Employment Type: Permanent Staff (EHRA NF) Vacancy ID: NF0008857 Salary Range: $78,000-$83,000 Position Summary/Description: UNC -Chapel Hill’s University Communications department is seeking an Associate Director of Issues Management for its high-volume Media Relations team. Individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment that requires strategic thinking, long-range planning, and thorough research are ideal for this role. Experience working with news-focused teams and managing thoughtful processes for organizing a high volume of information is needed, as well as a passion for strategic communications, media relations and high-quality writing. Reporting to the Senior Director of Media Relations, the Associate Director of Issues Management helps track and respond to issues in higher education and coordinates senior-level initiatives for both the proactive and reactive communications needs for the nation’s first public university. This role works with colleagues in the Office of University Communications, University leaders and communications professionals across campus in a busy office that handles many news stories of national importance. The Associate Director proactively identifies and analyzes reputational issues facing the University whether they are national, political, faculty related, employee/alumni related, or systemwide. They also keep abreast of issues and important trends that affect the University, its students and faculty, and higher education in general. The Associate Director also engages in issues management and makes recommendations on media strategies and responses. An ideal candidate needs strong leadership ability in developing short-and long-term strategies for dealing with rising and sensitive issues, as well as during a crisis. Confidentiality and discretion are essential. In addition, they should be familiar with and contribute to public safety communications. Education and Experience: Experience working in public relations for higher education, an agency, government or comparable setting. Experience with writing and journalism. Experience creating and executing media campaigns preferred. Essential Skills: The Associate Director of Issues Management must have the ability to stay current with changing priorities and developments within the department and across the University. Must have thorough knowledge of and hands-on experience in media relations and communication of complex issues. Strong written and oral communications skills are essential. The ability to handle difficult situations and those that fall outside established procedures and guidelines. Demonstrated ease and efficiency in meeting the communications needs of senior executives. Demonstrated ability to address issues and crises with collegiality and poise. AA/EEO Statement: 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.