Associate Director for Visual Communications Job at University of Minnesota - 15

University of Minnesota - 15th Ave Associate Director for Visual Communications Minneapolis, Minnesota Apply Now

Apply for Job Job ID: 366201 Location: Twin Cities Job Family: Marketing & Communications Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Regular Job Code: 9761GD Employee Class: Acad Prof and Admin

About the Job

The Associate Director for Visual Communications serves as the design leader and creative strategist to elevate the University's research impact as a vital component of Research and Innovation Office (RIO)'s external affairs strategy. As a strategic leader, the Associate Director will develop and manage the visual identity for RIO, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and brand standards.

This position is responsible for designing presentations, annual reports, electronic newsletters, magazines, infographics, and photography that communicate complex research topics to diverse internal and external audiences. Working closely with RIO leadership, administrative units, and external partners, the Associate Director will shape creative solutions that enhance UMN's research reputation and stakeholder engagement.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

1. Graphic Design: Lead visual strategy and design to elevate the visibility and impact of UMN's research enterprise, creating visual communications for a range of platforms including but not limited to presentations, monthly and quarterly electronic newsletters, annual reports, research magazines, infographics, and photography.
2. Develop and manage RIO's cohesive visual identity that aligns with UMN's brand standards and accessibility guidelines.
3. Design technical content that supports data-driven communications and decision-making, leveraging analytics to inform visual narratives.
4. Work with the RIO Communications team to translate complex scientific topics into accessible, engaging visual and written communications.
5. Drive creative concept development, ensuring visual content effectively communicates research narratives and strategic messages.
6. Proactively identify design opportunities and challenges, providing creative direction and solutions to support RIO goals.

Creative Direction and Collaboration:

1. Collaborate with the RIO Communications team, leadership, and stakeholders to deliver visually impactful materials.
2. Serve as a trusted advisor to RIO leadership, providing visual design expertise to strengthen external engagement and storytelling.
3. Assist in planning and leading creative brainstorming sessions for RIO stakeholders.
4. Help manage and evolve brand standards for RIO and University of Minnesota Technology Commercialization.
5. Build and manage relationships with key stakeholders and leadership.

Team Development and Mentorship:

1. Mentor and guide team members on design best practices and effective visual communication strategies.
2. Train colleagues on basic graphic editing tools and workflows.

Professional Development:

1. Stay at the forefront of design trends, tools, and technologies.
2. Pursue professional development opportunities to enhance skills in data visualization and creative leadership.

Strategic Flexibility:

Takes on special projects and other responsibilities aligned with the role's objectives as assigned by leadership.

Flexible Work Location Profile:

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

1. BA/BS degree in communications, journalism, marketing, art or related field or non-communication related degree with additional two years of professional communications experience.
2. At least six years of professional communications experience.
3. Experience working in higher education or research institutions.
4. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Google Office Suite, and Microsoft PowerPoint.
5. Skills in data visualization, photography, and video editing.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience designing graphics for science communications or technical content.
2. Strong portfolio showcasing expertise in publication design, infographic creation, and branding.

About the Department:

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) helps facilitate collaborative research designed to solve complex problems. RIO serves as a central resource for conducting, managing, and sponsoring research at the University of Minnesota.

Pay and Benefits:

Pay Range: $86,100 - $101,295; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.