The Director of Strategic Communications in the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) supports the vast research infrastructure at the University of Iowa, which includes administrative and compliance units, research centers, a public health laboratory, core facilities, technology transfer, and a center for undergraduate research.

By working with OVPR and its reporting units to develop and deploy effective communications through various channels, including to an internal audience of researchers a nd scholars, this role supports the organization’s goals to support the research enterprise, ensure safety and compliance, and promote UI research strengths.

This role is responsible for delivering targeted communications that build relationships with University of Iowa stakeholders, including students, faculty, and staff; news media; alumni; policymakers; professional and industry partners; Iowa residents; and other external and internal audiences.

Position Status: Professional and Scientific Regular (100%)

Work Modality: On Campus: This position is performed fully on campus.

Work Location: Iowa City, Iowa

To learn more about the department visit https://research.uiowa.edu

Pay Grade: 7A

About the University of Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.

Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow profess ionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.

Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Qualifications:

Education or Equivalency Required

• Master's degree in strategic communication/public relations, marketing, or journalism or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Qualifications

• Typically, five or more years of experience in the design and execution of marketing, communications, and/or public relations strategy and or activities.
• Interested in and committed to developing compelling narratives about the research enterprise at the University of Iowa.
• Proven ability to develop an effective communication plan to achieve organizational goals.
• Superb strategic planning, writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks while achieving a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of issues facing higher education, including relations with state and federal governments, and other important external and internal constituencies and audiences.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated experience using various communication channels and a vision for using them strategically to reach key stakeholder audiences.
• Demonstrated success in effectively managing people and teams.
• Professional experience working effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

Desirable Qualifications

• Understanding the regulatory and funding climate for research in the public sector.
• Experience in crisis communication.
• Experience pitching stories and developing strong relations with traditional and new media formats.
• Experience supporting senior leaders as spokespeople, writing talking points, remarks, and providing media training.

 

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.