Communications Director, Four Diamonds

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Communications Director, Four Diamonds to manage the Four Diamonds brand and communications, in order to raise awareness, grow support for multi-million-dollar fundraising programs and tell the compelling story of how those funds are used to improve and transform health at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. The successful candidate will be a dynamic strategic thinker who can effectively communicate Four Diamonds’ mission, be team-focused and thrive on growth and change.

Specifically, the Communications Director will:

• Establish and oversee strategic multi-year communications and marketing plan to support the overall strategic growth goals of Four Diamonds.
• Oversee the delivery of the Four Diamonds brand to internal and external audiences, reaching various target audiences and delivering consistent brand messaging.
• Lead cross-functional teams to create and maintain audience-driven print and electronic marketing strategy and tactics encompassing donor communication, multi-media/print collateral, website management, search engine marketing, online sponsorship, marketing landing pages, and other strategic print/electronic initiatives and new media tactics. 
• Proactively oversee the creation and implementation of data-driven marketing strategy and manage the planning and oversight of print and online marketing to include speeches, talking points, presentations, targeted email outreach, videos, social media (organic and paid content), print and digital advertising, one-sheeters, website(s), apps and blog content.
• Manage the relationship of the public relations agency of record for Four Diamonds and Penn State THON, and coordinate media relations and the development of materials for local, regional and national media outlets.
• Build annual marketing and communications budget and monitor budget expenditure
• Work with Penn State Health’s Marketing Office, Penn State University Strategic Communications, Penn State Health Children’s Hospital and Penn State College of Medicine on integrated marketing, cause marketing, and media relations efforts to raise awareness of Four Diamonds and childhood cancer.
• Manage relationships with marketing vendors, University partners and members of Four Diamonds’ care team to tell the story of Four Diamonds’ mission and impact.
• Monitor marketing effectiveness and evaluate industry trends; consistently track key performance indicators to inform strategy.  When appropriate, commission market research and institutional data analysis to inform marketing strategy and tactical development 
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to assess needs and provide ongoing marketing and communications support for campaigns/events; assign and review work of supervised staff.
• Recruit, interview, train and supervise staff.  

Typical Requirements

​This position typically requires a Bachelor’s degree or higher plus 6 years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.  The successful candidate will also have:

• Proven track record in the strategic use of a variety of written, visual and oral communication tools and methods, including social media and content marketing.
• A results-oriented style with high attention to detail, the ability to multi-task, project manage and meet deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced team environment.
• Demonstrated awareness of and adaptive actions to emerging trends within development and non-profit fundraising; ensuring that organizational practices remain current and effective.
• The ability and willingness to travel locally and to work with individuals at a variety of levels within and outside the organization.

• A positive and innovative approach that upholds the mission and core values of Four Diamonds and Penn State University.
• The ability to manage the work of professional staff and mentor student leaders.
• He/she must demonstrate the highest integrity and a genuine appreciation in working with diverse audiences.
• Demonstration of empathy and compassion in sensitive storytelling.
• Technical knowledge of Microsoft products; Google Analytics; Adobe design resources; WordPress, Canva and video creation platforms; social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team.
• A commitment to professional development, learning and being mentored.

The following background checks must be successfully completed for this position: 

In addition to the successful completion of standard background checks, the following clearances must be successfully completed for this position: 

• Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check 
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History 
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Criminal Background Check 

Location

This position supports The Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR) at Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Division of Development and Alumni Relations is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusive excellence that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusive excellence as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission. 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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