Executive Writer & Thought Leadership Strategist

University of California - Davis; Davis (CA); Hybrid; USD 86,000 - 157,000; Full time

Job summary

UC Davis seeks a senior Writer/Editor to partner with the Chancellor's Office, researching, writing and editing high‑level communications and thought leadership for national, state and regional audiences. This role shapes complex ideas into accessible narratives and supports executive presentations, public statements and talking points.

Under the Executive Communications strategy, the writer translates academic policy and institutional data into persuasive materials, leads select speeches, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent education/experience in communications for a large, complex institution.
• Experience researching, writing, editing complex, high‑level communications across multiple formats (speeches, op-eds, thought leadership, executive presentations).
• Experience independently researching and analyzing complex issues and translating findings into clear communications for diverse audiences.
• Advanced research, analytical, critical-thinking and fact-verification skills to develop evidence-based arguments.
• Interpersonal and client relationship skills to develop collaborative partnerships with political acumen.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to write for C‑Suite/higher education leaders and place op-eds in top outlets.

Responsibilities

• Executive Editorial & Thought Leadership development (high-visibility communications).
• Speechwriting for the Chancellor and senior leaders.
• Research, analysis and editorial strategy to identify compelling arguments and narratives.

Skills

Executive writing

Strategic communications

Speechwriting

Research & analysis

Audience tailoring

Political acumen

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in communications

Tools

Generative AI

Job description

UC Davis seeks a senior Writer/Editor to partner with the Chancellor's Office, researching, writing and editing high‑level communications and thought leadership for national, state and regional audiences. This role shapes complex ideas into accessible narratives and supports executive presentations, public statements and talking points.

Under the Executive Communications strategy, the writer translates academic policy and institutional data into persuasive materials, leads select speeches, and