Director of Communications

This role oversees campus-wide messaging, presidential and cabinet-level communications, media relations, crisis communications, and storytelling that highlights Loyola’s impact locally, regionally, and nationally. The Director combines high-level strategy with strong writing, relationship-building, and execution skills to position the university as a leader in Jesuit higher education.

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy that supports Loyola’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

• Oversee all internal communications, including campus-wide announcements, presidential and cabinet-level communications, newsletters, and other institutional messages to ensure clarity, timeliness, and brand consistency.

• Serve as Loyola’s primary media relations contact and spokesperson, fostering strong relationships with journalists and securing coverage that advances the university’s reputation.

• Draft and edit press releases, media statements, speeches, talking points, op-eds, and other key content on behalf of university leadership.

• Oversee the production, editing, and distribution of digital and print communications, including newsletters, magazines, and institutional reports.

• Provide leadership in crisis communications planning and response, including maintaining and updating the university’s Crisis Communication Plan.

• Direct the monitoring of news coverage and produce regular analytics reports demonstrating reach, impact, and effectiveness of media efforts.

• Guide and oversee Loyola’s official social media presence in coordination with the broader MarCom team, ensuring strategic alignment and timely engagement.

• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate communications staff and student interns, fostering professional growth and high performance.

• Represent Marketing and Communications at university and external events.

• Collaborate with cabinet members, deans, and senior leaders to support communications needs across academic and administrative units.

• Perform other communications-related duties as assigned by the Vice President for Marketing and Communications.

• Other duties as assigned.

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field.

• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or marketing.

• Demonstrated expertise in media relations and serving as an organizational spokesperson.

• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.

• Proven ability to provide strategic communications counsel to senior leadership.

• Ability to manage multiple complex projects under tight deadlines.

• Strong knowledge of digital communications, web content management systems, and social media strategy.

Additional Desirable Qualifications     

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field.
• Experience in higher education communications.
• Demonstrated success in crisis communications management.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to use metrics to assess impact.