Director, Crisis Communications & Reputation Strategy

William & Mary; United States; On-site; USD 85,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

William & Mary seeks a Director of Crisis Communications to lead university-wide crisis communications strategies and guidance for senior leaders during emergencies and sensitive events.

The role partners with Public Safety, Student Affairs, IT, and University Counsel to develop messaging, preparedness initiatives, and response plans, ensuring timely and accurate communications that protect the university's reputation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, public affairs, emergency management, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Significant, progressively responsible experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, crisis communications, emergency management communications, or related field (typically 7–10 years).
• Demonstrated experience managing communications during high-profile, sensitive, or emergency situations.
• Experience serving as a media spokesperson for a complex organization.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of university-wide crisis communications strategies.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leaders during emergencies and sensitive events.
• Coordinate with Public Safety, President's Office, Student Affairs, University Counsel, IT, and others to craft messages.
• Manage time-sensitive, high-visibility communications that impact reputation and trust.

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications or related field

7 to 10 years of experience in communications or crisis management

Experience as a media spokesperson

Tools

Crisis communications plan development

Job description

William & Mary seeks a Director of Crisis Communications to lead university-wide crisis communications strategies and guidance for senior leaders during emergencies and sensitive events.

The role partners with Public Safety, Student Affairs, IT, and University Counsel to develop messaging, preparedness initiatives, and response plans, ensuring timely and accurate communications that protect the university's reputation.