Director of Communications and Public Relations

Lawrence University

Liberal Arts College in Appleton, Wisconsin.

https://www.lawrence.edu/

Position Details

Director of Communications and Public Relations
Job
Full-time
Office/WFH
100% remote
5/12/2025
Northeast Wisconsin
Appleton, WI

The Director of Communications and Public Affairs will lead the university’s institutional content, public relations, and media relations strategy. This individual will work closely with others in the Communications and Marketing team and other campus partners to create content that supports the university’s goals and enhances its visibility. The Director will oversee the development of content across multiple platforms, including media outreach, social media, and university publications. The role includes managing a team consisting of the Assistant Director of Social Media and the Photographer/Videographer.

Content Strategy Leadership: Develop and guide the university’s content strategy so that messaging aligns with institutional goals across all channels, including earned, paid, and owned media.

Public & Media Relations: Build and maintain media relationships, develop public relations strategies, and manage media inquiries to promote the university’s achievements.

Thought Leadership: Develop and execute thought leadership strategies that highlight the university’s expertise and leadership in key areas, positioning faculty, staff, and administrators as subject-matter experts.

Magazine & Publication Oversight: Lead the editorial and production direction of the university’s print and digital magazine, ensuring content reflects university priorities and values.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with the Communications and Marketing team and other campus partners to create content to complement and support broader marketing and institutional goals, enhancing university branding and messaging.

Team Leadership: Manage and support the Assistant Director of Social Media and the Photographer/Videographer, providing guidance and so that content aligns with the university’s communications strategy.

Analytics & Reporting: Measure and report on the effectiveness of communications strategies and content, providing insights to senior leadership.

Brand Advocacy: Champion the university’s brand and reputation, leveraging content to showcase key achievements and reinforce its position in higher education.
Qualifications:

  • Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field. At least 7-10 years of experience in communications and public relations, with 3-5 years in a leadership role.
  • Strategic Communications Experience: Proven ability to develop and execute content strategies that support organizational goals.
  • Media Relations Expertise: Strong experience building media relationships and securing media coverage.
  • Leadership Skills: Experience managing a team, mentoring staff, and fostering collaboration.
  • Content Creation & Oversight: Extensive experience in content creation across multiple platforms and ensuring consistent messaging.
  • Crisis Communications: Experience handling communications during crisis situations.
  • Technical Skills: Familiarity with content management systems, social media platforms, and analytics tools.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to craft messages for a variety of audiences.
  • Collaborative Approach: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Creative & Strategic Thinking: Ability to balance creativity with data-driven decision-making to optimize content strategy.

Employment Requirements:

  • Availability for occasional evening and weekend work for events and media needs.
  • Occasional travel may be required for media relations or university events.

Competitive Benefits + Wages.


« Back