Director of Student Communications

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Upload Resume or Curriculum Vitae for automatic population of information to the application. The contact information, work experience, and education listed on your Resume/CV will be parsed and input into your Montclair application. Review information and double-check all fields containing information that the system parsed – the software is intelligent, but you need to verify that the data is accurate. In the “My Experience” section, you will find a Resume/CV upload option where you can submit your cover letter and all other supporting documents. Note: If you have an expansive CV, we recommend that you apply manually and only include the positions you have held in the last ten (10) years. You will then be able to attach your Resume/CV, as well as all other supporting documentation in the "My Experience" section of your application. Job Description SUMMARY: Reporting to the Associate Vice President for SDCL Division Operations, the Director of Student Communications leads the strategic vision and managerial oversight of the Student Communications Office, delivering an integrated, cohesive and comprehensive student communications program consistent with the University brand that provides students with critical information and resources. This position disseminates emergency communications for the campus community and stakeholders in partnership with the University Police and University Communications, oversees strategic messaging to parent and family members, and the institution’s mascot and pupscot programs, and supervises a team of professional staff and student workers. The Director develops institutional and student policies and ensures compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Oversees the daily administration of the Student Communications Office serving as a primary resource for fostering school spirit and pride, building community on campus, student success, belonging and engagement. Develops, schedules, reviews and releases mass communications targeted at student audiences to provide timely information and resources, ensure compliance with University brand standards and intended messaging objectives are achieved, and to maximize reach and impact of messages across multiple electronic platforms. Composes and sends emergency text message and email communications through the University’s emergency messaging platform upon request by University Police/University Communications. Plans and implements the University mascot program and pupscot program. Oversees the recruiting, training and ongoing supervision and development of the student mascot and handler team, as well as the delivery of campus programs and mascot and pupscot appearances. Engages parent and family members through strategic communications efforts providing timely messages and resources to support student success. Develops and recommends University, divisional, and departmental policies and procedures that follow best practices and meet federal, state, and local regulations. Administers and interprets applicable federal and state laws associated with student communication functions. Establishes goals and milestones, executes plans, and evaluates and analyzes divisional administrative operations and performance. Implements strategies to improve performance and meet objectives. Organizes, plans, and directs work operations, oversees staff execution in accordance with performance standards, makes performance evaluations, approves personnel actions within the unit, including promotions, hiring, and disciplinary actions. Establishes and maintains effective communication and cooperative working relationships with University administrators, faculty and staff, government and private agencies and/or the public in order to accomplish the objectives of the division and the University. Represents the division and University at conferences and meetings. Evaluates the effectiveness of unit programs and services and plans for continuous improvement. Develops surveys, gathers and analyzes data, and recommends enhancements to program and user experience. Consolidates messaging and streamlines existing processes. Maintains integrity and confidentiality in college and program operations. Composes detailed correspondence. Establishes and maintains essential records and files. Perform other duties as assigned. Management retains the right to change or add job duties at any time. QUALIFICATIONS: REQUIRED: Master's degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Minimum of five years of professional work experience in higher education communications or related field. Proficient in website content administration, website design, social media messaging. Strong oral and written communication skills. PREFERRED: Professional experience with crisis and/or emergency alert communications. PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY: Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions. Department: Student Development and Campus Life Position Type: Administrative Contact Information: For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email talentmontclair.edu. EEO/AA Statement: Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity. Additional information can be found on the website at www.montclair.edu/human-resources/about-us/eo-aa-and-diversity/ Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 Policy: Montclair State is required by Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 not to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities. The requirement to not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities extends to admission and employment. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/job-seekers/ J-18808-Ljbffr