Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist

Posting Details Posting Number:
S14689P

Working Title:
Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist

Department:
MarComm-VP Office

About the University of Georgia:
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the states flagship university ( . The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The Universitys main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The Universitys enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department:

College/Unit/Department website:

Posting Type:
External

Retirement Plan:
TRS or ORP

Employment Type:
Employee

Benefits Eligibility:
Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time:
Full Time

Work Schedule:

Additional Schedule Information:
Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Occasional nights and weekends required.

Advertised Salary:
$48,000-$55,000

Posting Date:
02/09/2026

Open until filled:
Yes

Closing Date:

Proposed Starting Date:
05/01/2026

Special Instructions to Applicants:
Required Materials for Application:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Three published writing samples
• Three professional references

Location of Vacancy:
Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement:
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( ... ).

USG Core Values Statement:
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at .

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at .

Position Information Classification Title:
Communications Pro II

FLSA:
Exempt

FTE:
1.00

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelors degree in a related field or equivalent
Minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience
Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading ability for technical and non-technical audiences
Proficiency in Microsoft 365
Familiarity with AP Style
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines
Experience in designing graphics, presentations and event collateral
Strong understanding of digital marketing campaigns and analytics
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Canva
Familiarity with project management systems, such as Asana
Familiarity with higher education

Position Summary:
The Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist supports the Office of Strategic Institutional Initiatives in the Division of Marketing & Communications (MarComm) in developing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy to advance the universitys strategic goals, with a primary focus on external communications, publications, and digital media for UGAs Innovation District. This role also collaborates with key campus units on communications that enhance high-visibility, enterprise-level initiatives defined by UGAs senior leadership. Key responsibilities include creating and distributing compelling content, monitoring and managing digital content channels, designing and implementing targeted email marketing campaigns, and using data analytics to inform ongoing communications efforts.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of marketing, communications, and public relations principles
• Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders and deadlines
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize competing demands.
• Familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems, and project management tools.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including copywriting, editing, general interest writing, and technical/science writing
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with a high degree of judgment, discretion, and professionalism

Physical Demands:
Standard office environment

Is driving a responsibility of this position?:
No

Is this a Position of Trust?:
No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
No

Does this position require a P-Card? :
No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :
No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:
No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):
No

Credit and P-Card policy:
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website .

Background Investigation Policy:
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website .

Duties/Responsibilities Duties/Responsibilities:
Innovation District communications

• Act as the primary liaison between the Innovation District and MarComm, ensuring collaboration and alignment of shared priorities.
• Develop and maintain a strategic and effective communication plan for UGAs Innovation District in line with the universitys strategic priorities.
• Develop story ideas, conduct interviews with faculty, staff and stakeholders, and write high-quality content to elevate the Innovation District through compelling storytelling.
• Oversee the Innovation Districts digital communications, managing official associated social media channels, calendar and websites.
• Coordinate social media posts with UGAs central accounts for greater visibility and impact.
• Maintain and update content to ensure accuracy, relevance, and consistency with the institutions brand and messaging.
• Develop, design and review presentations, newsletters, publications, infographics and talking points to inform and market to Innovation District stakeholders.
• Regularly analyze communication metrics to inform and refine overall strategy.
• Work with an event manager to plan and implement annual events for the Innovation District.

Percentage of time:
50

Duties/Responsibilities:
Strategic Institutional Initiatives communications

• Develop story ideas, conduct interviews with faculty, staff and stakeholders, and write high-quality content to support the institutions strategic initiatives through press releases, marketing copy and research stories.
• Collaborate with MarComm editorial, creative and digital media staff to strengthen communications and storytelling about key initiatives.
• Assist with ongoing maintenance of stakeholder mailing lists.

Percentage of time:
25

Duties/Responsibilities:
Collaboration with key campus units

• Collaborate with communicators from key campus units to develop content that reinforces the universitys support of key unit announcements, such as building dedications and recognition events.
• Cultivate relationships with unit communicators to foster a collaborative work environment that supports the universitys goals and ensures an ongoing dialogue.
• Be knowledgeable about MarComms resources and tools that can help units with marketing/communications needs.

Percentage of time:
15

Duties/Responsibilities:
Contribution to unit synergy

• Utilize MarComms workflow processes and tools and leverage the project management system to ensure projects are completed efficiently and adhere to deadlines.
• Attend all Strategic Institutional Initiatives and MarComm meetings as relevant to advance the divisions priorities. Communicate recurrently with supervisor and team members to foster transparency.
• Interact with other disciplines within MarComm to cultivate an engaging, productive, and healthy work environment.

Percentage of time:
5

Duties/Responsibilities:
Other duties as assigned

Percentage of time:
5