Job Description

The Food and Agricultural Education Information System (FAEIS) and the Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education (ALCE) seek a Communications and Marketing Manager to lead and implement marketing and communications activities in support of the vision and strategic direction of the FAEIS program and ALCE department. This position is responsible for planning, executing, and implementing a comprehensive, multi-year communications and marketing strategy that aligns with the College of Agriculture and Life Science and university-wide communications, marketing, and branding initiatives. The Communications and Marketing Manager is responsible for telling the story of both units to a local, state, and international audience by writing articles and contributing to the VT news, social media, websites, CALS and VT publications, and other outlets. Additionally, this position will lead public relations and marketing efforts to promote programs, facilities, services, and events.

The position will include managing the website and social media platforms for both FAEIS and ALCE. Responsibilities will consist of updating and enhancing material routinely, overseeing the management, organization, and structure of the public content across all media, and advancing the programs' presence through a multimedia effort. This position also supports the development of digital and print materials for on and off campus programs and initiatives and ensures compliance with college and university brand standards involving communications, marketing, and public activities.

This position will work collaboratively with colleagues from FAEIS, ALCE, and the college's communication and marketing department to ensure the position is supported, resourced, and aligned. The Communications and Marketing Manager will work with leadership to identify the key target audiences to develop and execute tailored communication and market plans that result in high and positive impact.

The position is eligible for a hybrid work agreement and the incumbent must be in commutable distance to Blacksburg, VA with a weekly on-campus presence. The position is expected to attend/cover some events outside of normal business hours.

Required Qualifications

* Master's degree in communications, agricultural communications, marketing, or a similar field or a bachelor's degree with substantial and relevant experience.
* Skill in developing and implementing strategic communication plans.
* Demonstrated experience as a professional in the communications field, including evidence of impeccable writing and editing, presentation skills as well as an understanding of effective graphic design and branding principals
* Demonstrate strong computer skills and understanding of web development tools.
* Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal, time management, and organizational skills.
* Experience providing high-level administrative support and customer service in a professional office environment.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office software, Adobe, and web development tools, including content management systems

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience in fields of Public Relations and Communications that includes responsibilities such as developing and executing a marketing plan, creating a departmental/business image, and oversight of promotional publication creation.
* Relevant experience related to agriculture, natural resources and/or high education

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

55,000-65,000

Review Date

01/21/2024 (open until filled)

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight , a , a college, , and . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous and . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.