Director, Communications

Summary

Responsible for the operational management and administrative direction of a communications unit and/or function with broad responsibility. This position directs the long-range strategic planning, operations, and/or administrative activities of a department or major function. Directs strategy, development, and publication of communications initiatives. Structures communications campaigns to achieve long-term and short-term organizational goals. Analyzes the effectiveness of and establishes future direction for functional policies and programs. The primary duty is the management of other managers, professionals, and support staff*.  This position reports to a Vice President, Assistant/Associate Vice President, Associate Dean, or other appropriate administrator. This position may not report to another Director.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Directs strategy, development, and publication of communications initiatives. Structures communications campaigns to achieve long-term and short-term organizational goals.
• Defines communication strategies for organizational initiatives and oversees media relations in order to ensure consistency of messages and materials.
• Translates strategic and tactical business plans into department-specific plans. Has latitude to make operational decisions within broadly defined parameters and decision require a high level of judgement.  Deviations from university policies generally requires higher managerial approval.
• Establishes the direction, goals, implementation strategy and policies of the department or unit within an administrative area.
• Directs the efforts of and supervises departmental staff, sets performance standards and accountability.
• Formulates and administers the annual operating budget.
• Advises senior administrators in implementing programs, new initiatives, and special projects.
• Responsible for ensuring the all programs, activities, and series comply with university, state, and federal regulations.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining partnerships throughout the University. Oversees communications, promotions, and public relations for department in order to achieve departmental goals and objectives.
• Serves on various university, division and departmental committees and represents the department at various state and national associations.
• Responsible for maintaining an inclusive working environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.

Education and Experience

Master’s degree in an appropriate area and six years of relevant experience; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and eight years of relevant experience.

Licensure and Certification

N/A

Supervision

This position does have supervisory responsibility.

Competencies

• Accountability*
• Advocacy*
• Coaching/Mentoring*
• Collaboration*
• Communication*
• Emotional Intelligence*
• Execution*
• Facilitative Decision Making*
• Fair and Legal Management*
• Financial Management*
• Humility*
• Integrity*
• Judgment*
• Political Savvy*
• Problem Solving*
• Resolve*
• Role Model*
• Strategic Thinking*
• Talent Selection*
• Transparency*

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.