Communication Specialist

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The North Carolina Area Health Education Centers (NC AHEC) Program began in 1972 to address national and state concerns with the supply, distribution, and retention of health care professionals. In 1974, the State of North Carolina's General Assembly supported a plan to create a statewide network. Today, thanks to federal and state legislative support, NC AHEC consists of the NC AHEC Program Office, a network of nine regional AHECs, and the Duke AHEC program.

NC AHEC's mission is to provide and support educational activities and services with a focus on primary care in rural communities and those with less access to resources to recruit, train, and retain the workforce needed to create a healthy North Carolina. We envision a state where every North Carolinian is healthy and supported by an appropriate and well-trained health workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Flexible work arrangements, including virtual/hybrid work locations, are an integral part of the School of Medicine's Working Forward initiative. As such, this position's work location is designated as hybrid. Please note that the designated work location is subject to change based on the unit's business needs.

The Communications Specialist develops, implements, and manages statewide communications strategies for the Program Office and liaises with the Communications staff of the nine regions to provide a unified and comprehensive communication strategy. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a broad understanding of brand reputation, messaging strategies, executive communications, crisis management, internal communications, media relations, strategic planning, analytics, project management, client relations, and agency management.

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

- Proven experience in internal communications, media relations, etc.
- Deep understanding of communications and media trends, principles, strategies, and tactics, with expertise in innovative messaging strategies to deploy an effective omni-channel approach.
- Experience in collaborating to strategically manage crisis situations by anticipating, preventing, and responding to media issues and crises and turning them to the benefit of the organization.
- Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, analyze market trends, and draw actionable insights.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and work with stakeholders at all levels.
- Proven ability to execute, meet deadlines, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

- While experience in web design and content production is valued, we prefer candidates who possess familiarity with advanced topics such as HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript, ASP, or Perl.
- Additionally, a foundational knowledge of Photoshop would be considered advantageous.
- Familiarity with advanced WordPress functionalities and additional experience in related technologies would be advantageous.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.