Communications Manager
Maine College of Art & Design

Position Overview

Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) seeks a collaboratively-minded individual to serve as the Communications Manager, joining our group of committed faculty and staff who are passionate about art, education, and community. Reporting to the Executive Vice President, the Communications Manager is responsible for collaborating on developing and implementing a comprehensive external and internal communications program with initiatives that advance the brand and strategic plan of the College. This position will create content that promotes the College to internal and external stakeholders, utilizing key message points and compelling storytelling. Maine College of Art & Design recognizes that diversity is integral to the academic experience and strives to foster an inclusive culture defined by respect, equity, and social responsibility. All employees are expected to actively support these values.

Position Details

• Act as a strategic thought partner and influencer to senior leadership and related departments for proactive external communications management. Assist with developing internal strategies or events that deliver key stakeholder messages. Works with all areas of the College to oversee the strategic communication planning process and implementation;
  Direct the activities of the Communications department; prepare annual plan and budget recommendations; supervise expenditures; hire staff positions; provide reports on the status of projects and activities;
  Create engaging content that reflects events happening at the College and highlights key differentiators to share on a variety of platforms;
  Oversee "& Magazine" schedule and New and Noteworthy newsletter;
  Manage and oversee all college social media outreach, including targeted email campaigns, news blogs, and other digital or online communications collateral;
  Research and write compelling stories about students, faculty, staff, and alumni; build relationships with various internal departments and College constituents to generate story ideas;
  Generate press releases and respond to media inquiries as needed. Provide media training, talking points, and interview briefing materials as needed. Serve as a key member of the response team to handle crisis communications;
  Build relationships and maintain regular contact with reporters and editors at local, regional, and national media outlets, blogs, and trade publications;
  Create case statements and general materials to be used for grants and applications;
  Work closely with various Marketing and Communication staff, including Admissions, Artists at Work, Advancement, Continuing Studies, and Marketing to ensure consistent messaging and brand integrity;
  Demonstrate a commitment to valuing diversity and contribute to providing an inclusive working environment.

Qualifications, Experience, Skills & Abilities Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent required;
  Master's degree or equivalent preferred.

Experience:

• 5-7 years of experience in marketing, communications, public relations, or advertising (preferably in higher education or the art world) required;
  Excellent writing and publishing portfolio;
  Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint/Google Slides;
  Proven project management experience required;
  Strong knowledge of website design and development preferred;
  Proven experience in social media strategies, including Facebook and Twitter preferred;
  Experience with MailChimp is preferred as well.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to work nights and weekends depending on the college event schedule;
  Ability to multitask a heavy volume of short- and long-term projects in a deadline-driven environment required;
  Superior verbal and written communication skills required;
  Highly organized and detail-oriented with excellent follow-through required;
  Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

Compensation & Benefits

This is a year-round, full-time, exempt position. Compensation ranges from $65,000 to $68,000, based on experience. A comprehensive benefits package includes health, dental, vacation, sick time, and retirement benefits.

To Apply

Applications will be reviewed beginning immediately and will be accepted until a hire is made. Application materials must be sent digitally in a single PDF, not to exceed a 25MB file size. Please place "Communications Manager [Last Name, First Name]" in the subject line.

The PDF must include:

1. An application/cover letter that describes how the candidate's experience, accomplishments, and qualifications intersect with the listed position description;
   A resumé/curriculum vitae;
   A diversity statement;
   A list of four references with contact information, one of which should be a prior supervisor and/or professor.

Maine College of Art & Design recognizes that diversity is integral to the academic experience and strives to foster an inclusive culture defined by respect, equity and social responsibility. The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience working with diverse populations and supporting an inclusive and equitable community. Maine College of Art & Design does not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, HIV status, race, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, or military/veteran status in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment policies, financial aid, or other College administered programs. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.