Associate Dean of Communication

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill; Elkins Hills (NC); On-site; USD 100,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Campus discounts

Job summary

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks an Associate Dean of Communications to lead the School of Law's communications and marketing efforts. The role shapes strategic plans, manages branding, and aligns messaging with academic mission across diverse audiences.

The position reports to senior law school leadership and collaborates with University Communications & Marketing to elevate reputation in legal academia and the public sphere.

Qualifications

• Master's or Bachelor's and 0-2 years' experience; or equivalent education/experience.
• Experience translating organizational strengths into communications tactics.
• Strong written and oral communication skills across print, web and social media.

Responsibilities

• Lead internal and external communications strategy for the School of Law.
• Oversee branding/identity and marketing projects.
• Collaborate with University Communications & Marketing and leadership.

Skills

Communications strategy

Media relations

Brand management

Leadership & oversight

Education

Master's or Bachelor's degree

Tools

Graphic design software

Job description

Posting Information

• Department: School of Law-360001


• Career Area: Public Relations/Communications/Marketing


• Posting Open Date: 08/28/2026


• Application Deadline: 09/14/2026


• Open Until Filled: No


• Position Type: Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)


• Working Title: Associate Dean of Communication


• Appointment Type: EHRA Non-Faculty


• Position Number: 01002567


• Vacancy ID: NF0009958


• Full Time/Part Time: Full-Time Permanent


• FTE: 1


• Hours per week: 40


• Position Location: North Carolina, US


• Hiring Range: Commensurate with education, skills, and experience.


• Proposed Start Date: 10/05/2026

Position Information

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The University of North Carolina, School of Law aspires to be a great public law school. Toward this end, it pursues a fourfold mission: to prepare outstanding lawyers and leaders for the bar, the bench, all public and private law settings, and public service; to make nationally and internationally significant legal and policy contributions through an ambitious agenda of research and scholarship; to instill lifelong ethical values, dedication to the cause of justice and a lasting commitment to pro bono and public service; and, to serve the legal profession, the people and institutions of North Carolina, the nation and the world.

Position Summary

The Associate Dean for Communications serves as the lead communications and marketing professional for the School of Law and is responsible for management of the School of Law's internal and external communications strategy. S/he will lead the development and implementation of a strategic communications plan to actively promote the School of Law with key constituents. The Associate Dean has a hardline report to the Senior Associate Dean of the Law School and is a member of the School's senior management team. The role has a dotted line report to University Communications & Marketing (UCM) and serves as a member of the Communications and Marketing Leadership Council (CMLC) managed by UCM. S/he represents the School of Law with various internal and external constituents such as prospective and current students, faculty, staff, alumni, the larger academic community, media and the general public. S/he is responsible for establishing and implementing plans related to School of Law branding/identity and marketing projects. The CCO will lead strategic initiatives designed to elevate and enhance the reputation and visibility within legal academia and the legal profession.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Master's or Bachelor's and 0-2 years' experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

N/A

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Successful candidates will have experience translating an organization's key strengths, mission and strategic direction into specific communication tactics; extensive knowledge of current journalistic practices, principles and styles; considerable experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment; ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects with short time frames; ability to work independently, yet collaboratively; increasing levels of responsibility writing professionally for print, web and social media; experience supervising and directing employees; outstanding written and oral communication skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse groups. Prefer candidates with experience working in an academic setting and graphic design programs.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.

Quick Link

https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/324030

Posting Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title: Kelly Podger -Smith Associate Dean

Department Contact Telephone or Email: [e-mail]

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]. Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.