Olivet community and the larger world.
University faculty and staff are committed to providing personalized, individualized attention for students who seek academic and personal success.
Consistent with this history, women and members of historically underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply for employment at The University.
Description and Responsibilities The Communications Manager is a content producer, storyteller and strategist for University Communication activities and will develop a variety of communications to advance the institution and support its strategic objectives.
This includes managing communication plans for the organization, performing media relations activities, and creating written content across a variety of print, digital and video media as well as other duties.
The Communications Manager demonstrates good news judgment and outstanding public relations and journalism skills; cultivates relationships that advance the University; and creates materials that reflect positively on the institution.
The Communications Manager also acts as an internal consultant in communications and advises University staff when necessary regarding public relations matters both on and off campus.
Requirements The successful candidate will have: A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications or business from an accredited four-year institution Strong writing and editing skills.
Experience writing in AP Style.
Exceptional organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively while managing multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Knowledge of best practices in higher education communication.
Strong relationship-building skills.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
A sense of humor and a creative spirit.
Preferred Qualifications Microsoft 365 experience.
Ability to use web-based technology such as Wordpress website platform, Hootsuite social media platform, Slate CRM and Constant Contact email marketing platform.
Experience using a project management platform such as Smartsheet, Wrike, MS Planner, etc.
Benefits Salary is competitive and is commensurate with education and experience.
Comprehensive health and benefits package.
Two weeks paid time off plus numerous paid holidays in conjunction with the University’s academic calendar.
Professional development opportunities.
APPLICATION PROCESS: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Click on the “Apply” button.
From there, follow the instructions for completing the profile and submitting the requested documents.
Required documents for complete application submission: formal cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references and three writing samples.
Additional Position Details: Percentage of time spent – 75%: With strategic support from the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, the Communications Manager will collaborate with Marketing and Communications staff as well as key University staff to align communications to advance institutional strategic goals and priorities.
Plan and implement a public relations program to elevate the brand, enhance its reputation and promote the University’s mission.
Serve as senior writer and editor.
Manage, review, oversee and edit copy for comprehensive communications, programs and plans including outward facing written, digital, electronic and visual communications.
Elevate the brand and its reputation by writing and distributing compelling news releases, feature stories, profiles, frequently asked questions (FAQs), briefs, newsletters, and digital and print publications.
Develop media relations strategy and develop and deliver pitches to appropriate media.
Work cross-functionally with the admissions, advancement, president’s and other offices and departments on communications needs and media events including developing talking points, speeches, working with external partners and stakeholders, etc.
In conjunction with academic and administrative departments, develop a plan for identifying and leveraging trend stories and unique faculty and student stories to local, regional and national media outlets.
Develop relationships with key influencers in higher education to share stories and news.
Develop in-depth knowledge of faculty expertise and scholarship areas.
Manage, update, and improve the College’s faculty expert database.
Serve as an editor and writer for Shipherd’s Record, the college magazine.
As directed by the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, work with outside public relations counsel to assist in building brand equity and enhance the image of the institution.
Mine, research, and develop content that supports and strengthens University-wide communications.
Maintain knowledge of current news, events, industry issues, and trends to incorporate relevant information into relevant communications.
Write scripts, develop questions and conduct interviews for video, podcasts and news articles.
Oversee and manage The University of Olivet writing style guide.
Percentage of Time Spent: 25% Add content such as articles, stories and informational content to the University website as needed.
Assist with social media monitoring, posting and responses as needed.
Monitor media and measure outreach through tracking tools Train staff across the institution on appropriate communication channels, tactics and brand voice.
Oversee institutional rankings, reviews and ratings and coordinates updating University assets and disseminating information to the University community as well as stakeholders.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities, disorders, and impairments to perform essential functions.
The employee must be able to perform duties dependably and effectively in a diverse, challenging, and occasionally stressful environment.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to: stay in a stationary position for long periods and operate a keyboard or type; use common business office machines such as a copier and telephone; handle materials weighing less than 20 lbs; traverse campus; communicate effectively with diverse constituencies; and, operate a computer.
The noise level in the work environment is usually mild to moderate.
Some weekend and night work and travel may be required.