Communications Manager - Hybrid - 138841

The Department of Neurological Surgery at UC San Diego is among the leading neurosurgical centers in the country. The department provides the full range of a contemporary neurosurgical practice, holds every major sub-specialty quality designation within the field, has developed world-class collaborative research relationships with engineering and neurosciences, and is a leading educational program in neurosurgery for medical students and residents. The department offers challenging career opportunities in the diverse areas of state-of-the-art clinical services, advanced educational programs, and cutting-edge research. The department is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees.

Under limited technical supervision of the Department Business Officer, the incumbent is responsible for the development and execution of communication and engagement strategy for the department and chair, serves as a key point of contact for communications, ensuring consistency with branding/editorial guidelines, and actively manages projects through a variety of channels intended for diverse audiences. Deliverables include, but are not limited to written, visual, digital, and electronic communications. Position has responsibility for developing overall content based on departmental initiatives, events, and issues of importance. Position has a dotted reporting line to the School of Medicine communications director and collaborates with closely with Health Sciences and health system communications professionals to determine the best methodologies to reach key internal and external audiences on the department's education and research initiatives.

Incumbent is responsible for the layout, design and production of website, newsletters, social media and special projects to showcase and generate awareness of departmental research and educational activities. Independently exercises judgement for stylistic consistency and grammatical accuracy in alignment with UC San Diego's branding and editorial style guide.. Creates original graphic content or sources appropriate images for all communications platforms. Well versed in content management systems and search engine optimization. Requires interviewing a variety of department members to include academic leadership, faculty, residents and other administrative employees. Responsible for initiating and expanding the scope of information presented and maintaining a detailed editorial calendar and planning timelines. This position uses independent judgment on the development of design and content for the department's communications needs. Creates and implements original content for, news stories, newsletters, social media and other department channels.

Develops and maintains professional presentations related to both the chair and department-wide communications. Develops content and manages distribution of information in support of U.S. News and World Report's annual ranking process. Supports successful execution of communications plans; tracks, manages and communicates progress against timelines and goals. Assumes initiative and provides support to the chair and business officer, as well as provides superior customer service/responsiveness to internal and external constituents.

Performs other related functions as required. Independently oversees a comprehensive communications program for a unit with moderately complex communications requirements. The communications program usually includes written, visual, digital and electronic communications. Works with management to develop and execute organizational communication and market branding strategy. Designs and implements information campaigns.

• Seven years of related experience, education/training, OR an Bachelor's degree in related area plus three years of related experience/training.

• Knowledge of all aspects of communications, including strategic planning for various media venues, technical aspects and requirements of various venues, and most appropriate and effective applications.

• Knowledge and understanding of technical applications including design concepts, various media, and applications for web, social media, and newsletters.

• Knowledge of the organization, its achievements, mission, vision, goals, policies, practices, infrastructure, and a strong knowledge of current affairs, and issues in higher education and / or health sciences.

• Solid skills to create, develop, and implement comprehensive long and short term strategic communications plans.

• Knowledge and skills to advise and consult with management to ensure delivery of the desired message to the target and / or broad general audiences.

• Solid written, verbal, interpersonal communications, active listening and political acumen skills.

• Knowledge of location protocols and channels for communication internally and externally.

• Demonstrated experience working in an academic medical center and/or scientific/medical research environment.

• Requires a flexible schedule.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.

• This position may require responses to communications outside of standard business hours.