Agency Director (Higher Education / Communications Agency)

Gainesville, FL (On-Site) | Full-Time About the RoleA client-serving communications agency based within the College of Journalism and Communications at a major public research university is seeking its next director. The agency is a Gen Z-focused strategic communications firm where approximately 120 students work alongside professionals to create real-world campaigns across strategy, creative, development, research, production, and media coordination.The director will lead the administrative management team responsible for business development, operations, and client services while mentoring, guiding, and developing operational and student staff. The role maximizes the immersive learning experience, preparing students for careers in a rapidly changing communication marketplace through hands-on, applied, and collaborative learning.This is a 12-month, non-tenure-track Associate-In faculty position beginning in the Spring 2027 term. The director will teach 2-3 agency-related courses per term, mentor and advise undergraduate students, participate in scholarly and professional organizations, and contribute to shared governance. Review of applications begins October 16, 2026, and continues until the position is filled. Applications close October 30, 2026.What the Role CoversProviding strategic leadership for the university communications agency model that integrates professional practice, teaching, mentoring, and student developmentContributing to the undergraduate program by supporting curriculum development, course delivery, advising, and student success initiativesBalancing the academic, operational, and professional dimensions of the agency, including curriculum alignment, financial sustainability, and experiential learning opportunitiesBuilding and maintaining relationships with clients, alumni, industry professionals, faculty, and campus partners to expand student opportunitiesMentoring students as emerging professionals through project-based work, portfolio development, client engagement, teamwork, and career preparationCollaborating with the college’s academic departments and professional graduate programTeaching 2-3 agency-related courses per termSupporting an inclusive learning environment that prepares students to work across advertising, public relations, strategic communication, and related professional fieldsQualificationsBachelor’s degree in media, advertising, public relations, communications, or a related field10 years of experience in communications agency operations, creative, or client services3 years in a management leadership positionWorking knowledge of core communications disciplines including media relations, content creation, social media, campaign strategy, and evaluationDemonstrated ability to mentor, coach, teach, or supervise early-career professionals, interns, or studentsPreferredMaster’s degree in a related field15 years of agency experience and 5 years in management leadershipPrior experience in client management, business development and retention, or creative workDemonstrated experience managing client relationships, campaigns, or projects from proposal through execution and evaluationExperience managing budgets, billing processes, and/or financial recordsExperience in higher education settings including teaching, curriculum development, and university procurement/finance processesProfessional industry certification or affiliation (4As, APR, AAF, AMA, PRSA, etc.)Experience with new business development including client prospecting, pitching, proposal writing, and contract negotiationAdditional DetailsSalary is commensurate with education and experience. The university offers a comprehensive benefits package. This is an in-person position based in Gainesville, FL. Applicants should submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, current CV or resume, teaching portfolio if applicable, and contact details for three references.To ApplyVisit Mediabistro for full details and application instructions.