External Affairs Manager

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Kentucky's College of Pharmacy seeks a Director of Communications to lead strategic communications and support alumni engagement for the college. This position develops, implements and assesses a comprehensive communications strategy that advances the college’s mission, priorities and reputation in pharmacy education, clinical practice, research and outreach.

The director develops and manages content across web, social media, email, newsletters, publications, photography, video and

Qualifications

• The director leads content across web, social media, email, newsletters, publications, photography, and video.
• Advises the dean and leadership on internal, external and crisis communications.
• Manages projects from planning through completion in line with editorial, brand, accessibility and university guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic communications and alumni engagement for the College of Pharmacy.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy to advance the college's mission and reputation.
• Advise college leadership on communications strategies across internal, external and crisis scenarios.
• Oversee content creation and coordination across digital and print channels, events, and donor communications.

Skills

Writing

Editing

Communications

Content management systems

Photography

Video editing

Job description

Physical Requirements

Standing and/or sitting for long periods of time. Travel.

Shift

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm; nights and weekends as needed.

Job Summary

The College of Pharmacy is seeking a Director of Communications to lead strategic communications and support alumni engagement for the college. This position develops, implements and assesses a comprehensive communications strategy that advances the college’s mission, priorities and reputation in pharmacy education, clinical practice, research and outreach.

The director develops and manages content across web, social media, email, newsletters, publications, photography, video and other digital and print channels. The position advises the dean and college leadership on internal, external and crisis communications, manages projects from planning through completion and ensures work aligns with University of Kentucky editorial, brand, accessibility and federal guidelines.

The role also supports alumni communications strategy, donor-related communications and college events and serves as a liaison to university, healthcare and professional partners.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

• Writing
• Editing
• Communications
• Content management systems
• Photography
• Video editing

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

Yes

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to Apply 09/01/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.