Communications Manager

I. PURPOSE

The Communications Manager is an effective writer and strategic communicator who thrives in a mission-based environment. As a member of the integrated Marketing and Communications division that leads communication planning and execution to serve both Luther Seminary and Augsburg University, this person will work with staff who may be employees of either Luther or Augsburg. The Communications Manager works collaboratively with the Public Relations Director and Communications Specialist to develop, create, and implement communications aligned with organizational mission and objectives, ensuring information is communicated strategically and effectively. The ideal candidate also has a keen understanding and appreciation of Lutheran theology, its relevance in the 21st century, and the manners in which the Lutheran church shapes and informs the two institutions.

II. KEY RESULT AREAS

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Collaborate with public relations director to create, implement, and refine communication strategy and editorial calendar for both institutions. 
2. Create and implement effective communications regarding institutional objectives to key constituencies, including employees, alumni, donors, and media 
3. Serve as primary staff for a range of internal and external communication initiatives: identify core messages and audiences, develop communication plans, draft content, manage the review process, and ensure timely distribution across appropriate channel 
4. Work closely with seminary leadership, including the president and Board of Directors, to draft and implement regular (monthly) presidential communications and board meeting summaries across a variety of channels; assist with executive communications at Augsburg, when needed 
5. Writing and edit impactful, engaging content for print and digital publications, including Luther and Augsburg magazines, newsletters, and news website 
6. Develop and implement social media strategy for the seminary 
7. Collaborate with communication colleagues to ensure regular and time-sensitive updates of key digital properties at each institution, including intranet, digital screens, daily announcements, websites, and event and calendar listing 
8. Advise teams and leaders on effective communication tactics to support internal and external communication priorities, supporting internal/external communications and issues management needs as they arise 
9. Coordinate with the communications specialist to ensure time-sensitive communications (daily announcements, weather announcements) are covered during vacations and holiday
10. Support employee engagement by acting as an internal brand ambassador 
11. Proactively solicit feedback from campus leadership and partners, monitor real-time feedback, analyze data, and make recommendations to continuously improve communications effectiveness 
12. Work with partners across the Marketing and Communication division to ensure that internal and external communication strategy, messaging, and timing are in alignment and consistently support the organizations’ strategic goals

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Represent the Marketing and Communication division to other departments, to university and seminary administration, and to outside constituents 
2. Must be willing to be on call in times of emergency, such as severe weather or operational emergencies 
3. All other duties as apparent or assigned by supervisor(s)

III. RELATIONSHIPS

A. Internal Relationships with: Office of the President, Seminary Relations, Human Resources, Student Affairs, Board of Directors, and Marketing Communications division which includes Augsburg University Director of PR, Communications Specialist, and Vice President of Marketing & Communications.

B. External relationships with: consultants, pastors and alumni, bishops and synod staff members.

IV. JOB SPECIFICATION

Commitment to Luther Seminary’s Mission, Vision, Values and Welcome.

Desired education and experience:

1. Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field. Advanced degree in theology preferred but not required 
2. 5+ years professional communications experience designing and implementing comprehensive, multi-channel communication programs. Professional experience in higher education, nonprofit, or mission-based organizations preferred but not required 
3. Experience developing, managing, and executing executive communications

Desired knowledge, skills, and abilities:

1. Team player, strategic, growth-oriented, and a communications subject matter expert 
2. Creativity and ability to persuade and build commitment to vision, mission, and goals of the organization 
3. Action-oriented and results-driven; able to gather information from multiple sources, including competitors, to propel the organization forward 
4. Advanced editorial copywriting and editing skills 
5. Able to multitask, managing projects from inception through delivery with little oversight 
6. Proven track record of identifying communication-improvement opportunities and acting to improve processes 
7. Knowledge of and familiarity with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or other mainline Christian organizations