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Penn State University · 2 months ago

Assistant Director of Executive Communications and Coordination

Penn State University Park

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

$86K/yr - $130K/yr

8+ years exp

Penn State University is seeking a seasoned executive communications professional to lead strategic messaging and speechwriting support for the University’s provost. The Assistant Director will craft speeches and materials, conduct research, and provide communications support to advance leadership priorities at the University.

Higher Education

No H1B

Responsibilities

Fulfilling the speech writing/messaging needs of Penn State’s provost and other senior executives, including coordination with the Provost’s Chief of Staff

Writing and editing speech-related materials for a variety of settings and public appearances

Crafting a range of materials, including background information, bulleted remarks, talking points, and fully scripted speeches, all tailored to the specific needs of each occasion

Aligning speeches and public statements with the provost’s or executive’s voice, style, and vision

Making sure messaging is factual, accurate, and consistent with university priorities and values

Composing detailed briefing materials for various stakeholder meetings, speeches, forums, and other events, making sure the provost and other senior executives are well-informed and prepared for each engagement

Implementing processes to track and manage speaking engagements, deadlines, and strategic stakeholder interactions, ensuring timely execution and alignment with organizational priorities

Developing and executing a surround sound communications strategy that ensures leadership messages are echoed across media and social media platforms, as appropriate

Maintaining a proactive editorial calendar and anticipating opportunities for executive visibility and thought leadership

Monitoring emerging topics and trends across the University to identify areas where executive commentary or engagement may be valuable

Regularly and proactively engaging with colleagues in the Office of Strategic Communications to keep abreast of topics that might require comments from the provost or other senior executives

Working closely with key areas across the University—such as Development and Alumni Relations, Government and Community Relations, Student Affairs, colleges, and campuses—to understand key messages and objectives and incorporate relevant data, information, and talking points into communications that will resonate with audiences

Drafting scripts for video messages, writing op-eds, and developing quotes and statements, as needed

Monitoring the media landscape and tracking emerging trends in the news cycle

Qualification

Executive communicationsSpeechwritingWriting skillsResearch skillsAttention to detailListening skillsSelf-directionCollaborationOrganizational skillsAdaptability

Required

Outstanding writing and editing skills

Strong attention to detail

Excellent research skills, with attention to audience awareness

The ability to communicate complex and varied topics to diverse audiences

A strong sense of self-direction

A commitment to collaboration and teamwork

Discretion handling confidential information

The ability to manage multiple priorities, consistently produce compelling content, and meet firm deadlines

Experience supporting senior leadership and managing logistics for high-stakes engagements

A collaborative spirit and ability to work across teams and functions

Bachelor's Degree

8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Preferred

Bachelor's degree in communications, English, journalism, public relations, or a similar discipline

Prior experience with executive communications or speechwriting, experience working in higher education, and familiarity with the current state and challenges facing higher education

Prior team management/leadership experience is a plus