Director of Editorial Strategy & Publications

Director Of Editorial Strategy & Publications

Penn Dental Medicine seeks a strategic and experienced Director of Editorial Strategy & Publications to lead high-impact communications initiatives and oversee the development of integrated content across print, digital, and media platforms. Reporting to the Assistant Dean for Marketing & Communications, this role plays a key leadership function in advancing the School's brand, reputation, and engagement with key audiences, including prospective students, alumni, donors, and the broader academic and clinical community.
The Director is responsible for translating institutional priorities into cohesive, multi-channel communications strategies and managing major marketing and communications projects from concept through execution. This role provides leadership in shaping institutional messaging, ensuring consistency across platforms, and driving initiatives that support student recruitment, alumni engagement, and fundraising outcomes. The Director also leverages emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools, to enhance content development, streamline workflows, and support data-informed decision-making. A central responsibility of this role is oversight of the Penn Dental Medicine Journal (PDMJ), the School's flagship publication and a key vehicle for alumni and donor engagement.
Strategic Communications Leadership

Lead the development and execution of integrated communications strategies that align with institutional priorities and elevate the School's brand and reputation.
Translate strategic initiatives into clear, compelling messaging across multiple channels and audiences.
Partner with the Assistant Dean to advance key marketing and communications priorities.
Major Publications & Signature Projects

Direct the strategy, development, and production of the Penn Dental Medicine Journal (PDMJ).
Lead high-profile publications and special projects that support institutional goals.
Manage complex projects from concept through execution, coordinating stakeholders and vendors.
Marketing & Advancement Initiatives

Lead and contribute to initiatives supporting student recruitment, alumni engagement, and fundraising.
Collaborate with Development & Alumni Relations to align communications with philanthropic priorities.
Media Relations & Institutional Visibility

Oversee media strategy and external communications to enhance visibility and thought leadership.
Serve as liaison to University Communications and external media partners.
Ensure coordinated, timely, and accurate messaging.
Digital Content Strategy & Web Oversight

Provide strategic direction for website and digital content aligned with brand and engagement goals.
Collaborate with digital and IT partners to enhance content delivery and performance.
Cross-Functional Leadership & Brand Stewardship

Lead collaboration across departments to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.
Ensure adherence to University communications policies and standards.
Creative Direction & Visual Content Oversight

Oversee visual storytelling, including management of external photographers and creative vendors.
Ensure all assets align with institutional brand standards.
Special Projects & Operational Support

Lead or support priority communications initiatives and special projects.
Contribute to team planning and operations within a lean communications structure.
Other duties as assigned. Provide and maintain expertise in innovative solutions focused on the responsible stewardship of Penn Dental Medicine and its community experience.
Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, and storytelling across multiple platforms.
Experience managing complex editorial projects and publication production processes.
Strong understanding of integrated communications, including print, digital, and media relations.
Familiarity with content management systems (e.g., WordPress) and digital publishing tools preferred.
Familiarity with AI-enabled content tools and data-informed communications strategies.
This role requires on-site presence to actively contribute as a collaborative member of the Penn Dental team.
Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania