Communications Manager

Special Notice for COVID-19
The UMN has suspended hiring for most positions. However, we will continue hiring for positions critical to the Universitys mission and operations at this time. Applications are being accepted for this position and you are encouraged to apply. In-person interviews are suspended indefinitely and will be replaced by interviews in a virtual format. Thank you for your continued interest in working at the University of Minnesota.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
BA/BS degree in communications or related field
Demonstration of exceptional writing and editing skills
At least four years experience writing, editing or publishing experience
At least three years knowledge of and experience in media and public relations
Knowledge of graphic design and layout
Preferred Qualifications
Six years of writing, editing or publishing experience
Knowledge of and experience with Photoshop and social media platforms
Demonstrated print processing and production knowledge and experience
About the Job
The Communications Manager at the School of Dentistry will be responsible for the communications management, writing and editing for the School's primary publications, website and social media. The position will also serve as advisory to the Dean and other School constituents, making recommendations for improved communications as well as executing strategy. This position reports directly to the Chief of Staff.
Responsibilities
Managing Editor (40%) Lead the strategic planning, writing, design and timely production of school's Dentistry magazine and other communications.
Evaluate emerging opportunities for communicating School of Dentistry activities/achievements.
Manage editorial planning and content.
Set timelines and calendars for specific projects.
Develop and manage production schedules and timelines.
Make writing assignments. Advise, edit and work with authors on revisions.
Edit articles, reports, and publications for content, clarity of presentation, style, grammar and accuracy in word choice and usage.
Identify and address potential legal concerns such as libel, HIPAA violations, invasion of privacy or infringement of copyright.
Ensure that published materials conform to professional and University editorial writing standards, brand standards and are congruent with current publishing and literary trends.
Oversee design, page layout and print production including vendor oversight, purchasing and contract management.
Solicit and identify significant and timely news that aligns with the school's strategic communications plan and objectives.
Lead planning and development of significant new editorial projects.
Communications Management (20%) Execute strategic direction for the school's faculty and staff on communication initiatives and strategies.
Lead projects and function as a communications expert for the School of Dentistry.
Assist in strategic development, planning, management and prioritization of print and other communications projects for external audiences including students, alumni, prospective students, national peers and professional organizations, foundations, donors and others.
Monitor communications to ensure compliance with all branding guidelines and directives from the University of Minnesota and the school.
Provide publications guidance and oversight to sub-units within the school.
Monitor publications and social media budget.
Receive, evaluate, and process project requests and forward recommendations on project requests to the requestor as appropriate.
Contract with and provide direction to vendors including designers, photographers, videographers and writers hired to produce communication and marketing materials as needed.
Media and PR Strategy (20%)
Identify newsworthy stories throughout the school.
Coach faculty and others on communicating effectively with media.
Collaborate with University Relations to identify appropriate vehicles, initiate pitches and general news coverage.
Social Media Management and Content Generation (20%) Identify, create, assign, write and edit stories for school-sponsored social media.
Solicit and identify significant and timely news that aligns with the school's strategic communications plan and objectives.
Write features, announcements, news stories.
Research issues, programs and ideas to gain context and understanding for significant writing and editing work.
Interview individuals.
Curate photo library including hiring professional photographers as needed.
Script and oversee strategic video development.
Write and organize Web content in select areas as requested.