Communications Director Jobs (No ghost jobs, direct from employers)

Position Information

Classification Title Marketing Comms Supervisor FLSA Exempt FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent and 8 years of professional experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Five (5) or more years of related professional experience.
• Experience working in a complex organizational environment.
• Supervisory or team leadership experience.

Position Summary

The Communications Director serves on the Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant leadership team, providing strategic direction for the unit's communications program and contributing to organizational planning and decision-making. Reporting directly to the Director, this position oversees all aspects of communications operations, including the development and implementation of internal and external communication strategies, policies, processes and priorities that enhance the visibility and impact of the unit's research, education and extension programs. The position supervises two full-time communications professionals and regularly mentors undergraduate and graduate students while collaborating with leadership, faculty, staff, partners and stakeholders to develop products, resources and communications materials that support coastal communities. Responsibilities include managing the creation of print, digital and multimedia content; overseeing website, social media, publication and media relations efforts; providing communications training and support for staff, students and partners; and promoting events and fundraising initiatives that advance the mission of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Ability to develop strategies and resources to strengthen and direct the operations of a communication program.
• Strong project management skills having the ability to work independently yet collaboratively within the department as well as external stakeholders and partners.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated strength in copywriting, editing, and strategic message development. Proven ability to communicate technical information to a lay audience.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage priorities, balance competing demands, and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments.
• Experience with digital communications platforms, content management systems, social media, multimedia production, photography and graphic design.
• Experience supervising and managing employees.
• Familiarity with environmental, coastal or marine science issues.

Physical Demands

Some events may be held outside in coastal harsh weather; extensive sitting at computer work required

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? Yes Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) No Credit and P-Card policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities

Direct the operations of the communications department, ensuring alignment with the strategic goals of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant; Serve as a member of the unit's leadership team and support the director in overall management and direction; Establish and maintain relationships with external partners to enhance communication strategies and outreach efforts, serving as a liaison between upper management, staff and stakeholders; Supervise communications staff and interns specializing in graphic design, digital content development, marketing, illustration and videography.

Percentage of time 30 Duties/Responsibilities

Develop and implement internal and external communication strategies, guidance, and processes. Provide high-level direction to faculty and staff producing print and digital materials for research, education, and extension projects. Oversee messaging strategy, brand positioning, and quality control across all unit publications and digital assets.

Percentage of time 25 Duties/Responsibilities

Oversee digital communications strategy, managing content creation, quality, and maintenance for the unit's website, social media platforms, and newsletters. Lead media relations efforts, engaging with reporters, pitching stories, and elevating organizational visibility. Direct multimedia production and write feature stories and press releases to support high-impact outreach.

Percentage of time 20 Duties/Responsibilities

Assist with internal and external reporting requirements, including NOAA-mandated documentation, monthly highlights, and annual impacts reporting. Ensures accuracy, compliance, and transparent communication of organizational accomplishments to federal, university and public stakeholders.

Percentage of time 5 Duties/Responsibilities

Promotes public programs, workshops, conferences, and training events hosted by the unit. Develops full promotional strategies, audience-specific messaging, and engagement methods to drive participation and enhance the visibility and impact of educational programming.

Percentage of time 10 Duties/Responsibilities

Participate in the National Sea Grant Communications Network and the PSO Communicators Network, supporting national office and state-wide initiatives. Represent the unit in external affairs initiatives, fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders and organizations.

Percentage of time 5 Duties/Responsibilities

Provide communications leadership and support for fundraising initiatives, including donor campaigns, promotional materials, reporting on donor impact, and administration of materials for development. Strengthen stakeholder engagement and donor communication strategies.

Percentage of time 5

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

Contact Details

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name Mark Risse Recruitment Contact Email mrisse@uga.edu Recruitment Contact Phone 706-202-9576

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have a valid Driver's license?
• YES
• NO

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents

Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact University HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status.