Communications Director

About the Frist Center for Autism & Innovation

The Frist Center for Autism & Innovation at Vanderbilt University is dedicated to creating opportunities for autistic individuals and other neurodivergent people to thrive in higher education employment and society. Through research education and community engagement we work to transform understanding of neurodiversity and create inclusive pathways to success.

Position Summary:

The Communications Director will lead all external communications strategy and execution for the Frist Center for Autism & Innovation. This role requires an exceptional communicator with deep expertise in neurodiversity and a commitment to authentic respectful representation of autistic and neurodivergent communities. The Director will develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies across multiple platforms while ensuring all content reflects best practices in neurodiversity-affirming communication.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Communications Leadership

Develop and execute a comprehensive external communications strategy that advances the Centers mission and enhances its national visibility

Oversee all aspects of the Centers public-facing communications including messaging branding and tone across all platforms

Serve as primary liaison with Vanderbilt University Communications and Marketing teams

Monitor and assess communication effectiveness using metrics and analytics to inform strategy refinement Content Development and Management

Create compelling accessible content for diverse audiences including researchers educators employers policymakers neurodivergent individuals and families

Oversee website content ensuring accessibility accuracy and alignment with neurodiversity-affirming principles

Develop print materials including newsletters annual reports brochures and promotional materials

Write and edit press releases media advisories blog posts and other communication materials Digital and Social Media Strategy

Lead social media strategy and content creation across multiple platforms

Engage with online communities in ways that are authentic responsive and community centered

Develop multimedia content including video podcasts and interactive web features

Stay current with emerging digital communication trends and platforms

Media Relations and Outreach:

Serve as primary media contact and spokesperson for the Center

Cultivate relationships with journalists bloggers and media outlets

Coordinate media interviews and prepare talking points for Center leadership and researchers

Identify and pursue media opportunities to showcase Center initiatives and research Community Engagement

Collaborate with neurodivergent community members and advocates to ensure authentic representation

Develop communication materials that are accessible and inclusive of diverse communication styles and preferences

Build relationships with partner organizations and stakeholders

Coordinate communication aspects of public events conferences and community programs Team Collaboration

Work closely with Center leadership faculty researchers and staff to identify and communicate key messages

Collaborate with development staff on fundraising communications

Supervise student workers interns or other communications staff as needed

Participate in strategic planning and contribute to organizational goals

Required Qualifications:

PhD in a STEM field

Minimum 5 years of experience in communications public relations or related experience

Extensive documented experience working with and/or within autistic and neurodivergent communities

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to adapt messaging for diverse audiences

Strong understanding of neurodiversity-affirming language and communication practices

Proven experience developing and implementing multi-platform communication strategies

Proficiency with content management systems social media platforms and digital communication tools

Experience with Adobe Creative Suite or similar design software

Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

Commitment to accessibility inclusion and authentic community engagement

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in higher education or research institution communications

Background in autism research disability studies or related academic field

Experience with video production podcasting or multimedia content creation

Knowledge of web accessibility standards (WCAG) and universal design principles

Experience managing crisis communications or sensitive topics

Familiarity with SEO Google Analytics and social media analytics tools

Grant writing or fundraising communications experience Competencies

Ability to interact and engage with neurodiverse audiences

Ability to communicate complex research and concepts in accessible engaging ways

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships

Creative problem-solving and innovative thinking

Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic environment

Self-directed with strong initiative and follow-through