PR and Communications Manager

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The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

At WGU it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:

Job Description

Job Profile Summary

The Communications Manager drives strategic communications for WGUs School of Education operations with a direct focus on elevating the voice and visibility of the Senior Vice President of School of Education. Reporting to the Director of Academics and Ed Tech Communications and serving as an integral member of the Communications team this role is responsible for shaping and promoting a strong positive public image of WGU. This includes developing and executing compelling narratives across traditional and digital media managing public relations efforts and supporting executive communications.

The Manager conducts in-depth research drafts and edits a variety of high-impact communicationsincluding speeches press releases talking points internal memos digital content and social mediaand contributes to the planning and promotion of conferences media outreach and special events.

Responsibilities

• Develops and delivers high-impact messaging on behalf of the SVP of the School of Education and school leadership including talking points media statements conference remarks and executive communications.
• Crafts compelling thought leadership content (blogs op-eds panel pitches) that elevate the SVPs voice within the education and workforce landscape.
• Prepares briefing materials and media prep for school leaders in advance of interviews speaking engagements and external appearances.
• Provides onsite strategic support at high-visibility conferences and events to ensure message alignment and brand presence.
• Leads media relations strategy for the School of Education portfolio and working with WGUs PR firm proactively identifies pitch stories secures coverage and responds to media inquiries.
• Monitors industry news and media trends to surface timely opportunities for commentary brand positioning and thought leadership.
• Builds and maintains relationships with key industry and education journalists influencers and media platforms.
• Oversees creation of original written and visual content for newsletters social media and digital storytellingincluding Instagram-style videos slides and visual briefings.
• Collaborates with internal partners and content creators to maintain and update web content related to school initiatives.
• Sources relevant internal and external data to support storytelling enhance credibility and reinforce thought leadership themes.
• Serves as the strategic communications liaison between the school team and other university departments to ensure message consistency visibility and collaboration.
• Leads the development and execution of a comprehensive strategic communication plan for the School of Education operations aligned with university priorities and milestones.
• Partners with People & Talent Internal Comms and school leadership to support employee engagement and recognition efforts within the school.
• Partners with the Conferences & Events team to secure and maximize speaking opportunities for school leaders at industry summits and panels.
• Tracks communications impact and engagement metrics to inform ongoing strategy and content optimization.
• Advises leadership on message framing audience targeting and brand positioning in alignment with university-wide communications goals.

Qualifications

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills
• Understanding of higher education environment
• Demonstrated skill and ability with social media and communication tools including LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Microsoft Office and Adobe products
• Familiarity with media relations practices
• Ability to conceptualize projects and manage multiple priorities
• Strategic thinker with ability to maintain good judgment in a fast-paced dynamic environment
• Detail oriented organized and able to meet deadlines
• Display a competent and confident professional demeanor
• Works well in a team environment
• Ability to manage shifting priorities in a dynamic environment
• Collaborative yet self-directed committed to high standards and motivated by continuous improvement and measurable outcomes

Competencies

Ability to work with stakeholders across an organization to collaboratively achieve objectives
Ability to collect and connect pertinent information
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Ability to identify issues assess impact and determine appropriate communication strategy

Bachelors degree in journalism communication marketing public relations or related field

Minimum five years of experience in media public relations marketing or communications within a higher education or School of Education environment

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working as a media reporter or public relations practitioner

Experience in lieu of education

Equivalent relevant experience performing the essential functions of this job may substitute for education degree requirements. Generally equivalent relevant experience is defined as 1 year of experience for 1 year of education and is the discretion of the hiring manager.

Physical Qualifications:

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Travel Requirements:

Up to 25%

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Position & Application Details

How to Apply: If interested an application will need to be submitted online. Internal WGU employees will need to apply through the internal job board in Workday.

Additional Information

Disclaimer: The job posting highlights the most critical responsibilities and requirements of the job. Its not all-inclusive.

Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities who require assistance or accommodation during the application or interview process should contact our Talent Acquisition team at

Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic as required by law.