PR and Communications Manager Job at Western Governors University in Salt Lake C

Apply for the PR and Communications Manager position at Western Governors University.

Salary range: $106,700.00 - $165,400.00 (Professional Grade 312).

Job Description

The Communications Manager drives strategic communications for WGU’s School of Education operations, focusing on elevating the voice and visibility of the Senior Vice President of the School of Education. Reporting to the Director of Academics and Ed Tech Communications, the role shapes and promotes a strong, positive public image of WGU through narratives across traditional and digital media, managing public relations efforts, and supporting executive communications.

Key responsibilities include research, drafting high-impact communications—speeches, press releases, talking points, internal memos, digital content, social media—and supporting conferences, media outreach, and special events.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver high-impact messaging on behalf of the SVP of the School of Education and school leadership.
• Craft compelling thought leadership content (blogs, op‑eds, panel pitches).
• Prepare briefing materials and media prep for school leaders before interviews and speaking engagements.
• Provide on‑site strategic support at high‑visibility conferences and events.
• Lead media relations strategy for the School of Education portfolio and work with WGU’s PR firm to secure coverage.
• Monitor industry news to surface timely opportunities for commentary and thought leadership.
• Build and maintain relationships with key industry and education journalists, influencers, and media platforms.
• Oversee creation of original written and visual content for newsletters, social media, and digital storytelling.
• Collaborate with internal partners to maintain and update web content related to school initiatives.
• Source relevant internal and external data to support storytelling.
• Serve as the communications liaison between the school team and other university departments.
• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communication plan aligned with university priorities.
• Partner with People & Talent, Internal Comms, and school leadership for employee engagement and recognition.
• Partner with the Conferences & Events team for speaking opportunities at industry summits.
• Track communications impact and engagement metrics.
• Advise leadership on message framing and brand positioning.

Knowledge, Skills, and Strengths

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Understanding of higher education environment.
• Proficiency with social media and communication tools (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Microsoft Office, Adobe products).
• Familiarity with media relations practices.
• Ability to conceptualize projects and manage multiple priorities.
• Strategic thinker with judgment in a fast‑paced environment.
• Detail oriented, organized, and able to meet deadlines.
• Displays a competent and confident professional demeanor.
• Works well in a team environment.
• Ability to manage shifting priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative yet self‑directed and motivated by continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communication, marketing, public relations, or related field.
• Minimum five years of experience in media, public relations, marketing, or communications within a higher education or School of Education environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in higher education.
• Experience working within the School of Education industry.
• Experience as a media reporter or public relations practitioner.

Competencies

• Work with stakeholders across an organization to collaboratively achieve objectives.
• Collect and connect pertinent information.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Identify issues, assess impact, and determine appropriate communication strategy.

Experience In Lieu Of Education

Equivalent relevant experience may substitute for education degree requirements. Generally, 1 year of experience for 1 year of education is a guideline, subject to hiring manager discretion.

Physical Qualifications

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Travel Requirements

• Up to 25% travel.

Position & Application Details

This is a full‑time, regular position (40 standard weekly hours) eligible for bonuses, medical, dental, vision, telehealth, mental healthcare, health savings account, flexible spending account, basic and voluntary life insurance, disability coverage, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity supplemental coverages, legal and identity theft coverage, retirement savings plan, wellbeing program, discounted WGU tuition, and flexible paid time off.

How to Apply: Submit an online application. Internal WGU employees must apply through the internal job board in Workday.

Equal Employment Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic as required by law.

Accommodations

Applicants with disabilities who require assistance or accommodation during the application or interview process should contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@wgu.edu.