Deputy Director for Communications and Archives

Howard University Campus Planning, Architecture & Development

The purpose of this position is to provide technical and administrative support to the Executive Director for Campus Planning, Architecture & Development in the areas of communications and archives, to encompass all aspects of REDCAM's real estate development portfolio.
Position will work with other Deputy Directors, Project Managers and various stakeholders to support the Executive Director in a communications and project documentation capacity, while assisting peers to produce high-quality project outcomes, detailed documentation, and correlated data/language sets.
Principal responsibilities include:
Planning, oversight, production and implementation of communications-related activities for REDCAM, including website, press, media relations, social media, publications, awards, grant writing, presentations, and multimedia/video for both internal and external stakeholders.
Planning, oversight, production and implementation of archives-related activities for REDCAM, including documenting completed and ongoing projects; cataloguing, digitizing and contextualizing materials; creating and documenting narratives and storytelling elements; maintaining a weekly ledger of REDCAM progress and activities; conducting historic and contextual research projects.
Ensuring units within the university's stakeholder network (internal and external) have appropriate access to REDCAM messaging.
Developing effective communication strategies and correlated tactics.
Managing and improving internal communications (memos, newsletters, etc.).
Managing and improving internal and external communications flows.
Developing and implementing a communication strategy that includes media outreach, marketing tools, collateral, content creation, social media management, and other cutting-edge approaches to communications for both internal and external audiences.
Arranging and coordinating press conferences, town halls, and planned events with stakeholders.
Drafting content for mass media or website.
Liaises with media and handles requests for interviews, statements etc.
Managing external communications vendors and collaborating with university communications and marketing professionals to create and implement communications plans and produce copy, including for advertisements or articles.
Researching and writing press releases, and content for the REDCAM website, infographics, blogs, and newsletters.
Acquiring and maintaining a detailed knowledge of REDCAM and University policies, principles, and strategies, and keeping up-to-date with relevant developments.
Facilitating the resolution of disputes with external role-players.
Adhering to the University's style guide, ensuring high-quality and error-free content.
Working with key internal role-players to brainstorm content ideas, in line with the REDCAM strategy and in support of various brand initiatives.
Supporting and evaluating results of communication campaigns with the team.
Building and maintaining relationships with journalists and key external role-players.
Determining content topics, coordinating with others to obtain information, writing, editing, designing and sending to students, alumni, donors and community and business contacts.
Preparing and supervising the production of press releases, announcements, brochures, event materials, photographs, newsletters, etc.
Promoting a positive public image for REDCAM and the University.
Managing contracts and contractors for communications and archive-related projects, ensuring that Howard University policies are followed and projects are delivered on time and on budget.
Effectively administering supplier base to attain cost savings targets and supporting spending initiatives with Diverse Firms (e.g. CBE, Minority/Women owned Business Enterprises, etc).
Tracking and reporting the on-going and anticipated costs for planned and underway communications and archives projects and managing commitments within available financial resources. Maintaining comprehensive short- and long-term budgeting for respective projects.
Developing project management materials in support of new and updated communication or archive plans, programs and requirements.
Providing the necessary leadership to manage large and complex communications and archives projects.
Facilitating the establishment and collection of project requirements, objectives and expectations, and clearly communicating this information to project teams.
Monitoring and maintaining project documentation for capital projects.
Preparing and presenting detailed reports and proposals.
Collecting a variety of statistical data and providing analytical reports.
Generating informational graphics and other media/visualizations.
Developing and maintaining REDCAM archives and catalogue systems for archival materials.
Providing technical and administrative assistance and information to staff.
Performing other duties as required
Core competencies include, but are not limited to: web design and content production; copywriting and editing; social media management and content production; grant writing; video and multimedia production; conducting project-based research; cataloguing and digitizing materials; creating presentations; and conducting media relations. Solid understanding of project management principles, working knowledge of MS Office; photo and video-editing software, excellent communication (oral and written), interpersonal, and presentation skills, outstanding organizational and planning abilities, familiarity with aspects of large, complex major capital projects from inception through completion, with particular focus on budget, schedule, quality, and compliance. Creative problem-solving skills to gather relevant information needed to solve amorphous problems in the field. Ability to interpret blueprints, preferably including mechanical, electrical and plumbing disciplines. Knowledge of principles and practices of research and data collection. Familiarity with design & construction terms and acronyms. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to maintain effective working relations with students, faculty, staff, vendors/contractors and the public. Project management skills from planning through implementation. Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
Minimum requirements include a bachelor's degree in communications, media, journalism, or related area of study. Minimum 5 years' experience performing similar roles and responsibilities, with particular focus on communications and archives. Experience, interest, and familiarity with urban planning, architecture, design, history, and real estate development is strongly desired.
Compensation Range: $100,000 - $110,000