Human Resources

Summary

The Marketing and Communications Manager is responsible for developing and implementing effective, on-brand content and communications for the academic College(s), including undergraduate and graduate programs, research initiatives, experiential learning opportunities, and other content aligned with overall objectives for recruitment and reputation. The manager builds strategic partnerships with many stakeholders, including associated departments and institutes, industry partners, and members of the Michigan Tech community.

Working under the direction of the Associate Director of Communications (UMC), this position articulates College stories and advances Michigan Tech’s vision and reputation by producing strategic and creative content for multiple audiences using a variety of media.

The manager is responsible for the development, writing, and editing of content aligned with the College(s) and University’s shared, strategic communications goals—including news stories, press releases, magazine stories, web content, social media content, recruitment materials, and internal communications—and other materials related to highlighting the accomplishments, research, initiatives, and events at Michigan Technological University. The person in this role leads content strategy and production for the College(s), guiding the communications coordinators in each department and other associated units, generating story ideas and execution for both print and digital platforms, with an emphasis on cohesive on-brand messaging, compelling storytelling, accuracy, and creativity.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties

Writing Duties and Responsibilities
● Create and promote the College’s/Colleges’ marketing and communications in alignment with the Michigan Tech brand, working under the leadership of the UMC Associate Director of Communications, in collaboration with the Dean and departments within the College(s).
    ○ Regularly write a variety of general interest news stories, feature stories, and press releases for College blogs and the Michigan Tech News website
    ○ Regularly write college/department newsletters and annual reports, and other digital and print materials as required.
    ○ Regularly create, write, and edit copy for a variety of audiences across print and digital mediums in support of the University’s recruitment and reputation management strategies.
    ○ Craft content for the College’s/Colleges’ social media platforms, including but not limited to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and XTwitter
    ○ Assists the Dean(s) and College(s) with internal and external communications related to programs and projects that align with strategic priorities, including updates and initiatives.

Managerial Duties and Responsibilities
● Work with UMC to formulate and execute a unified market approach plan, determine the necessity and strategy behind content and communications for main content channels, and set analytics-based priorities for all efforts related to external and internal stakeholder communications.
    ○ Source, propose, and produce content for earned, owned, shared, and paid media including UMC publications like Michigan Tech News and Unscripted; the College’s/Colleges’ social media platforms, webpages, and blogs; and marketing pieces and key communications within the College(s)
    ○ Conduct research and interviews for articles and other content to be published or otherwise disseminated
    ○ Utilize designated templates and communications channels to ensure content consistency and workflow that enables goals and deadlines to be set and met
    ○ Plan and create content for news releases, University webpages, and various print materials, in collaboration with the UMC communications, marketing, and digital services teams

● Assist as needed with coverage of major University events and crises
● Assist in implementing and meeting the communications/marketing goals and objectives of assigned projects
● Help maintain organizational databases including news media distribution lists and editorial calendars
● Coordinate dissemination of information with other personnel and organizations, including collaborative partners and other universities/providers to ensure accurate, uniform messaging across University channels
● Work with internal and external college, department, and unit stakeholders to customize content for use across a variety of platforms.

Required Education, Certifications, Licensures

● Bachelor’s degree in communication, marketing, English, journalism, or a related field, received from an appropriately accredited college or university

Required Experience

● At least two (2) years of experience in journalism, marketing, or copywriting/editorial

Desirable Education and/or Experience

● Three (3) or more years of experience in journalism, marketing, or copywriting/editorial
● Experience in developing, implementing, and measuring external and internal communication plans
● Experience working with Muck Rack or a similar media database

Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

● Ability to formulate communications plans and strategies
● Excellent writing skills demonstrated through a submitted writing sample
● Ability to adhere to brand and editorial style and guidelines
● Exceptional relationship building, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
● Proficiency in Google Workspace and MS Office suites
● Composed and professional in stressful situations, including emergencies
● Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries and work harmoniously with diverse groups of students, faculty, and staff
● Demonstrated commitment to contribute to a safe work environment
● Ability to source compelling imagery and video content for social media, news stories, web pages, and print materials
● Knowledge and understanding of unique digital platforms and their audiences, including content tailored to social media
● Experience writing content for social media platforms

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities

● Familiarity with Canva
● Understanding of building and sustaining a media relations network

Work Environment and/or Physical Demands

Required Training and Other Conditions of Employment

Every employee at Michigan Technological University will receive the following 3 required trainings; additional training may be required by the department.

Required University Training:
● Employee Safety Overview
● Anti-Harassment, Discrimination, Retaliation Training
● Annual Data Security Training

Background Check:

Offers of employment are contingent upon and not considered finalized until the required background check has been performed and the results received and assessed.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of your appointment, and maintain eligibility without sponsorship throughout your appointment.

1

FLSA Status

Exempt

Appointment Term

12 months

Shift

Pay Rate/Salary

Negotiable, no less than $58,000

Title of Position Supervisor

Associate Director of Communcations

Posting Type

Dependent on Funding

Special Instructions to Applicants (if applicable)

Applicants should upload a resume, cover letter and list of references.

Additional Information