UC Santa Barbara · 3 months ago
Director of Executive Communications
Santa Barbara, CA
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
$99K/yr - $182K/yr
7+ years expUC Santa Barbara is a prestigious public institution known for its excellence across various fields of study. The Director of Executive Communications will oversee executive communications, working closely with the Chancellor to develop a communications strategy that aligns with the university's vision and mission, while preparing a wide range of impactful communications.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Independently oversees executive communications, working closely and regularly with the Chancellor on a communications strategy that expresses and supports the vision and mission of the university
Prepares a wide range of communications including speeches and presentations, reports to the Faculty Legislature, Foundation Board of Trustees and Alumni Board, international keynotes, media quotes and responses, campus memos, communications with UC Office of the President, public statements, interviews, award nominations, and general correspondence, with high visibility and consequence of error
Researches issues and special topics, consults with campus colleagues, writes reports, and works on complex communication projects requiring quick thinking and response, strong subject matter expertise, a high degree of political acumen and sensitivity to nuance, and an in-depth understanding of how to reach out effectively and respectfully to different audiences
Exercises diplomacy, tact, and discretion at all times; works with a high degree of autonomy while developing strategies and tracking multiple deadlines and priorities; is flexible, organized, thoughtful, thorough, and collaborative
70% Communications- Prepares a wide range of written and electronic communications for the Chancellor, including keynote addresses, PowerPoint presentations, Regental items, briefing materials, reports, talking points and speeches, letters and email replies, and award nominations and references. Independently researches and ensures accuracy of communications, often containing sensitive and confidential information. Monitors the office’s main email account to assist with prioritizing, tracking, and responding. Writes clearly and effectively, applying knowledge of journalistic standards and grammar and style guidelines. Exercises independent judgment and critical thinking, and ensures crucial deadlines are met. Works collaboratively with the Vice Chancellor overseeing Public Affairs and Communications and other senior administrative officers on various communications projects benefiting the campus as a whole. Coordinates with institutional communications team on social media and other projects. Maintains current knowledge of university programs, people, policies, and points of pride in order to help the Chancellor communicate effectively with diverse audiences, and serve as a resource for others. Works closely with the Chancellor to understand priorities and support achievement of strategic communications
20% Special Projects and Analysis- Provides administrative analysis and support for the Chancellor and Chancellor's Office staff. Performs special projects or assignments that are sensitive or complex in nature, requiring a high level of initiative and care in execution and implementation. Works independently in a fast-paced and collaborative environment to prioritize projects and meet deadlines. Attends campus events where the Chancellor is speaking and provides support during major campus events including Regents’ visits, Foundation Board of Trustees meetings, and Commencement. Coordinates with other office staff and makes use of shared resources (calendar, email, administrative records) in order to stay informed of the Chancellor's activities and priorities and anticipate potential needs and opportunities
10% Back up Coverage- Primary backup to the Associate Chancellor and secondary backup to the Executive Assistant; cross-trains extensively in order to cover these respective desks during vacation or sick days, and to provide additional assistance as needed. Provides support for the front office, including responding to correspondents, callers, and drop-in visitors in order to assist with questions and concerns of diverse scope. Supports the service orientation and teamwork environment of the Chancellor's Office and assists with problem-solving. An essential staff member in the event of campus emergencies; on call to provide communications and administrative support to assist the Chancellor in responding to urgent and unfolding situations
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training
7-9 years of experience with writing/editing in higher education environment or related area
Demonstrated ability to prepare speeches, presentations, and written communications for senior leadership across a variety of audiences
Strong judgment and political acumen, with the ability to navigate sensitive and complex issues
Proven skill in conveying complex information in a clear, concise, and compelling manner
Experience engaging with media and public communications, including preparing leaders for interviews or public statements
Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
Preferred
4-6 years of experience with writing/editing for a senior leader or executive
Benefits
Full Benefits
Excellent retirement and health are just one of the rewards.
Company
UC Santa Barbara
UC Santa Barbara is consistently recognized for excellence across broad fields of study.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Dominique Mihaljevic
Co-Founder & President of Association of Multi-Ethnic Persons
Tama Takahashi
Co-founder
Recent News
2025-05-08
Company data provided by crunchbase