Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist
Inside Higher Ed, Athens, GA, United States
Posting Number
S14689P
Working Title Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist
Department MarComm-VP Office
About the University of Georgia Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
Posting Type External
Retirement Plan TRS or ORP
Employment Type Employee
Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible
Full/Part Time Full Time
Additional Schedule Information Monday‑Friday, 8am‑5pm. Occasional nights and weekends required.
Advertised Salary $48,000-$55,000
Posting Date 02/09/2026
Open until filled Yes
Proposed Starting Date 05/01/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants Required Materials for Application:
Resume
Cover letter
Three published writing samples
Three professional references
Location of Vacancy Athens Area
EEO Policy Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Classification Title Communications Pro II
FLSA Exempt
FTE 1.00
Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent
Minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience
Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading ability for technical and non‑technical audiences
Proficiency in Microsoft 365
Familiarity with AP Style
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines
Experience in designing graphics, presentations and event collateral
Strong understanding of digital marketing campaigns and analytics
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Canva
Familiarity with project management systems, such as Asana
Familiarity with higher education
Position Summary The Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist supports the Office of Strategic Institutional Initiatives in the Division of Marketing & Communications (MarComm) in developing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy to advance the university’s strategic goals, with a primary focus on external communications, publications, and digital media for UGA’s Innovation District. This role also collaborates with key campus units on communications that enhance high‑visibility, enterprise‑level initiatives defined by UGA’s senior leadership. Key responsibilities include creating and distributing compelling content, monitoring and managing digital content channels, designing and implementing targeted email marketing campaigns, and using data analytics to inform ongoing communications efforts.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
Strong knowledge of marketing, communications, and public relations principles
Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders and deadlines
Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize competing demands.
Familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems, and project management tools.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including copywriting, editing, general interest writing, and technical/science writing
Demonstrated ability to work independently with a high degree of judgment, discretion, and professionalism
Innovation District Communications
Act as the primary liaison between the Innovation District and MarComm, ensuring collaboration and alignment of shared priorities.
Develop and maintain a strategic and effective communication plan for UGA’s Innovation District in line with the university’s strategic priorities.
Develop story ideas, conduct interviews with faculty, staff and stakeholders, and write high‑quality content to elevate the Innovation District through compelling storytelling.
Oversee the Innovation District’s digital communications, managing official associated social media channels, calendar and websites.
Coordinate social media posts with UGA’s central accounts for greater visibility and impact.
Maintain and update content to ensure accuracy, relevance, and consistency with the institution’s brand and messaging.
Develop, design and review presentations, newsletters, publications, infographics and talking points to inform and market to Innovation District stakeholders.
Regularly analyze communication metrics to inform and refine overall strategy.
Work with an event manager to plan and implement annual events for the Innovation District.
Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications
Develop story ideas, conduct interviews with faculty, staff and stakeholders, and write high‑quality content to support the institution’s strategic initiatives through press releases, marketing copy and research stories.
Collaborate with MarComm editorial, creative and digital media staff to strengthen communications and storytelling about key initiatives.
Assist with ongoing maintenance of stakeholder mailing lists.
Collaboration with Key Campus Units
Collaborate with communicators from key campus units to develop content that reinforces the university’s support of key unit announcements, such as building dedications and recognition events.
Cultivate relationships with unit communicators to foster a collaborative work environment that supports the university’s goals and ensures an ongoing dialogue.
Be knowledgeable about MarComm’s resources and tools that can help units with marketing/communications needs.
Contribution to Unit Synergy
Utilize MarComm’s workflow processes and tools and leverage the project management system to ensure projects are completed efficiently and adhere to deadlines.
Attend all Strategic Institutional Initiatives and MarComm meetings as relevant to advance the division’s priorities. Communicate recurrently with supervisor and team members to foster transparency.
Interact with other disciplines within MarComm to cultivate an engaging, productive, and healthy work environment.
Other Duties as Assigned As needed, additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned by the supervisor to support departmental and university priorities.
Contact Details For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name Angela Hurt
Recruitment Contact Email angelahurt@uga.edu
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Working Title Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist
Department MarComm-VP Office
About the University of Georgia Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
Posting Type External
Retirement Plan TRS or ORP
Employment Type Employee
Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible
Full/Part Time Full Time
Additional Schedule Information Monday‑Friday, 8am‑5pm. Occasional nights and weekends required.
Advertised Salary $48,000-$55,000
Posting Date 02/09/2026
Open until filled Yes
Proposed Starting Date 05/01/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants Required Materials for Application:
Resume
Cover letter
Three published writing samples
Three professional references
Location of Vacancy Athens Area
EEO Policy Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Classification Title Communications Pro II
FLSA Exempt
FTE 1.00
Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent
Minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience
Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading ability for technical and non‑technical audiences
Proficiency in Microsoft 365
Familiarity with AP Style
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines
Experience in designing graphics, presentations and event collateral
Strong understanding of digital marketing campaigns and analytics
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Canva
Familiarity with project management systems, such as Asana
Familiarity with higher education
Position Summary The Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications Specialist supports the Office of Strategic Institutional Initiatives in the Division of Marketing & Communications (MarComm) in developing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy to advance the university’s strategic goals, with a primary focus on external communications, publications, and digital media for UGA’s Innovation District. This role also collaborates with key campus units on communications that enhance high‑visibility, enterprise‑level initiatives defined by UGA’s senior leadership. Key responsibilities include creating and distributing compelling content, monitoring and managing digital content channels, designing and implementing targeted email marketing campaigns, and using data analytics to inform ongoing communications efforts.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
Strong knowledge of marketing, communications, and public relations principles
Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders and deadlines
Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize competing demands.
Familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems, and project management tools.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including copywriting, editing, general interest writing, and technical/science writing
Demonstrated ability to work independently with a high degree of judgment, discretion, and professionalism
Innovation District Communications
Act as the primary liaison between the Innovation District and MarComm, ensuring collaboration and alignment of shared priorities.
Develop and maintain a strategic and effective communication plan for UGA’s Innovation District in line with the university’s strategic priorities.
Develop story ideas, conduct interviews with faculty, staff and stakeholders, and write high‑quality content to elevate the Innovation District through compelling storytelling.
Oversee the Innovation District’s digital communications, managing official associated social media channels, calendar and websites.
Coordinate social media posts with UGA’s central accounts for greater visibility and impact.
Maintain and update content to ensure accuracy, relevance, and consistency with the institution’s brand and messaging.
Develop, design and review presentations, newsletters, publications, infographics and talking points to inform and market to Innovation District stakeholders.
Regularly analyze communication metrics to inform and refine overall strategy.
Work with an event manager to plan and implement annual events for the Innovation District.
Strategic Institutional Initiatives Communications
Develop story ideas, conduct interviews with faculty, staff and stakeholders, and write high‑quality content to support the institution’s strategic initiatives through press releases, marketing copy and research stories.
Collaborate with MarComm editorial, creative and digital media staff to strengthen communications and storytelling about key initiatives.
Assist with ongoing maintenance of stakeholder mailing lists.
Collaboration with Key Campus Units
Collaborate with communicators from key campus units to develop content that reinforces the university’s support of key unit announcements, such as building dedications and recognition events.
Cultivate relationships with unit communicators to foster a collaborative work environment that supports the university’s goals and ensures an ongoing dialogue.
Be knowledgeable about MarComm’s resources and tools that can help units with marketing/communications needs.
Contribution to Unit Synergy
Utilize MarComm’s workflow processes and tools and leverage the project management system to ensure projects are completed efficiently and adhere to deadlines.
Attend all Strategic Institutional Initiatives and MarComm meetings as relevant to advance the division’s priorities. Communicate recurrently with supervisor and team members to foster transparency.
Interact with other disciplines within MarComm to cultivate an engaging, productive, and healthy work environment.
Other Duties as Assigned As needed, additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned by the supervisor to support departmental and university priorities.
Contact Details For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name Angela Hurt
Recruitment Contact Email angelahurt@uga.edu
#J-18808-Ljbffr