Director of Communications

The Director of Communications at Crown College plays a crucial role in advancing the institution's mission and vision through the leadership and implementation of comprehensive communication strategies. This role encompasses internal and external communications oversight to ensure consistency, professionalism, and relevance to diverse stakeholders. Additionally, the Director serves as the admissions, college relations, and athletics communication specialist and the project manager for the campus bi-annual magazine. Close collaboration with senior leadership, faculty, staff, and students is integral to enhancing the institution's reputation and fostering a cohesive communication culture.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:

• Develop and implement a strategic communication plan that supports the institution’s objectives and enhances its visibility and reputation. 
• Under the supervision of the Chief of Staff and Communications, advise senior leadership on messaging, branding, and crisis communication. 
• In collaboration with marketing, ensure accuracy, relevancy, and written branding of website content. 
• Lead media relations efforts, cultivating relationships with key journalists and proactively seeking opportunities for positive media coverage. 
• Oversee and project manage the production of high-quality print and digital communications materials, including Bridged, annual reports, and Advancement newsletter content. 
• Assist with social media strategic content. 
• Coordinate communications for institutional events, including commencement, conferences, and donor relations activities. 
• Monitor and analyze communication efforts to measure effectiveness and make data-driven adjustments as needed. 
• Ensure all communications adhere to brand guidelines and reflect Crown’s commitments, values, promise, vision, and mission. 
• Stay current with industry trends, best practices, and emerging communications and higher education technologies. 
• Write, edit, and review communication pieces for Admissions, Advancement, and Athletics when necessary. 
• Write, edit, and review internal and external emails under the supervision of the Chief of Staff. 
• Assemble and distribute weekly Community News + Updates emails. 
• Represent Marketing + Communications with internal partners in meetings and on projects as needed.

Requirements:

• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic communications plans. 
• Strong understanding of digital communications platforms, social media strategy, and content management systems. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messages for diverse audiences. 
• Experience in media relations, including crisis communications and proactive media outreach. 
• Commitment to the mission and values of Crown with an understanding of and appreciation for Christian higher education. 
• Agreement with Crown’s covenant. 
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and mentor staff members. 
• Highly organized with strong project management skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work collaboratively and build effective relationships across departments and external stakeholders.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field. 
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (in addition to the above minimum qualifications):

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field 
• Advanced knowledge of and skill using Adobe Creative Suite and other Communication Software 
• College Admissions or sales experience