Inside Higher Ed is hiring: Community Relations Manager in Statesboro

About Us Georgia Southern University is the state's largest and most comprehensive center of higher education south of Atlanta. With nearly 150 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels, Georgia Southern has been designated a Carnegie Doctoral/R2 "high research" university and serves more than 29,500 students from all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico as well as 106 nations. With three vibrant campuses – the Statesboro Campus, the Armstrong Campus in Savannah and the Liberty Campus in Hinesville – Georgia Southern offers a dynamic environment which encourages learning, discovery and personal growth. Job Information Job ID: 296164 | Location: Statesboro, Georgia | Full/Part Time: Full Time | Regular/Temporary: Regular Department Botanic Garden Job Summary The Community Relations Manager will oversee, under the direction of the Director of the Botanic Garden, the garden's membership program, volunteer engagement, communications, and marketing. This dynamic role is responsible for building and sustaining strong community connections that support the garden's mission of education, conservation, and public engagement. The ideal candidate will be a skilled communicator and relationship builder who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a passion for plants, people, and place‑making. Responsibilities Develop and execute integrated marketing campaigns across digital, print, and social media platforms. Create visually appealing and on‑brand materials for membership promotions, newsletters, press releases, Garden website, social media, event flyers, and other marketing collateral using graphic design software. Manage website, social media accounts and calendars to increase audience engagement and visibility. Develop and execute strategies to recruit, retain, and engage members. Manage member communications including renewals, welcome packets, and exclusive member content. Develop and manage internal and external communication strategies to effectively engage current and potential members, including writing and distributing newsletters, email campaigns, and social media content. Develop a volunteer program to recruit, train, and support a dynamic volunteer corps including gardeners, docents, event helpers, and student interns. Represent the garden at university and public events to raise visibility and build partnerships. Work closely with the education and horticulture teams to promote public programs and exhibitions. Foster relationships with local organizations, businesses, schools, and cultural institutions. Required Qualifications Educational Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations or a similar field. Required Experience Three to five years of experience in web design, communications, or public relations. Preferred Qualifications Preferred Educational Qualifications Bachelor's Degree. Preferred Experience Experience in a nonprofit/cultural institution, museum, public garden, zoo, or nature center. Compensation $50,173 - $50,385 (exempt position paid on a monthly basis). Application Documents Resume Cover Letter Two (2) Professional References Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Consistently exhibit engaging customer service. Ability to support various constituencies served by the University. Proven proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, Google, and/or applications as required for specific position. Effective communication (verbal and written), organizational and human relations skills. Adhere to University policies and procedures to meet Institutional goals and support University's mission for student success. Apply Before April 27, 2026 (Application review may begin as early as March 23, 2026). Contact Information For more information or questions about this job posting, contact the Department of Human Resources by phone at (912) 478-6947 or by email at hrservice@georgiasouthern.edu. For technical support, please call the USG Service Desk at (877) 251-2644 or email support@usg.edu. Equal Employment Opportunity Georgia Southern University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. Individuals in need of reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in the search process should notify Human Resources at (912) 478-6947. #J-18808-Ljbffr