Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations

• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $125,000 to $145,000

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Scientific Communications and Media Relations. Reporting to the Executive Director of Communications, this leader will develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy to amplify the scientific and research achievements of Columbia Engineering. The ideal candidate will be a skilled communicator with deep expertise in science communication, media relations, and digital engagement, coupled with a strong understanding of strategic communications within a high-profile academic and research setting.

In this capacity, the Director will work closely with senior leadership, faculty, and key stakeholders to strategically communicate the School's pioneering research, groundbreaking discoveries, and academic milestones. The role requires engaging a wide range of audiences, from the general public and policymakers to industry leaders and academic institutions. By harnessing both established and emerging media channels, the Director will enhance the School's visibility and strengthen its global influence.

This role offers an exciting challenge for a seasoned leader skilled in science communication, media relations, and digital outreach. The chosen candidate will lead initiatives to promote the School's scientific contributions, designing creative strategies to expand the institution's presence and ensure its research achievements resonate on a global scale.

Responsibilities

Media Relations Strategy and Public Engagement (30%):

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, research-based communication strategy in alignment with the institution's mission and long-term goals.
• Collaborate with the Dean, faculty, and department heads to ensure media strategies support and enhance institutional priorities.
• Cultivate relationships with print, broadcast, and digital media to effectively position Columbia Engineering's research and thought leadership.
• Identify and pitch high-impact stories that highlight the global significance of research initiatives, focusing on relevance and newsworthiness.

Content Strategy and Narrative Leadership (30%):

• Lead the development of original press releases, news stories, and feature articles, translating complex scientific discoveries into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
• Strategically create content for multi-platform use, including podcasts, multimedia productions, and social media, to amplify institutional reach.
• Partner with the Editorial Director to establish and oversee a comprehensive content calendar, aligning academic publications, research announcements, and key institutional milestones for consistent, high-impact communication.

Executive-Level Internal Communications and Cross-Departmental Leadership (30%):

• Act as the primary strategic liaison between the communications division and other key university entities, driving alignment in messaging and fostering collaboration across major cross-institutional initiatives.
• Oversee communications strategies for significant institutional events, initiatives, and announcements, ensuring cohesive and impactful messaging across all platforms.
• Convene and lead departmental communications directors from various departments to enhance coordination, establish best practices, and provide strategic guidance on effectively interfacing with the central communications office.

Strategic Project Leadership and Coordination (5%):

• Partner with the Executive Director and lead collaboration with internal and external creative teams-including designers, photographers, and editors-to ensure that projects achieve strategic communication objectives and uphold university-wide branding standards.

Metrics and Insights (5%):

• Develop and establish comprehensive key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the impact and effectiveness of public relations and communication efforts across multiple channels.
• Lead the collection, analysis, and interpretation of both qualitative and quantitative data to identify trends, measure audience engagement, and inform decision-making.
• Utilize insights gained from data analysis to refine communication strategies, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and enhancing overall PR effectiveness.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement by establishing best practices for measuring success, reporting on outcomes to senior leadership, and recommending strategic adjustments to enhance public perception and audience reach.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor's Degree is required, along with at least 5 years of experience in marketing, strategic communications, or media relations.
• Service-oriented professional who demonstrates creativity, flexibility, and the ability to perform under time pressure.
• Strong strategic planning and implementation skills are essential, along with an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving.
• Effective communication skills are required, with the ability to engage a variety of stakeholders, including University administrators, faculty, alumni, students, and corporate/government professionals.
• Candidates must also excel in coordinating multiple projects and managing staff within a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred qualifications include an advanced degree in sciences, science journalism, or a related field, and 10-12 years of experience in science communications and media relations.
• Substantial experience in writing, editing, and public relations is necessary, with a proven track record in media relations and digital engagement, particularly in scientific or academic settings.
• Candidates should have exceptional skills in communicating complex scientific concepts, proficiency in digital content management systems and analytics, and a deep understanding of the current media landscape.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills are essential, especially when working with high-profile scientists and institutional leaders.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.