Position Announcement

Assistant Director, University Relations

Recruitment No. 6570216

Human Resources seeks candidates for the Assistant Director, University Relations position in University Relations.  The employee reports to the Director, University Relations (Director).

RESPONSIBILITIES

Media relations:
According to assigned area(s) of responsibility and in a timely manner, manage, solicit, coordinate, prepare and disseminate information in the form of news releases to appropriate media outlets at the local, regional, state and national levels to provide information about Washburn University (WU) to the public.  Issue in timely fashion news releases to hometowns of students to publicize individual and/or group achievements, such as scholarship awards, organization officers, academic competitions, leadership achievements.

Publications, Social Media & Website:
Write and edit publications, including newsletters, fliers, student e-newsletter(s), etc. to publicize/report University achievements and activities.  Solicit, coordinate, prepare and issue information to social media outlets, assist the University’s website committee and individual departments in updating their information on the website as needed to provide current, relevant information to the public.  Review and edit documents written by other staff to ensure they are well-written according to best practices and University style and that each document holds appeal for specific target audiences.

Community Relations/Special Events:
Serve as a liaison/WU representative on committees for community events, such as Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce, to maintain the Washburn presence within the community.  Plan and execute special and on-going WU events such as Strawberry Breakfast, holiday party, staff/faculty campus social activities, faculty/staff recognition to ensure the success of each event.  Take an active role in and assume task-oriented responsibilities for on-campus committees planning events and/or campaigns, such as family day, homecoming, groundbreakings, building dedications, and the WU United Way campaign to lend leadership, support and assistance in event planning and coordination to other University departments.

Campus relations
Establish and maintain contact with other departments and organizations to identify and stay apprised of relevant information for news releases or media notices.  Serve as a resource for campus organizations and departments to assist with communicating and publicizing events, activities and achievements within and beyond the campus.

 

Mascot
Manage all aspects of the mascot performer program, including but not limited to supervision of student performers; scheduling appearances, costume maintenance and care, and recruitment and training of performers.

Miscellaneous duties and responsibilities:
Work as directed or with the Director to complete special projects.  Keep the Director apprised of concerns, developments and information that may impact the University and/or University Relations.  Serve as back-up to the Director at times of heavy workload or when the Director is unavailable.

Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED:  Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of experience in journalism, communications, public relations or closely related discipline.  Proficiency using technology tools such as graphics programs, content management systems and Photoshop; and in proofreading and organization/time management.  Experience in event planning and in the use of social media.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to effectively write accurate and engaging content, work effectively in a team environment and with staff at all levels within an organization. Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedures in public relations.  Ability to move and maneuver materials and equipment weighing as much as 30 pounds, and to travel occasionally within the state of Kansas.

PREFERRED:  Basic photography skills.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Submit a letter of interest, resume, Resume Supplement for Administrative Positions, copy of official college transcript(s), and names and phone numbers of three professional references to getajob@washburn.edu or to Washburn University Human Resources, 118 Morgan Hall, 1700 SW College, Topeka, Kansas  66621.  Review of applications will begin March 7, 2016, and continue until interviews are scheduled.  Salary is upper $40K to $50K commensurate with qualifications. Excellent fringe benefits package.  Employment at Washburn University will be conditioned upon satisfactory completion of a background check.

TO ENRICH EDUCATION THROUGH DIVERSITY, WASHBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.  CANDIDATES FROM UNDER-REPRESENTED GROUPS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.