Writer
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Full-time
Writing / Editing
Posted on October 7, 2022
Position primary purpose and general responsibilities:
The Writer will contribute to VCU Office of Institutional Equity, Effectiveness and Success (IES) communications efforts by producing content for the office's website, blog, and social media channels, and creating other materials as needed. This position will share editing responsibility with other communications team members and is responsible for contributing to the IES office's public relations and marketing efforts with the goal of continually elevating the profile and perception of the office's initiatives and offerings. This position reports to the IES Director of Executive Communications.
Minimum hiring standards:
- Superior writing and communication skills, particularly with editing to A.P. Style.
- Proficient in developing and executing social media strategies across a wide variety of platforms.
- Proficient in using social media management tools such as Buffer or Hootsuite.
- Proficient in gathering and reporting social media analytics.
- Exceptional project management and organization skills. Excellent anticipatory skills and initiative.
- Ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to build long-term relationships with internal and external constituents.
- Knowledge of marketing principles.
- Strong ability to provide effective direction in managing workflow.
- Professional demeanor.
- Resourceful and solution-oriented.
- Creative ability and knowledge of the creative process.
- Ability to use project management software such as Monday.com.
- Experience managing social media.
- Must understand various university audiences.
- Bachelor's degree (or higher) preferably in English, mass communications, marketing or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
- Demonstrated experience in a marketing agency or in-house shop preferred.
- Previous experience in higher education.
Writing
- Responsible for developing, implementing, tracking and evaluating copy/content that is clear and original copy.
- Main responsibility is to write content for the IES website, blog, and social media channels, and other materials as needed.
- Connect with key constituents and internal stakeholders to identify stories, conduct interviews, and draft content.
- Work closely with the IES Director of Executive Communications to shape the content of the IES website and draft press releases to promote the school's key initiatives and accomplishments for local and national press outlets.
- Additional duties include creating quality content while abiding by guidelines, such as Associated Press style guidelines, allowable volume, media type, word usage, and social media best practices.
- Serve as an in-house proofreader for printed and web-based materials for the marketing and communications office.
- Additional duties include keeping up to date with new content.
- Work alongside the marketing and communications team to develop and implement a social media plan and strategy.
- Plan and create content (posts, photo essays, live-tweets and Instagram Stories), teaming up with a graphic designer as needed.
- Ensure steady and high-quality content pipeline in line with the IES strategic plan.
- Develop and execute social media plans to support major events and campaigns.
- Manage and monitor multiple channels, ensuring brand visual elements and voice are aligned across all platforms.
- Develop relationships with various communities through social media.
- Track and report metrics on social media and website content using campaign tagging.
- Seek innovative ways to tell stories online.
- Strategize how to raise the profile of IES and build brand awareness.
- Coordinate with University Relations and other VCU entities to share and maximize relevant content.
- Follow all university social media policies and best practices, such as ensuring content meets accessibility requirements and aligns with university branding guidelines.
Position Details:
Department: Office of Institutional Equity, Effectiveness & Success (IES)Employment Type: H1 - HourlyRestricted Status: NoExemption Status: Non-Exempt