Associate Vice Chancellor, Integrated Strategic Communications

Associate Vice Chancellor, Integrated Strategic Communications
University Communications and Marketing is the central agency responsible for shaping and sharing the story of NC State University. As the stewards of the NC State brand, we drive the university’s reputation and visibility through integrated marketing, strategic communications, and digital engagement. We are a team of creators, strategists, and problem‑solvers dedicated to the “Think and Do” spirit.

We are seeking a collaborative leader with significant experience leading strategic communications, media relations, and reputation management within complex, high‑visibility organizations. This executive role serves as the university’s spokesperson and primary reputation promoter and guardian, shaping how NC State engages with news media, navigates complex issues, and translates research and institutional impact into clear public understanding.

Strategic Media Relations & Brand Visibility

Build and sustain relationships with local, national, and international media to elevate NC State expertise and research.

Lead proactive storytelling that highlights student success, faculty achievement, and institutional and research impact.

Oversee news operations, ensuring timely, accurate, and high‑quality news content.

Issues Management & Crisis Communications

Lead crisis and issues management with clarity and composure in high‑pressure situations.

Advise university leadership on emerging issues, reputational risk, and sensitive communications.

Coordinate cross‑campus response to ensure aligned and consistent messaging during critical incidents.

Research Communications & Impact Storytelling

Translate complex research into clear, compelling narratives that demonstrate public value.

Partner with research leadership to increase visibility in prestige, trade, and industry media.

Executive Communications & Thought Leadership

Shape leadership messaging, including speeches, op‑eds, and institutional narratives.

Align executive communications with broader reputation and media strategy to ensure consistency and trust.

Collaboration & Culture

Collaborate and partner closely with the AVC for Brand and Integrated Strategic Operations and the AVC for Integrated Content Strategy.

Develop and mentor the team, with a strong focus on division‑wide culture.

Other Responsibilities
In addition to the core responsibilities, there will be opportunities to represent the division through engagement with a wide range of internal and external constituents, including university leadership, public officials, representatives from the UNC System and peer institutions, students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and members of the public. These opportunities will be assigned in collaboration with the Vice Chancellor of Communications and Marketing in support of evolving departmental and institutional priorities.

Required Qualifications

Post‑baccalaureate degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations or a related field; or a Bachelor’s degree with equivalent broad‑based independent experience in executive‑level strategic communications.

Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in communications, public relations, or related field, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Other Required Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information (such as scientific research or crisis scenarios) into clear, compelling narratives for varied audiences.

Proven mastery in managing high‑stakes issues and crisis communications, with a track record of maintaining organizational trust and clarity under pressure.

Established history of cultivating trust‑based relationships with media and influencers; ability to leverage these networks to secure high‑impact earned media.

Demonstrated skill in providing candid, strategic counsel to C‑suite executives or senior government officials regarding sensitive public relations matters.

Proven ability to lead and integrate varied teams (e.g., former journalists, science writers, crisis managers) toward shared strategic goals.

Demonstrated experience leading or supporting organizational change in complex environments, including aligning teams, communicating transitions clearly, and sustaining performance during periods of strategic or operational shift.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working within a Research 1 university or a science/technology‑focused organization, with specific skill in communicating STEM topics to lay audiences.

Proficiency in integrating social media listening and digital engagement tools into crisis response and reputation management strategies.

Experience navigating the intersection of public relations, government affairs, and higher education policy.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision

Flexible Spending Account

Retirement Programs

Disability Plans

Life Insurance

Accident Plan

Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs

12 Holidays Each Year

Tuition and Academic Assistance

EEO & Legal Information
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919‑513‑0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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