• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Building: Avery Hall
• Salary Range: $75,000 $100,000

Position Summary

Reporting to the Associate Dean of Admissions and Outreach at the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP), the Director of Communications is responsible for strategic communications of GSAPP encompassing the School’s identity, website and online presence, media and press relations, promotional tools, and marketing. The Director works with the School’s Dean and the Associate Dean to develop and execute a communications plan for GSAPP’s mission, academic programs and research, admissions and recruiting, and other events and activities based on the Dean’s vision that is timely, relevant, and engaging, and that serves internal constituents and promotes wider recognition among prospective students and other external national and international audiences.

Responsibilities

• The Director of Communications works with the School’s Dean and the Associate Dean of Admissions and Outreach to develop and execute a communications plan for GSAPP’s mission, academic programs and research, admissions and recruiting, and other events and activities based on the Dean’s vision that is timely, relevant, and engaging, and that serves internal constituents and promotes wider recognition among prospective students and other external national and international audiences. Advises the Dean and senior leadership on communications matters and trends and identifies new opportunities for shaping and delivering GSAPP messaging. (20%)

• The Director of Communications works to ensure the consistent identity of the School by overseeing the visual materials and written communications for internal and external audiences. Writes texts on behalf of the Dean and for School-wide messaging and ensures a consistent and clear editorial voice. Is responsible for website content and oversees the production of print and digital promotional tools including school brochures and admissions materials, invitations, posters, media placements, among others.

  Works with Columbia’s General Counsel, Purchasing Office, and Communications Office to obtain approvals as needed on the use of GSAPP and Columbia’s brand for print or online materials. Works with external vendors and manages production of design, photography, website development, printing, and other services as needed. (35%)

• The Director of Communications is responsible for media relations and engages journalists, publications, media outlets, and other external contacts to generate content and features about the GSAPP community including faculty, alumni, students, and guest speakers. Manages and continually develops outreach lists and maintains relations with media and strategic external contacts. Fulfills the School’s public relations needs on behalf of the Dean, acting as GSAPP’s contact point for external media, ensuring GSAPP presence within Columbia’s channels, and consulting and working with the University’s Central Communications Office. Represents the Dean and GSAPP at public events as needed and manages media visits at GSAPP. (35%)

• The Director of Communications will identify opportunities to utilize new forms of information technology for communications outreach and will work with the School’s IT team to manage the technical aspects of digitally disseminating communications. (5%) 

• Other duties as assigned/requested. (5%)

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required.  4-6 years of related experience in architecture or a related field is required. 

Must have experience in communications and media relations. Excellent written and oral communication skills, knowledge of online and social media platforms, experience with print design and production, and familiarity with media outlets are required.

Must have knowledge of and interest in contemporary design culture. Excellent writing, editing, and project management experience. Must be adept at working both independently and in collaboration and be able to think strategically. Must have demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and work well under pressure. Must be supple, fast, and accurate writer and have excellent telephone, public interaction, and interpersonal skills. Must have the ability to detect emerging communication trends and make recommendations for innovative change. Must have knowledge of current technology and online communication platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced degree in Architecture or the related professions desirable.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.