Communications Manager, Media & Digital Strategy

Apply for Job Job ID 373770
Location Twin Cities
Job Family Marketing & Communications
Full/Part Time Full-Time
Regular/Temporary Regular
Job Code 8342CG
Employee Class Civil Service
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About the Job

The Communications Manager, Media & Digital Strategy advances the Humphrey School's visibility and reputation through media relations, content development, and social media strategy. This position manages day-to-day editorial and media work, translating faculty expertise, student impact, and institutional priorities into timely, engaging content across platforms.

The role requires strong editorial judgment and a journalism-informed approach to storytelling. Working closely with the Director of Strategic Communications and the Creative Multimedia Manager, this person ensures cohesive messaging, consistent brand voice, and effective audience engagement.
Priority Deadline: 5/25/2026
Visa Language: Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.
Hybrid in office 3x week

Key Responsibilities

Content Development & Social Media (40%)
Write, edit, and publish written and visual content across channels, including web, email, and social media; select and curate photography and graphics to support editorial storytelling
Write, edit, and produce the biweekly Humphrey Herald internal newsletter and twice-yearly external newsletter
Lead the development and execution of the Humphrey School's social media strategy across LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms
Manage the editorial calendar in collaboration with the Director of Strategic Communications
Identify, develop, and produce high-impact stories; conduct interviews and translate complex research into accessible content
Edit communications from colleagues in events, alumni, development, and admissions as needed
Maintain archive of all major communications assets
Media Relations & Public Visibility (35%)
Develop and execute proactive media strategies to position faculty and leadership as experts
Write and distribute news releases and media advisories
Pitch stories to local, regional, and national media, coordinating with central University Marketing Communications as needed.
Serve as primary contact for media inquiries and maintain the media contacts database
Build and maintain relationships with journalists and external content producers
Prepare faculty and leadership for media engagement, including talking points and coaching
Coordinate with central University Marketing Communications to promote Humphrey School stories for broader visibility across University channels
Track and communicate earned media coverage to key internal and external audiences
Event Communications Support (10%)
Collaborate with the events team on planning, promoting, and executing School events, including lectures, panels, conferences, and special programs
Provide on-site media and communications support for priority events, including greeting media attendees and coordinating with photographers and videographers
Capture and repurpose event content for post-event stories, media pitches, and digital channels
Attend and provide general support for events as needed
Digital Content Development & Coordination (15%)
Publish and maintain website content in coordination with the Creative Multimedia Manager
Ensure digital content meets accessibility, SEO, and brand standards
Support email communications in collaboration with the broader communications team
Monitor and report on content performance across digital channels

Qualifications

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, or related field
At least two years of professional experience, or six years combined equivalent education and experience, with progressive responsibility in communications
Demonstrated significant writing and editing experience, including writing for web, social media, media relations, and internal communications, with the ability to tailor messages to specific audiences
Experience supporting or executing media relations activities, including pitching stories, responding to media inquiries, or developing press materials
Experience developing and executing content across digital platforms, including social media and web
Demonstrated understanding of digital communications tools, platforms, and best practices, including social media strategy and analytics
Strong editorial judgment and ability to identify and develop compelling stories for diverse audiences
Experience/proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, email, and internet applications
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in journalism, digital journalism, or multimedia storytelling
Demonstrated ability to identify and develop compelling stories on deadline
Experience producing short-form video content for social media platforms, including conducting and editing interviews using mobile tools
Ability to translate complex policy topics into engaging, accessible narratives for broad audiences
Experience integrating storytelling across media, social, and digital platforms
Familiarity with Salesforce Marketing Cloud or similar email marketing platforms
Experience with content management systems, particularly Drupal
Demonstrated understanding of and interest in public affairs and policy issues

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $64,000 - $72,000 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type :Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer-paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.
How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
In addition to a cover letter and resume, applicants are encouraged to submit a writing sample.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).