Executive Director, Strategic Communications & Reputation

North Carolina State University; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Flexible Spending Account

Retirement Programs

Disability Plans

Life Insurance

Accident Plan

Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs

12 Holidays Each Year

Tuition and Academic Assistance

And so much more!

Childcare benefits

Wellness & Recreation Membership

Wellness Programs

Job summary

NC State University seeks an executive communications leader to steward the university's reputation through strategic media relations, crisis management, and impact storytelling. The role acts as a primary spokesperson, translating research into public value and guiding leadership messaging across diverse audiences.

The successful candidate will build trusted media relationships, advise senior stakeholders, and foster a culture of clear, credible communications in high-visibility environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in communications, public relations, or related field, with at least 5 years in leadership roles.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex information into clear narratives for varied audiences.
• Proven mastery in managing high-stakes issues and crisis communications.

Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain relationships with local, national, and international media to elevate NC State expertise and research.
• Lead crisis and issues management with confidence in high-pressure situations.
• Translate research into clear public narratives and partner with leadership to increase visibility in prestigious media.
• Shape leadership messaging and align executive communications with broader reputation strategy.
• Collaborate with senior leaders and foster a positive division-wide culture.

Skills

Strategic communications

Media relations

Crisis communications

Executive communications

Thought leadership

Education

Post-baccalaureate degree in Journalism/Communications/Public Relations

Bachelor's degree with equivalent broad-based experience

Tools

Media monitoring tools

Social listening platforms

Job description

NC State University seeks an executive communications leader to steward the university's reputation through strategic media relations, crisis management, and impact storytelling. The role acts as a primary spokesperson, translating research into public value and guiding leadership messaging across diverse audiences.

The successful candidate will build trusted media relationships, advise senior stakeholders, and foster a culture of clear, credible communications in high-visibility environments.