Director of Communications

The Office of the Vice President for Research is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Communication to join their growing team! This pivotal role reports directly to the Executive Director of Research Strategy and Communication and is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that effectively convey our research initiatives to diverse audiences. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a proven track record in strategic communications, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.

This position is based on UVA Grounds in Charlottesville, VA. If you are passionate about communicating research breakthroughs that change the world, and thrive in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

Duties Include:

• Direct a range of communication initiatives, including press releases and executive communications, tailored for various internal and external audiences such as faculty, staff, UVA leadership, Board of Visitors, peer organizations, media outlets, and governmental agencies.

• Develop and recommend data-driven process improvements and optimize communication channels, tools, and strategies. Lead the team through change management initiatives to ensure adaptability and resilience.

• Continuously monitor and analyze media coverage, public sentiment, and social media trends to identify emerging issues, assess risks, and refine communication strategies proactively.

• Oversee the editorial calendar, identify and leverage content from across grounds, produce high-quality articles on key areas of UVA Research, and manage the hiring of external vendors or freelancers for specialized written content as needed.

• Handle all press relations and partner with University Communications to proactively engage media to promote strategic UVA Research stories, enhancing the university's research reputation and visibility.

• Analyze data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of communication initiatives, ensuring alignment with departmental goals and continuous improvement.

• As directed, develop and manage OVPR internal and external events in partnership with the Director of Marketing.

• Work closely with the Director of Marketing to identify and leverage opportunities that align with the goals of the Vice President for Research (VPR) and the Research Communications division.

• Lead the communications team with enthusiasm and positivity, creating an environment where innovative ideas are encouraged and valued.

• Collaborate with University Communications to maximize the dissemination of press stories and enhance visibility within the broader university community.

• Additional responsibilities as needed.

This is a full-time exempt-level position with UVA benefits. Employee benefits package highlights include:

• 22 days of paid time off, increasing with service; 18 paid holidays each year; and parental and community service leave

• Health plan with options to meet healthcare and financial needs.

• Retirement through the Virginia Retirement System.

• Tuition and professional development benefits.

• Employee wellness program featuring activities to earn up to $500/year.

Selected candidates will be required to complete all required background checks prior to the first day of employment.

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree

• Experience: At least seven years of experience in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations or related fields; or master's degree with at least five years of experience.

Preferred Requirements:

• Experience developing and implementing an effective communications strategy.

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with ability to synthesize complex concepts and translate into simple and clear communications.

• Proven track record creating and delivering effective internal communications programs that translate strategic thinking into output.

• Experience generating earned media.

• Ability to meet competing deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

• A proven ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva and similar tools is a plus.

To Apply:

Please apply online, and search for R0067329. Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching 'Find Jobs.' Complete an application online with the following documents:

• CV/Resume

• Cover letter

• Writing sample

• Additional portfolio examples optional

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.

References will be completed via UVA's standardized process Skill Survey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process.

For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician's Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.