Strategic Communications Manager

Strategic Communications Manager

The University System of Maryland's Office of Communications and Marketing is looking for a Strategic Communications Manager to serve in a critical role that helps position the System as a leader and advocate for higher education. We are seeking a strategic communicator to join a nimble team that manages the System's brand and proactively tells the story of our impact in Maryland and beyond.

The Strategic Communications Manager will report to the Vice Chancellor for Communications and Marketing and contribute to the development of system-wide communications strategies that support the mission, vision, and brand positioning of the System and its partners. The incumbent will work proactively with stakeholders across the system to identify engaging story ideas and craft creative content for multiple audiences across the system's channels, including: websites, social media, press releases, speeches, legislative testimony, newsletter content, and other forms of content. The incumbent must be a sharp and creative writer who is equally comfortable drafting stories and pitching ideas to advance our messages.

Content Development:

• Proactively identifies and develops content opportunities that align with USM's strategic goals and brand positioning.
• Creates compelling written content for websites, social media, press releases, newsletters, video scripts, speeches, legislative testimony, and other platforms.
• Supports the development of executive communications for the Chancellor, Board of Regents, and System leadership.
• Ensures consistency of voice, messaging, and branding across all communication materials.

Media Relations:

• Serves as the primary contact for media inquiries and public information requests.
• Leads the planning and execution of proactive media strategies to raise the profile of USM and its institutions.
• Collaborates with System leaders to develop and pitch story ideas that highlight USM's impact, innovations, and priorities.
• Provides guidance on crisis communication and support issue management efforts in coordination with the Vice Chancellor and executive leadership.

Media Monitoring:

• Manages media monitoring tools to track coverage and identify relevant news and trends.
• Produces a daily Media Scan for internal stakeholders, highlighting key coverage of USM and relevant higher education issues.
• Analyzes media trends to inform communication strategies and measure the effectiveness of media outreach efforts.