Assistant Director, University Communications

Position Summary

Reporting to the Associate Vice President of University Communications , Fordham’s Assistant Director of University Communications supports the execution of a comprehensive reputation management strategy integrating communications, media/PR, thought leadership and issues management to shape and protect the University’s reputation, and advance its mission and strategic priorities.

The position might require inter-campus travel and occasional after-hours and weekend work for University events and time-sensitive communication needs.

Essential Functions

Monitors public perception of the University and the higher education industry to identify potential reputational risks and opportunities; contribute to communications initiatives to address them.

Develops compelling messaging and storytelling to secure visibility for the University and its leadership; collaborate with social media and digital platform colleagues to amplify and media relations colleagues to secure favorable media coverage.

Identifies, secures and facilitates strategic thought leadership opportunities for members of the University leadership team, including speaking events, contributed articles and podcasts.

Helps shape and maintain the University’s and its administrative leadership’s online presence.

Writes communications materials including talking points, executive briefing documents, byline articles and op-eds, and University-wide messages.

Supports internal and external communications during crises, to ensure timely, accurate, and consistent messaging to all stakeholders.

Maintains the University’s crisis communications and issues management plan, ensuring its readiness when needed.

Partners with broader University Marketing and Communications colleagues to develop and execute 360 communications programs.

Essential Functions Note This list is not intended to be an exhaustive list.

Management Responsibilities Not responsible for supervision or oversight of others.

Additional Functions

Works in conjunction with outside PR agency as needed

Required Qualifications: Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or other related field.

Minimum of 3 years of communications experience, including executive communications and issues management.

Required Qualifications: Knowledge and Skills

Exceptional professional writing skills.

Strong knowledge of national and local issues affecting the higher education industry.

Basic knowledge of and commitment to the values underpinning Jesuit education.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Starting Salary $85,000

Maximum Starting Salary $95,000

Qualifications

Note Salary is commensurate with qualifications, experience, and skills.

Is this a Union position? No

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number A1089P

Number of Vacancies 1

Start Date ASAP

Posting Date 07/01/2026

Special Instructions

EEO Statement

Fordham University is committed to excellence and welcomes candidates of all backgrounds.

Fordham University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.