Public Communications Specialist III

University Communication (UC) translates ECU's message into strategic and compelling communication and campaigns through the university web site, news releases, its official social media, East magazine, storytelling, production of promotional videos and video news stories along with infographics, creation and development of promotional brochures, and annual reports. The purpose is to provide strategic communication and marketing guidance and support to increase the knowledge, understanding, appreciation and support of the University and its work with broad and varied constituencies, from prospective students to identified thought leaders to prospective donors.

Through ECU News Services UC performs media relations, public affairs, internal communication and strategic communication work on behalf of the university and reports and disseminates information about events, activities, research, policies, individuals and alumni of the University, both through the media, videos, ecu.edu, the university website and through owned publications and other forums.

UC, through Creative Services, works with all university departments to conceptualize, design, develop, and produce written, audio-visual, digital and print projects to brand,communicate, and market their messages to appropriate audiences. Creative Services also provides strategic marketing advice for the university, including performing advertising buys for the university.

The Office of Research, Economic Development, and Engagement ( REDE) Public Communications Specialist is a highly motivated and talented individual that creates, implements, and measures the success of a comprehensive communications, marketing, and public relations program that enhances the image position, and connections of research, innovation, and engagement activities within ECU, the community, and the region. This position reports directly to the Director of Communications for Academic Affairs and Research and is responsible for: communications strategy, REDE's website, social media channels, and electronic newsletters; internal and external marketing materials; and research stories and fact sheets. The communications specialist is responsible for all media relations ensuring accurate and positive impression of the division and its services.

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COMMUNICATION: The Communications Specialist creates, implements, and measures the success of a comprehensive communications, marketing, and public relations program that will enhance the local, regional, and national image and position of ECU in the primary areas of responsibility: research, economic development, innovation, and engagement activities. This individual develops and implements REDE marketing, communications, public relations activities, and materials and is solely responsible for editorial direction, design, production, and distribution of REDE's publications. The position ensures articulation of REDE's desired image and position. This individual ensures consistent communication of image and position throughout REDE, ECU, the community, and the region. The position identifies and covers events, issues, and accomplishments in these areas; serves as a spokesperson for REDE; and is responsible for the positive impression of the activities overseen by the division and the services provided within the division. This individual oversees all internal and external communications; writes press releases and news tips for research that are distributed to the press, coordinates interview schedules, and preps/coaches staff/faculty for media interactions. The position establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with representatives of ECU and within the community. The position serves as a media relations resource and sounding board for the division. This individual coordinates media interest in research, economic development, and engagement activities; ensures regular contact with target media; and responds appropriately to media requests. The position coordinates the appearance of divisional print and electronic materials such as letterhead, use of logo, and marketing materials. This individual ensures that the division regularly conducts relevant market research and monitors trends. The position guarantees careful attention to detail and produces professional and flawless written communications.

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KNOWLEDGE - TECHNICAL: The Communications Specialist serves as a key resource to the University's Chief Innovation and Engagement Officer and Chief Research Officer and others within REDE on a wide variety of communication and marketing concepts. The position independently establishes the standards for communication and marketing in REDE to accomplish all objectives and goals. This individual employs creative and innovative use of equipment, techniques, and communication methods. The position possesses in-depth knowledge and applicability of current technology/software such as web content managers including WordPress, Adobe products, and social media networks including, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. This individual works independently to execute the development, distribution, and maintenance of REDE's website, social media channels, internal marketing materials, external research and economic development marketing materials, electronic newsletters, and research stories and fact sheets. This position will serve as the liason between REDE and Creative Services for the evaluation and development of visual content.

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KNOWLEDGE - PROFESSIONAL: The Communications Specialist possesses extensive knowledge of the methods and techniques of planning, writing and editing, and producing content. The position trains and mentors others in the techniques for preparing and disseminating information to the division, ECU, the community, and the region. This individual maintains professional and technical knowledge in the fields of marketing, communications, and public relations by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing and maintaining personal networks, and participating in professional organizations. The position uses this information to help REDE operate with initiative and innovation.

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CONSULTING/ADVISING: The Communications Specialist crafts effective communications and conveys desired communication with sensitivity and urgency. The position identifies challenges and emerging issues faced by the division. This individual works with administrators and staff within REDE to recognize internal and external communications opportunities and works diligently to create and implement effective solutions. The position executes appropriate strategies and techniques to effectively deliver messages.

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PROJECT MANAGEMENT: The Communications Specialist is responsible for communication and marketing efforts in the division. The position plans and directs development and communication of information to promote REDE to ECU, the community, and the region. This individual independently manages project timelines and resources. The position uses a strategic approach to manage complex projects. The position develops short and long term plans for communication/marketing strategies and activities. This individual leads implementation efforts in all communications areas. The position develops, implements, and monitors systems and procedures necessary to the operation of the communication and marketing function within the division.

10%
ORGANIZATIONAL SENSITIVITY: The Communications Specialist works directly with University Communications and the Chief Innovation and Engagement Officer and Chief Research Officer to develop and maintain the mission, objectives, and goals of REDE. The position ensures the overall health and vitality of the division through appropriate communication and marketing techniques. This individual makes sure that REDE's mission, objectives, and goals are pertinent and practiced consistently. The position directs, develops, and implements strategies that will promote these goals throughout the division, ECU, the community, and the region. This individual develops and coordinates a means to seek regular input from the division, ECU, the community, and the region regarding the quality of REDE's communication and marketing efforts. The position intervenes and re-directs communication and marketing efforts that are proven ineffective.

Contingent Upon Availability of Funds

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

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East Carolina University requires applicants to submit a candidate profile online in order to be considered for the position. Candidates must also submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references, including contact information, online.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full time basis

In order to be considered for this position, applicants must complete a candidate profile online via the PeopleAdmin system and submit any requested documents. Additionally, applicants that possess the preferred education and experience must also possess the minimum education/experience, if applicable.

East Carolina University is committed to workforce success and cultivating a culture of care for our employees. ECU prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status or disability.

Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act ( ADAAA) should contact the ADA Coordinator at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/ TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST.