Now Hiring: MSG Seeks Communications Program Leader

Mar 10, 2015 | Events, News

To apply, see: Communications Program Leader, Job# 107467

Job Title: Communications Program Leader
Market Code/Title: Marketing Communications Specialist
Department: Michigan Sea Grant College Program
Hours/Week: 40 hrs per week, M-F 8:00am – 5:00pm
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Location: Ann Arbor Campus

How to Apply: A cover letter and resume are required; the cover letter must be PAGE 1 of your resume. The letter should: 1) specifically outline the reasons for your interest in the position; 2) outline your particular skills and experience directly related to this position; and 3) include your current or most recent salary. In addition, please provide examples of communication materials you have produced.

Starting salary may vary depending on qualifications and experience of the selected candidate

Job Summary

Job Summary: Michigan Sea Grant (MSG) is searching for an outgoing and self-motivated individual to serve as Communications Program Leader working out of the office in Ann Arbor, Mich. The Leader will direct activities of the communications area of MSG. MSG is one of 33 university-based programs committed to the protection and sustainable use of the nation’s marine and Great Lakes resources through research, education, and outreach. The Leader will develop and coordinate the program?s communications strategy, conduct project planning and management, allocate resources, supervise a two-member communications staff, and work cooperatively with communications colleagues at Michigan State University, other Great Lakes Sea Grant programs, and the National Sea Grant Office.

Responsibilities

  • Be responsible for setting the trajectory of communications goals and strategies, and identify outcomes associated with those goals, in coordination with the Management Team, to achieve the vision of MSG.
  • Prioritize communications projects according to program goals and work with communications team members to accomplish stated objectives; supervise communications staff, including hiring, conducting performance reviews, and arranging ongoing professional development.
  • Ensure that communications projects and processes for MSG align with criteria set at the national level.
  • Assist in researching and producing required reports on behalf of the program, including MSG’s annual report.
  • Explore financial grants and other opportunities to expand MSG’s communications resources and programming.
  • Coordinate MSG’s involvement in communications projects in cooperation with other University of Michigan departments, as well as other state, federal, and private agencies as needed.
  • Coordinate MSG product development, marketing, public relations, website development, and media relations in cooperation with all aspects of outreach and research programming.
  • Define and develop brochures, fact sheets, conference proceedings, press releases, tip sheets, and other informational publications.
  • Work with Fiscal Officer to set policy on distribution of publications, pricing, and marketing strategies.
  • Develop and maintain links with key media on Sea Grant research and outreach topics. Oversee media strategy, including news releases and online promotion. Respond to National Sea Grant’s media requests.
  • Represent MSG in meetings and public forums, including giving presentations.
  • Serve as the central liaison for MSG communications within the Great Lakes Sea Grant Network, National Sea Grant Network, and other Great Lakes organizations; respond appropriately to requests from MSG staff, other Sea Grant programs, and the public regarding communications.
  • Collaborate with the Management Team, researchers, extension educators, and extension specialists, on communications support.
  • Help to develop a strong network of state and federal legislative relations.

Required Qualifications

  • MS in communications, environmental studies, science education, or related field.
  • At least 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in a communications-related field.
  • Experience in program management, public relations, writing, and editing, and familiarity with environmental or biological sciences.
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare and publish materials for use by the general public.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, with ability to work as a team member within an established office structure.
  • Demonstrated ability to creatively apply contemporary marketing and communications technology and techniques.
  • Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills, including ease in communicating complex concepts in a clear, effective manner for a general audience.
  • A strong sense of accountability, including a commitment to organizing, prioritizing, and planning work activities according to established timelines and schedules, and the ability to anticipate issues in accomplishing work and communicating in advance to affected parties.
  • Recognized ability to meet multiple deadlines by maintaining a high level of organization.
    Ability to employ effective problem-solving techniques.

Preferred Experience and Qualifications:

  • A strong network within the relevant resource management, policy making, university, and Great Lakes business communities.
  • 5-7 years of responsible experience in a communications-related field.
  • Experience in video media and production.
  • Supervision experience.
  • Creative thinking and desire to contribute to a fun and inspired office environment.

Additional Information

Supervision: Supervision is received from MSG Director; judgment and discretion in the execution of responsibilities are exercised according to University of Michigan policies and procedures.

Additional Information: A collaborative effort of the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, MSG promotes knowledge of the Great Lakes through research, outreach, and education. MSG is part of the NOAA-National Sea Grant network of 33 university-based programs in coastal areas around the country. To learn more about MSG, please visit our website: www.michiganseagrant.org.

We offer our employees an extensive total compensation package, including competitive pay, a two-for-one retirement contribution, a variety of health insurance options, and a generous vacation plan. In addition, there are seven paid holidays and four paid season days annually