Associate Director of Issues Management

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The Office of University Communications is responsible for the strategic management of the University's overall public relations and reputation management activities. The department provides leadership, counsel and services to over 200 communicators across campus and works with those communicators to ensure a unified campus-wide communications strategy. Areas within University Communications include: Content Development, Executive Communications, Media Relations, Social Media, Visual Production, Issues Management, Marketing and the UNC Visitors Center.

UNC-Chapel Hill's University Communications department is seeking an Associate Director of Issues Management for its high-volume Media Relations team. Individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment that requires strategic thinking, long-range planning, and thorough research are ideal for this role. Experience working with news-focused teams and managing thoughtful processes for organizing a high volume of information is needed, as well as a passion for strategic communications, media relations and high-quality writing. Reporting to the Senior Director of Media Relations, the Associate Director of Issues Management helps track and respond to issues in higher education and coordinates senior-level initiatives for both the proactive and reactive communications needs for the nation's first public university. This role works with colleagues in the Office of University Communications, University leaders and communications professionals across campus in a busy office that handles many news stories of national importance. The Associate Director proactively identifies and analyzes reputational issues facing the University whether they are national, political, faculty related, employee/alumni related, or systemwide. They also keep abreast of issues and important trends that affect the University, its students and faculty, and higher education in general. The Associate Director also engages in issues management and makes recommendations on media strategies and responses. An ideal candidate needs strong leadership ability in developing short-and long-term strategies for dealing with rising and sensitive issues, as well as during a crisis. Confidentiality and discretion are essential. In addition, they should be familiar with and contribute to public safety communications.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity or comparable background in independent academic or instructional activities, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. This experience may be related to the direction/oversight of programs that focus the academic and research resources of a higher education institution towards community or regional issues.

The Associate Director of Issues Management must have the ability to stay current with changing priorities and developments within the department and across the University. Must have thorough knowledge of and hands-on experience in media relations and communication of complex issues. Strong written and oral communications skills are essential. The ability to handle difficult situations and those that fall outside established procedures and guidelines. Demonstrated ease and efficiency in meeting the communications needs of senior executives. Demonstrated ability to address issues and crises with collegiality and poise.

Experience working in public relations for higher education, an agency, government or comparable setting. Experience with writing and journalism. Experience creating and executing media campaigns preferred.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.