THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON
ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROFESSIONAL (NON-TEACHING) JOB DESCRIPTION
TITLE: Vice President for Communications
CODE: 0259
FUNCTION: Serve as chief communications strategist, advancing and managing an
integrated communications program designed to enhance the University's reputation and
increase its prominence and visibility throughout Texas and beyond.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Report to the president of the University. Oversee
Public Affairs, Publications, Marketing, and Video Services departments. Counsel the
president and other senior administrators. Assume responsibility for the institution's
strategic communications. Direct on-going assessment of the university's
communications strategies to ensure a market-based approach. Oversee the university's
crisis communications and issues management. Work with the offices of the President,
Development, Provost, Admissions, Student Affairs and Research to promote
accomplishments in teaching, research and service to enhance public understanding,
recruitment and increase private philanthropy to UTA. Oversee and enhance the
implementation of UT Arlington's brand and strategic communications plan engaging
both internal and external audiences and mediums, including web presence and digital
resources. Provide leadership and oversight for the communications staff and function as
a whole, including managing a budget, personnel administration, unit effectiveness and
procurement authority of the unit. Direct a team of 24 individuals. Design and sustain a
unified, integrated and successful brand identity, positive media image, successful
marketing strategy and effective public communications to advance UT Arlington's
reputation and relationships. Give strategic direction to the news and media relations
functions of the university. Recommend resources needed to carry out the university's
overall internal and external communications mission. Work closely and collaboratively
with all constituencies across the campus to ensure consistency of communications.
Provide enlightened and inspirational leadership for the university's communications
practitioners.
ACCOUNTABILITY
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
REPORTS TO: President
SUPERVISON:
INTERNAL CONTROL: Responsible for the design, execution, and effectiveness of a system
of internal controls which provides reasonable assurance that department operations are effective
and efficient, department assets are safeguarded, department financial information is reliable, and
the department complies with applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Exposure to standard office conditions; Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation;
Work hours may vary; some travel required.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism,
marketing or a related field. 10+ years of extensive experience in communications/public
relations/marketing disciplines in or with complex, decentralized organizations.
Appreciation for academic culture and mission. Excellent written and oral
communication skills; demonstrated ability to think and act strategically in support of the
organization's vision and strategy. A proven track record of success in managing and
directing a comprehensive communications operation. Demonstrated ability to attract,
motivate, guide, develop, and lead a professional team to achieve organizational
objectives. Ability to articulate UT Arlington's mission, vision, needs and aspirations
with clarity, accuracy and enthusiasm. Advanced knowledge of the strategies and best
practices for communications, including sophisticated and creative use of the web and
other forms of digital and emerging communication technology. A strong work ethic,
with a results-oriented philosophy. Collegial, collaborative management style that builds
consensus between individuals and organizations across the campus.
Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as
appropriate.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced degree.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Specific job requirements or physical location of position allocated to this classification render
the position security sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of Texas Education Code
§51.215.
Date: 05/2007