Strategic Director of Communications & External Relations

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences seeks a Director of Communications & External Relations to lead strategy and execution across alumni relations, media, and outreach. You will supervise a team and partner with college leadership to raise visibility and engagement with diverse audiences.

You will direct marketing, public relations, and events, manage content and media requests, and oversee budgeting and reporting to the Dean. This role shapes the college’s external voice and impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or related field.
• 10 years experience in external relations and communications in academia/related sectors.
• 2 years supervising full-time employees.

Responsibilities

• Develops strategy, in collaboration with the college's leadership, in establishing and maintaining relationships with external key partners and promoting the success of the college.
• Directs and manages marketing, communications, public relations, and general college external relations programs and college events.
• Serves as an initial point of contact for media requests and works closely with the University's Office of Communications and Marketing and the Office of Advancement.
• Organizes and leads the execution of the college wide initiatives and major events as assigned by the Dean.
• Leads, motivates, develops, trains, and supervises the communications unit within the college in branding and communications related to the college's programs.
• Oversees responsible staff for management of the college website to maintain accurate, up-to-date information and directs the generation of news release copy, publication materials, social media, and electronic media submissions and releases.
• Develops and manages departmental budget along with the Dean to include developing, reviewing, and approving financial reports, vouchers, and acquisitions.

Skills

External relations

Communications

Leadership

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Relations

Job description

Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences seeks a Director of Communications & External Relations to lead strategy and execution across alumni relations, media, and outreach. You will supervise a team and partner with college leadership to raise visibility and engagement with diverse audiences.

You will direct marketing, public relations, and events, manage content and media requests, and oversee budgeting and reporting to the Dean. This role shapes the college’s external voice and impact.