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Gardner-Webb University

Social Media Manager

Gardner-Webb University, Shelby, North Carolina, United States, 28152


Job Purpose

The Social Media Manager manages top-level University social platforms and live mascot program for Gardner-Webb University. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in creating and implementing digital and social programs, be a self-starter and results-driven, have strong teamwork, communication, and marketing skills.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential duties and responsibilities include:Manage the social media marketing strategy for the top-level platforms, as well as the live mascot program.Execute, document, and schedule organic social content that play to the audiences of each platform and utilize and portray the best of GWU.Create and direct high-quality content in written and visual form, including photos, graphics, and videos.Review and schedule live mascot appearance request, as well as transporting and accompanying the Live Mascot at events on campus and in the community on an as needed basis.Build and nurture positive working relationships with university departments to stay in the know on signature events, exhibitions, special projects to promote/support content relevant to our audience.Work with other communicators across campus to ensure all university social media channels are following best practices and working to grow their audiencesCommunicate in a professional but uniquely social media "voice" for the University, advocating for Gardner-Webb and answering questions as they arise when appropriate.Implement social media SEO tactics that align with our keyword and SEO strategies.Source user-generated content from social media ambassadors (GWU alumni, professors, current students, and influencers) for cross-promotional opportunities.Serve as a member of the emergency communications team by identifying threats, sharing content developed by University Relations/Creative Services, monitoring sentiment, documenting posts, and reporting results.Maintain university social media guidelines, as well as provide recommendations, training, and support on best practices for social media and digital engagement for campus communicators on an as needed basis.Analyze and closely monitor social accounts, campaigns, and posts to determine efficacy, make real-time changes to improve reach and focus, and add to the long-term success of social media accounts.Create, maintain, and regularly share detailed analytics of social platforms and progress toward goalsTrack trends and conduct competitive analysis of other university content and social media channels.Strategize a sustainable balance of actionable, shareable, engaging, cutting-edge content per channel that builds and strengthens the University's audiences

Some evening and weekend work will be required.

Required QualificationsBachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university2-5 years related experience in social media managementAdvanced knowledge of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok.Desire to explore emerging technologies and trendsAbility to evaluate analytics and summarize effectiveness of contentExcellent short burst writing and editing skillsDemonstrated ability to produce creative and on brand mediaValid Driver's LicenseAbility to work both independently and as a team member

Preferred QualificationsPrevious work in a nonprofit or higher education environmentPrevious experience with live animalsGraphic design and related Adobe CC design experienceFamiliarity with social media scheduling softwarePhoto and Video creation and editing capabilities

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should complete the application and include a letter of interest, résumé, and names and contact information for at least three professional references with their submission.

Gardner-Webb University (gardner-webb.edu) is a coeducational, residential, private, historically Baptist, Christian institution, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville-Spartanburg. The University offers 80+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 3,000 students. GWU is a Carnegie-classified Doctoral/Professional University. In 2023, Gardner-Webb was home to students from 93 counties in North Carolina, 44 US states, and 43 foreign countries. GWU is a NCAA Division I institution with 22 athletic teams and 460 student-athletes.