Communications Manager, Media & Digital Strategy

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

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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).