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Director of Executive Communications

Posting Details

Come and join the Bearkat community!

Named after Texas' legendary hero, General Sam Houston, the university boasts a rich historical legacy that resonates with the spirit of Texas, which provides a balance between a peaceful, natural setting and proximity to urban amenities. With a student population of over 21,000, SHSU offers a vibrant and dynamic community. SHSU has a small town feel with large scale opportunities. Located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas and just an hour drive north of Houston, Huntsville provides area residents with a sense of community and belonging.

SHSU offers compelling options for individuals seeking a fulfilling and impactful career including a superior benefit package, competitive salaries and a flexible work environment fostering work/life balance. SHSU offers programs that support a healthy work-life balance, contributing to employee well-being and job satisfaction, as well as, professional development opportunities with our educational assistance and dependent assistance programs.

Posting Information

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.

Requisition 202500007ES
Title Director of Executive Communications
FLSA status Exempt
Hiring Salary
Commensurate with education and experience.
Department Integrated Marketing Communications
Division Integrated Marketing Communications
Open Date 01/15/2025
Open Until Filled Yes
Educational and Experience Requirement
Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, Public Relations, English, or a related field. Five years of experience in communications, public relations, the media, or a related field. Additional education may be considered in lieu of experience.
Nature & Purpose of Position
Supports the President and executive team by facilitating effective communication both internally and externally. Crafts, coordinates, and delivers strategic messages on behalf of administration to ensure consistent and impactful communication across various channels. Responsible for gathering information, disseminating news releases and publicity about the University, and writing for the Office of the President.
Primary Responsibilities
Collaborates with executives to develop and refine key messages, speeches, presentations, and other communication materials. Researches and gathers relevant information to support the creation of accurate and compelling content. Ensures that communication materials align with the university’s messaging and branding guidelines. Writes speeches and talking points for President and other executives, tailoring the content to suit different audiences and occasions. Assists in drafting external communication materials such as press releases, articles, and social media posts. Collaborates with the IMC team to coordinate media interactions, interviews, and statements for President. Monitors media coverage and industry trends to provide relevant insights and recommendations. Works closely with IMC to ensure consistent messaging and alignment. Acts as a liaison between executives and various teams to gather information and ensure accurate representation in communications. Contributes to developing crisis communication strategies and materials to address sensitive issues effectively. Performs other duties as assigned.
Other Specifications
Proven experience in speechwriting, content creation, and executive communication support. Excellent writing and editing skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy. Strong understanding of branding, messaging, and communication best practices. Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with executives and cross-functional teams. Knowledge of media relations and crisis communication strategies. Familiarity with digital communication tools and platforms. High level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality.

Up to 40% of this position, over the fiscal year during off-peak periods, may be performed remotely as determined by the supervisor.
Full Time Part Time Full Time
Position Number
Quicklink
EEO Statement

EEO Statement
Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or gender identity or expression. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code § 51.215.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report

Applicant Documents

Required Documents
  1. Resume
  2. Cover Letter
  3. Letter of Recommendation 1
  4. Reference Contact Information
  5. Writing Sample
Optional Documents
  1. Media Presentation
  2. Letter of Recommendation 2
  3. Letter of Recommendation 3
  4. Web Site Sample

Screening Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  1. * Are you willing to work a flexible schedule, which may include evenings and weekends?
    • Yes
    • No
  2. * How did you learn about this position?
    • The Chronicle of Higher Education
    • Diverse Issues in Higher Education
    • HBCU Connect - Historically Black Colleges and Universities
    • HACU - Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities
    • The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education
    • Association for Women in Science
    • TWC - Work in Texas
    • Inside Higher Ed
    • Higher Ed Jobs
    • HERC - Higher Education Recruitment Consortium
    • SHSU Website
    • SHSU Employee
    • SHSU Recruiter
    • Other
  3. If your response to the question above was "SHSU Employee" please indicate employee's name and department.

    (Open Ended Question)

  4. If your response to the question above was "Other" please indicate from what source.

    (Open Ended Question)