Executive Director, Strategic Communications Are you a thoughtful communicator with a passion for storytelling that makes an impact? UCF is seeking an Executive Director of Strategic Communications to lead a high‑performing team responsible for developing and delivering integrated communications that support our leaders and strategic priorities.

Reporting to the Chief Communications Officer, this position will partner closely with university leadership to shape messaging for presidential communications, institutional initiatives, and issues of strategic importance. This role oversees executive speech writing, strategic storytelling, and executive‑level creative services, ensuring all communications are compelling, cohesive, and aligned with the university’s voice, values, and goals.

Classification Title Director, Communications III

Responsibilities

Lead strategic and executive communications support: speeches, talking points, social media posts, presentations, correspondence, websites, and other touchpoints.

Oversee strategic communications planning and content development for major institutional priorities and university initiatives. Ensure messaging is aligned with mission, brand, and strategic plan and tailored to individual leader vision.

Collaborate with leaders, communicators, and stakeholders to identify, shape, and promote stories that elevate UCF’s reputation.

Champion message discipline and alignment: develop messaging frameworks, strategic toolkits, and editorial guidance; lead cross‑functional coordination.

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree and 10+ years of relevant experience, including 5+ years of leadership experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219(6).

Preferred Qualifications

Leadership experience in strategic communications, executive communications, or related fields within higher education, government, industry, or other large complex organization.

Exceptional writing and editing ability, with demonstrated success in developing messaging strategies that support executive priorities, brand identity, and institutional goals.

Proven ability to partner with senior leadership and cross‑functional teams to align communication strategies across multiple audiences.

Experience managing high‑performing teams of writers, designers, and communication professionals, fostering creativity, collaboration, accountability.

Strategic judgment in navigating sensitive, high‑visibility, timely issues that impact institutional reputation.

Special Instructions to Applicants This position will work occasional evenings and weekends as university needs arise. Applicant must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer, as sponsorship is not available for this position.

Work Schedule Monday‑Friday; 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Occasional evenings and weekends.

EEO & Disability UCF is a smoke‑free campus and an E‑Verify employer. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 407‑823‑1336 or email onac@ucf.edu. For general application or posting questions, please email talent@ucf.edu.

#J-18808-Ljbffr