Senior Associate Director of Communications - Princeton University

Princeton University’s Office of the Dean for Research (ODFR) is seeking a Senior Associate Director of Communications to lead communications operations, support the evolving needs of our world-class research community, and enhance ODFR’s impact on campus. The ODFR prides itself on being a service-driven organization with a culture of constant improvement. In keeping with that culture, the Senior Associate Director’s mission is to provide service-oriented, plain-language information that makes it easier for researchers and administrative staff to find information and do their work and for external audiences to understand and appreciate the impact of Princeton’s research enterprise.

This individual will work closely with senior leadership, the Office of Innovation Communications team, and other University partners to develop strategies and execute communications campaigns that align with organizational goals. We are looking for someone who is excited to propose strategies and products that fulfill the business goals of senior leadership within ODFR, as a collaborator and creative partner. This communications professional will work together with the Office of Communications, the Office of Government Affairs, and various administrative and academic units at the University.

The Senior Associate Director of Communications reports to the Senior Associate Dean for Research. This position is full-time, in-person or hybrid (1 day per week remote), and requires some weekend and evening hours.

Leadership and Strategy:
• Lead the communications strategy and management of communications campaigns for ODFR, ensuring the research community has easy access to policies, memos, research tools, and other resources.
• Partner with ODFR leadership team and staff to develop proactive, on-brand communications that feature services, self-serve information, and compliance requirements.
• Liaise with the Offices of Communications, Government Affairs, State Affairs, Advancement, and others in the development of materials for external audiences, ensuring that ODFR communications align with University standards and guidelines.
• Act as the ODFR digital content strategist, leveraging analytics to optimize communication efforts.
• Supervise staff, interns, and internal and external service providers in the production of websites, newsletters, reports, and other materials.
• Take a leadership role for campus events, such as leading the Princeton Research Day communications and marketing team: recruit and oversee campus communicators who collectively produce promotional materials, and website and social media campaigns to drive applications and attendance.

Communications Production and Management:
• Create compelling communications and outreach materials for the Dean and Senior Associate Dean, serving as a writer, editor, facilitator, and advocate for clear, consistent messaging. Develop internal and external communications based on a strong understanding of research administration, audience, relevant metrics, and institutional priorities.
• Produce and actively manage various written and visual communications materials, including announcements, memos, annual reports, presentations, websites, flyers, e-newsletters, talking points, briefings, and marketing materials.
• Oversee an annual communications calendar, maintain centralized templates, style guides, and design assets, and manage ODFR visual identity materials.
• Develop project plans, obtain quotes, establish scope of work and deliverables, manage budgets, and coordinate with internal and external vendors for photography, design, and production needs.
• Monitor website analytics and social media performance, making data-driven improvements to communications strategies.

Education and Awareness:
• Partner with ODFR subject matter leads to develop effective communications strategies, enhance understanding within the research and administration communities, and proactively manage communications in areas with inherent compliance or reputational risk (e.g., animal research, research security). Enhance overall coordination within Princeton through skillful communications, emphasizing best practices and audience sensitivity.
• Provide guidance to ODFR staff on internally developed training programs and communication techniques to foster successful research administration services and compliance programs.

Essential Qualifications:

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of developing and executing strategic communications plans with measurable results.
• Exceptional writing skills in clear, creative, and high-impact communications, along with the ability to coach others.
• Understanding of web content strategy, accessibility standards, and emerging digital trends.
• Proficiency with at least one content management system (e.g., Drupal, WordPress), digital marketing tools (e.g., Constant Contact, Mailchimp), shared workspace tools (e.g., Google Drive, Teams, SharePoint), and social media platforms.
• Excellent project management skills, adaptability, and the ability to work independently while knowing when to seek guidance.
• Experience managing confidential information with sound judgment and decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in higher education communications.
• Experience managing staff or service providers.
• Familiarity with performance measurement, analytics, and managing creative resources.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS