Assistant Dean of Strategy and Communications at Louisiana State University

Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated). If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through “My Draft Applications” located on your Candidate Home page. Job Posting Title: Assistant Dean of Strategy and Communications Position Type: Professional / Unclassified Department: LSUAM College of Engineering (Vicki Colvin (00089820)) Work Location: 2214G Patrick F. Taylor Hall Pay Grade: Professional Job Description: This role ensures alignment with the College's strategic direction while addressing wide-ranging audiences with available resources. The Assistant Dean identifies, manages, and reduces risks, provides the Dean with executive communications support, assists College deans and department chairs through coaching and strategic conversations, and works closely with LSU communication leaders to meet the university’s public affairs goals. The Assistant Dean serves as the primary advisor to College leadership on messaging, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that communications drive progress for the College and LSU. This leader will be both a strategist and advisor and a hands-on contributor who can write and edit a variety of materials, from memos to messaging, communications plans to press pitches. With exceptional judgment and discretion, a pro-active, data-driven approach, and a strong command of communications platforms such as Cision and Meltwater, the Assistant Dean is instrumental in building the reputation of the College and meeting its goals for improving education, research, and service to Louisiana. 30% Strategic Planning and Execution: Establish and drive a multi-channel communications strategy for the College that reflects the priorities of the College’s academic and research leaders and aligns with university strategy. This will include both internal and external audiences and channels. Serve as a key member of the Dean’s administrative team, contributing to college planning and advising leaders on communications. Lead communications projects with significant potential to drive progress toward College goals, including impact reporting, major program announcements, and alumni and donor engagement. Continuously review audiences, messaging, and outreach with an eye toward effectiveness and efficiency. 30% Team Management and Development: Supervise a team of communication professionals, providing tailored support, direction, and mentorship. Model and build a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and excellence and a positive, pro-active, problem-solving mindset. Actively and consistently encourage each team member’s learning and growth, and equip them with the resources they need, in order to meet high performance standards, build morale, and maintain consistency in communications efforts. Review employee performance, oversee professional development, and build and manage a team budget. 20% Collaboration and Partnerships: Work closely with College deans, department heads, faculty, and staff to align communication efforts with institutional priorities and initiatives. Establish strong ties with cross-sector partners inside and outside of the university, including the LSU communications team members, LSU Foundation staff, industry partners, and government agencies to strengthen the College’s expanding public and private partnerships. 10% Support for Leadership: Provide coaching and support to academic leaders and spokespeople to develop clear and concise messaging that aligns with the College's strategy. Develop impactful talking points that convey leadership’s strategic priorities, fostering connection and trust among stakeholders. 10%Support College Leadership: Provide coaching and support to academic leaders and spokespeople to develop clear and concise messaging that aligns with the College's strategy.