Communications Editor

How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached to your resume as the first page. The cover letter should address your interest in the position and outline the skills and experience that directly relate to the position. Also include samples of your work, portfolio, or link to your personal website demonstrating your proficiency or qualifications.

Summary

This posting is for a Communications Editor to join the International Institute (II) communications team. We are looking to hire a communications professional who can work within a team and partner with II colleagues and center staff and directors, to promote the wide range of activities at the II and its 17 centers and programs.

Key skills and attributes required for this position include:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Innovative and independent thinking.

• Expertise in a wide variety of communication tools, including websites, social media, email, and printed materials to effectively convey information.

• Flexibility, adaptability, patience, and a positive approach to teamwork and collaboration.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Who We Are

The University of Michigan International Institute (II), a part of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), stimulates research and teaching on critical areas of the world and on international issues that cut across world regions and disciplines. The institute fosters cooperation among the university's departments, schools, and colleges. The II develops and supports international teaching, research, and public affairs programming that helps students and faculty see the world through a global lens.

The II houses 16 centers and programs focused on specific world regions and global themes. These centers and programs rank among the nation's finest in their respective fields of study. The II and its centers distribute over $4 million to U-M faculty and students annually, resulting in approximately 500 awards for international study and research. These awards promote global understanding across the campus and help build connections with intellectuals and institutions worldwide.

Responsibilities*

Communications Planning and Coordination (30%)

• Collaborate with center staff and directors to plan communication strategies for various events and activities including identifying target audiences and discussing publication content and distribution methods.

• Establish and maintain relationships with other communications offices on campus, promoting the image of the centers and II across campus, ensuring events are publicized, and leveraging campus resources effectively.

• Prepare and distribute materials in both printed and electronic forms, partnering with vendors as needed. Liaise with contributors, edit content, and oversee the production and distribution of written and digital publications.

• Ensure that the integrity of U-M, LSA, II, and center branding is maintained per university guidelines.

• Oversee projects from start to finish, ensuring deadlines are met and keeping relevant parties informed of progress.

Websites and Social Media Management (25%)

• Coordinate with II communications team members and center directors and staff on website design and content, ensuring information is accurate and current. Publish center events, news, and content updates in a timely manner. Make informed decisions on how best to display this information for the intended audience.

• Write and edit website content, staying current with training on Adobe AEM websites as supported by LSA Web Services. Use analytics to inform website strategy.

• Create and manage social media content. Use tools like Sprout to schedule content as needed.

Graphic Design and Production (20%)

• In coordination with center staff, create printed and electronic publicity materials (such as posters, flyers, banners, postcards, etc.) to promote different events and activities. Adhere to university branding guidelines when creating materials.

• Create distinctive templates for event posters, e-newsletters, email campaigns, and other publicity materials.

• Post announcements to digital signs; purchase advertising space in both printed and electronic formats.

• Assist the centers in creating promotional items such as t-shirts, notebooks, and bags. Coordinate with approved vendors for ordering.

Writing and Editing (15%)

• Collaborate with directors, staff, and other contributors, such as students and faculty, to write and edit content, including press releases and other documents, to publicize II and area study center activities, news, and events.

• Liaise with contributors, edit content, and oversee the production and distribution of written and digital publications.

• Review, edit, and proofread news items, stories, and newsletters as needed, adhering to U-M's editorial style guidelines.

Team Collaboration and Professional Development (10%)

• Support team members and participate in special projects as needed.

• Maintain professional and technological knowledge and skills through continuous learning.

• Attend meetings, workshops, and training sessions to stay updated on best practices.

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 2 or more years of professional experience in communications or marketing.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Demonstrated competence in creating and editing a variety of promotional materials.

• Experience with graphic design using Adobe Creative Suite or other software and a basic understanding of graphic design principles and practices.

• Familiarity with HTML and experience using AEM to develop and fully utilize websites.

• Demonstrated proficiency with professional, effective social media usage.

• Experience with mailing campaign tools (e.g., Mailchimp) for tracking contacts and sending digital communications.

• Experience with writing, copyediting, and proofreading and familiarity with using writing style guides.

• Attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to problem solve effectively within appropriate guidelines and parameters.

• Ability to track and follow multiple concurrent tasks through completion.

• Highly developed organizational skills, along with experience and competence, in utilizing and leveraging technology.

• Demonstrated commitment to providing excellent customer service, with the ability to work with diverse constituents.

• Flexibility, adaptability, patience, and good team-building skills that are essential to working effectively in this team-oriented environment.

Desired Qualifications*

• Background in international education and international affairs.

• Experience working in higher education.

• Familiarity with U-M policies, units, and branding.

Work Schedule

40 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Work Locations

The College of Literature, Science, and the Arts has a flexible and hybrid work policy. Work may be performed on campus and remotely as approved by the supervisor. This position will be expected to work a minimum of three days on campus each week during the academic year.

Additional Information

The salary range for this position is $56,000 to $67,000, please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.

As one of the world's great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.

To learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion in LSA, please visit lsa.umich.edu/lsa/dei