DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY

The University of California (UC) is a world leader in education and research, producing Nobel and Pulitzer Prize recipients. Working at the UC Office of the President means contributing to a vibrant, diverse community and supporting the university's mission through impactful work locally, in government centers, and systemwide.

About the Department

The Digital and Creative Strategy department builds public understanding and support for the University of California and its mission through innovative digital, print, and physical products. The team stewards the UC brand, ensures positive user experiences, and cultivates a culture of authenticity, inspiration, and value.

Responsibilities

• Management and digital strategy (50%):
  • Guide digital product ideation, development, and execution, balancing business, user, accessibility, branding, design, content, and technology needs.
  • Create cohesive, best-in-class digital experiences through cross-functional collaboration.
  • Ensure design consistency and adherence to brand guidelines across all digital products.
  • Establish and guide strategy for UCOP’s flagship properties, program sites, and applications.
  • Build consensus for strategic and tactical decisions through collaboration with colleagues, partners, and vendors.
  • Use UX methodologies to drive iterative product improvement and decision-making.
  • Manage, mentor, and train team members, ensuring professional development and engagement.
  • Set goals aligned with departmental priorities and track progress.
  • Stay updated on emerging UX, technology, and content strategy trends to advance department-wide best practices.
• Consultation and collaboration (25%):
  • Act as the primary liaison between ER&C, ITS, and external vendors for seamless coordination.
  • Partner with leadership and cross-functional teams to advise on digital strategies supporting UC’s priorities.
  • Foster relationships with key stakeholders across UCOP and the UC system to drive collaboration and alignment.
• Project management (25%):
  • Develop project plans, budgets, and timelines for multiple digital projects of varying scope.
  • Ensure high-quality digital products are delivered on time and within budget.
  • Anticipate and address challenges proactively to mitigate risks.

Requirements

• Expertise in end-to-end digital product development, including UX design, content strategy, project planning, and technical execution, with a deep understanding of UX/UI best practices and accessibility standards.
• Strong leadership and team management experience, with clear communication about resources, dependencies, and expectations.
• Proven ability to hire, train, supervise, develop, and coach staff, fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills for engaging stakeholders at all levels.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, able to generate insights and make informed decisions.
• Ability to set and communicate a long-term UX and digital strategy aligned with institutional priorities.
• Strong project and deadline management skills.
• Comfort in a rapid-response environment, deploying digital solutions quickly and effectively.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 8+ years of experience leading large web projects in content strategy and/or user experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Preferred: Familiarity with the University of California system, its mission, goals, and structure.
• Preferred: Understanding of current public higher education issues and challenges in the U.S.

Pay

Salary range: $150,000 – $170,000, commensurate with experience.

Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, visit: Benefits of Belonging.