The Communications and Digital Marketing Director is responsible for the creation and implementation of a strategic, multi-faceted communications programs to build and strengthen the Data Science Institute’s reputation as a leader in education and research. This position will own and manage the overall vision for digital and traditional communications within the Data Science Institute (DSI); executing strategic marketing tactics for the Academic and Research & Development units while providing oversight of Web content, social media, academic content and other areas. The Communications and Digital Marketing Director oversees a team of communications professionals within the DSI investing in Meharry’s long-term strategic digital first agenda leveraging online properties and digital communications tools to support the business goals of the organization.

• Assist DSI’s Executive Director, Grants and Contracts Director, Enrollment Management Director, Development Director, and Department Chairs in the development of a strategic communications plan to support the mission, goals and objectives for the DSI aligned with the Meharry Medical College Strategic Plan. • Drive, create, and manage strategies that assist with student and faculty recruiting, building brand awareness, and driving patient volume. • Manage communications team of direct reports including Web Developers. • Lead the creation and development of a digital content strategy and roadmap to drive organizational alignment and buy-in from stakeholders. • Secure, coordinate and manage various promotional vendors such as display companies, photographers, videographers, advertisers, printers, etc. ensuring timely delivery of materials, appropriate estimation and invoicing. • Responsible for data, reports, deliverables including Web site analytics, social media analytics and customer service reports. • Effectively execute the tactical plan which may include (and not be limited to) advertising campaigns, social media outreach, online communications, and other tactics. • Serve as a key contributor to the market research process helping to ensure that the promotional tactical plan is aligned with results and recommendations from the market research. • Develop promotions budgets and manage expenses within budget parameters. • When appropriate, facilitate media planning opportunities. • Serve as an in-house writer and editor for communications within the Office of the Executive Director which may include but are not limited to speeches, policy manuals, and business letters. • Direct media relations for the DSI academic and R&D units, including identifying experts and student representatives, writing press releases and pitching R&D and academic news to traditional and digital media outlets. • Serve as lead content writer and Web master for DSI content on the Meharry academic Web site. • Track and monitor customer communications, including but not limited to surveys, and social media interactions. • Identify and assess specific promotional needs of the DSI. • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to solve problems and work independently in a timely fashion • Knowledge of academic medical centers, hospitals or other health-related concerns; higher education; and communications (advertising, public relations, promotions/events and web communications) • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Excellent interpersonal communication skills • Experience with use of Web content management systems • Ability to understand and utilize Search Engine Optimization • Ability to meet budget and deadlines • Strong project management skills to oversee the development and production of multiple projects

Required Experience

• A Master’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Business Administration or related field with 5 or more years of experience in Communications and Marketing. Experience in academic or health care related field preferred.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to solve problems and work independently in a timely fashion • Knowledge of academic medical centers, hospitals or other health-related concerns; higher education; and communications (advertising, public relations, promotions/events and web communications) • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Excellent interpersonal communication skills • Experience with use of Web content management systems • Ability to understand and utilize Search Engine Optimization • Ability to meet budget and deadlines • Strong project management skills to oversee the development and production of multiple projects