Communications Program Manager

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $57,200 - Midpoint: $74,300 (Salaried E9)

Department/Organization: 225101 - School of Leadership & Policy

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Job Summary: The Communications Program Manager oversees strategic communications for the college including all college-level print materials, digital content, and social media. Uses analytics and reports to inform and guide communications and campaigns.

Additional Department Summary: Oversees and implements marketing and communication efforts for The University of Alabama School of Leadership and Policy. Develops content and communication strategies to build awareness of the school, support student and faculty recruitment, promote academic programs and research, and strengthen engagement with internal and external audiences. Works closely with school leadership and University partners to help establish and maintain a clear, consistent identity for the school. Ensures marketing and communication materials align with The University of Alabama's brand standards, editorial guidance, and institutional priorities.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and six (6) years of journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience; OR master's degree and four (4) years of journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience.

Skills and Knowledge: Exceptional written and verbal communication, editing, and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of marketing, public relations, digital communications, and content strategies. Ability to translate academic, policy, and research topics into clear, engaging content for varied audiences. Knowledge of Associated Press (AP) style and professional editorial practices. Ability to develop and implement integrated communication plans. Strong project management, organizational, and time-management skills. Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines with attention to detail. Working knowledge of content management systems, preferably WordPress. Understanding of brand management and visual communication principles. Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty, staff, students, senior leaders, and external partners. Ability to use sound judgment when handling sensitive, developing, or confidential information. Ability to review communication results and use available data to improve future efforts. Proficiency with standard office and digital communication tools.

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or higher in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, English, or a related field. Experience working in higher education, government, public policy, nonprofit communications, or a similarly complex organization. Experience developing and implementing communication or content strategies. Experience managing websites and social media accounts. Experience developing content for websites, email platforms, and social media channels. Experience writing about academic programs, research, public service or policy-related topics. Experience coordinating photography, video, design, publication or event-promotion projects. Familiarity with web accessibility, email marketing and digital analytics. Experience working collaboratively with senior leaders and subject-matter experts.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.