Full-Time Director of Communications
Job Description
Clark College is currently accepting applications for a full-time, exempt Director of Communications. Reporting to the Executive Vice President of Operations, the Director of Communications using an equity mindset, will lead, plan, organize, direct and review the communications activities of the college. The Director of Communications works collaboratively with the Director of Marketing to support the college’s marketing initiatives. The Director of Communications should be an exceptional writer, a strategic communicator and a collaborative leader.
The Director of Communications will oversee all official communication involving the college. They will be responsible for the development and implementation of communication strategies that centers diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Director will create and disseminate a broad and diverse range of internal and external communications that builds the college brand, provides timely and accurate information, and engages multiple communities. The successful candidate will be an effective communicator who will help the college achieve its goals of increasing student success, ensuring financial stability, maintaining an inclusive college environment and broadening strategic partnerships.
At Clark, we value equity, diversity and inclusion. We have not always gotten it right, but are committed to growing, learning, and supporting our employees. Our Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) supports individuals with their academic, personal, and professional development, as well as provides training and educational resources for all members of the college community around diversity, inclusion, power, privilege, inequity, social equity, and social justice. The college offers further professional development for our employees through opportunities such as Employee Resource Groups, Social Justice Leadership Institute, Cross Institution Faculty of Color Mentorship program, Administrators of Color Leadership Program, and Faculty and Staff of Color Conference.
Clark College values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator. Protected group members are strongly encouraged to apply. Clark College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status or use of a trained guide dog or service animal. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual conduct of various types). The college considers equal opportunity, affirmative action, and non-discrimination to be fundamental to the mission, vision and values of the college. All faculty and staff hired at Clark College are encouraged to embrace, continually support and enhance social equity on our campus and in our community. The college provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, Title II and Title IX, and Affirmative Action: Darcy Rourk, Interim Vice President of Human Resources, 360-992-2119, dr****@cl***.edu, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Baird 012, Vancouver, Washington 98663. Clark College is a smoke-free/drug free environment. This recruitment announcement does not reflect the entire job description and can be changed and or modified without notice.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate must be willing to bring their commitment, expertise and creativity to effectively communicate our community college mission to diverse audiences. The Director of Communications will work proactively with media outlets and establish productive working relationships with media and community partners, and manage a small team. Specifically, the position will:
- Develop and execute effective internal and external communications practices, policies, and processes.
- Develop, coordinate, and monitor crisis communications, risk management, and issue management.
- Assist the Executive Vice President of Operations and President in preparing and writing college- and community-wide correspondence and speeches.
- Assist the Executive Vice President of Operations and President in development of strategic community relations and advocacy.
- Develop public relations programs and strategies for both one-way and two-way communications with diverse constituents.
- Effectively lead and develop a team of communications professionals.
- Direct public relations and communication planning to increase brand awareness at local and regional levels and effectively reach and engage diverse populations.
- Build and maintain positive, proactive media relations with representatives from area news, as well as excellent working relationships with community leaders and local organizations.
- Serve as the College’s initial point of contact for media inquiries and central resource for general inquiries from the public.
- Communicate and condense complex issues and topics into easily understood and persuasive messages for a wide variety of audiences.
- Enhance community visibility, foster support and assist with coordination and promotion of special events and activities sponsored by the College.
- Function successfully as a communications strategist and spokesperson.
- Maintain sensitive and confidential communications.
- Effectively research, plan, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive communications program including public relations strategies and activities.
- Work independently in a variety of situations requiring contacts with regional public leaders, regional media representatives and business/community members.
- Work effectively with Board of Trustees, Executive Cabinet, Administrators, Faculty, Staff, Students, and external audiences.
- Represent the College to local and state agencies and community groups as appropriate.
- Collaborate with various departments across the college to gather content for stories.
- Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, Marketing, or a related discipline.
- Five (5) years of accomplished strategic communications experience of increasing scope, preferably with experience in higher education or in a complex organization.
- Leadership experience in multi-faceted marketing or increasingly responsible experience in leading institutional marketing, branding, and communications programs.
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Ability to work well with people of all ages from academically, culturally, and socioeconomically diverse backgrounds.
Salary Statement:
Salary will be discussed during the interview process and is commensurate with qualifications.
Benefits include vacation/ sick leave; medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance; retirement; and tuition waiver.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Required Online Application Materials:
- Clark College Online Application
- Current résumé
- Cover letter describing background and experience related to qualifications and responsibilities of the position
- Unofficial copy of all transcripts/certifications uploaded with online application or delivered to the Human Resources office in person or by fax (360-992-2873).
- Responses to the following supplemental questions included in the online application
Please apply online at www.clark.edu/jobs.
To contact Clark College Human Resources, please call (360) 992-2105.
Application Deadline: Required application materials must be completed and submitted online by 3 p.m., June 4, 2021.
Condition of employment:
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position. Completion of academic degrees will also be verified through receipt of official transcripts.
DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS
Upon request, accommodations are available to persons with disabilities for the application process. Contact Human Resources at (360)992-2105 or by video phone at (360)991-0901.
SECURITY
The security of all the members of the campus community is of vital concern to Clark College. Information regarding crime prevention advice, the authority of the Security/Safety Department, policies concerning reporting of any crimes which may occur on the campus, and crime statistics for the most recent 4-year period may be requested from the Clark College Security/Safety Department, (360) 992-2133. The most recent Annual Security Report can be viewed here: http://www.clark.edu/campus-life/student-support/security/report.php
ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION
If you are hired, you will need proof of identity, and documentation of U.S. citizenship or legal authorization to work.
CORRECTIONS OR EXTENDED NOTICES
Corrected or extended notices will be posted online and in the Human Resources Office.
Clark College Human Resources
May 21, 2021
21-00028
How to Apply
Please apply online at www.clark.edu/jobs.590 total views, 0 today