Responsibilities

• The Director of Communications & Engagement provides strategic leadership for the College's communications, marketing, branding, and engagement efforts.
• As a member of the College's executive leadership team, this position serves as a trusted advisor to the Dean and senior leadership, developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy that advances the College's mission, elevates its reputation, and supports its strategic priorities.
• The Director oversees all aspects of internal and external communications, brand management, digital and print publications, media relations, academic events and conferences, and stakeholder engagement.
• This role ensures that the College presents a cohesive and compelling narrative to faculty, staff, students, donors, research partners, alumni, the broader scientific community, and the public.
• In addition to leading a high-performing communications team, the Director partners closely with the Director of Departmental Operations to strengthen staff engagement, professional development, and organizational effectiveness while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications and engagement strategy that advances the College's mission, strategic priorities, and long-term reputation.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the Dean and executive leadership on executive messaging, crisis communications, reputation management, organizational change, and public engagement initiatives.
• Provide leadership and oversight for all communications and marketing functions, including branding, media relations, publications, digital communications, social media, and storytelling that elevates faculty, research, student, and alumni achievements.
• Establish and maintain a cohesive College brand and messaging framework across departments, centers, institutes, and key stakeholder audiences.
• Lead the planning and execution of signature events, academic conferences, and engagement initiatives that strengthen relationships with donors, alumni, students, faculty, and external partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible communications, marketing, or public relations experience.
• Demonstrated experience developing strategic communications plans and advising senior leadership.
• Experience leading professional staff, managing complex projects, and overseeing budgets.
• Exceptional written, verbal, organizational, and relationship-building skills.

Preferred

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Three or more years of management experience.
• Experience in higher education, research, or another complex organization.
• Familiarity with project management platforms such as monday.com.
• Experience using communications analytics and emerging technologies to enhance engagement and operational effectiveness.