Communications Director

About the Role

The Communications Director serves on the Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant leadership team, providing strategic direction for the unit’s communications program and contributing to organizational planning and decision-making. Reporting directly to the Director, this position oversees all aspects of communications operations, including the development and implementation of internal and external communication strategies, policies, processes and priorities that enhance the visibility and impact of the unit’s research, education and extension programs.

Responsibilities

• Direct the operations of the communications department, ensuring alignment with the strategic goals of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant; Serve as a member of the unit’s leadership team and support the director in overall management and direction; Establish and maintain relationships with external partners to enhance communication strategies and outreach efforts, serving as a liaison between upper management, staff and stakeholders; Supervise communications staff and interns specializing in graphic design, digital content development, marketing, illustration and videography.
• Develop and implement internal and external communication strategies, guidance, and processes. Provide high-level direction to faculty and staff producing print and digital materials for research, education, and extension projects. Oversee messaging strategy, brand positioning, and quality control across all unit publications and digital assets.
• Oversee digital communications strategy, managing content creation, quality, and maintenance for the unit’s website, social media platforms, and newsletters. Lead media relations efforts, engaging with reporters, pitching stories, and elevating organizational visibility. Direct multimedia production and write feature stories and press releases to support high-impact outreach.
• Assist with internal and external reporting requirements, including NOAA-mandated documentation, monthly highlights, and annual impacts reporting. Ensures accuracy, compliance, and transparent communication of organizational accomplishments to federal, university and public stakeholders.
• Promotes public programs, workshops, conferences, and training events hosted by the unit. Develops full promotional strategies, audience-specific messaging, and engagement methods to drive participation and enhance the visibility and impact of educational programming.
• Participate in the National Sea Grant Communications Network and the PSO Communicators Network, supporting national office and state-wide initiatives. Represent the unit in external affairs initiatives, fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders and organizations.
• Provide communications leadership and support for fundraising initiatives, including donor campaigns, promotional materials, reporting on donor impact, and administration of materials for development. Strengthen stakeholder engagement and donor communication strategies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 8 years of professional experience.
• Five (5) or more years of related professional experience.
• Experience working in a complex organizational environment.
• Supervisory or team leadership experience.

Skills

• Ability to develop strategies and resources to strengthen and direct the operations of a communication program.
• Strong project management skills having the ability to work independently yet collaboratively within the department as well as external stakeholders and partners.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated strength in copywriting, editing, and strategic message development.
• Proven ability to communicate technical information to a lay audience.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage priorities, balance competing demands, and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments.
• Experience with digital communications platforms, content management systems, social media, multimedia production, photography and graphic design.
• Experience supervising and managing employees.
• Familiarity with environmental, coastal or marine science issues.

Physical Demands: Some events may be held outside in coastal harsh weather; extensive sitting at computer work required.

Driving: This position requires a valid driver’s license.