Vice Chancellor for Communications

Please note: The search will remain open until filled, however, for optimal consideration, application materials should be submitted by March 5, 2025.

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.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Office of University Communications is responsible for the strategic management of the overall public relations and reputation activities of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a $4.2 billion higher education enterprise. The department publishes and promotes a variety of content that highlights the people and mission of the University and works with units across campus on issues management, and crisis communications to internal and external audiences. In addition, it provides leadership, strategic counsel and services to over 200 communicators across campus and works with those communicators to ensure a unified campus-wide communications strategy. Areas within University Communications include: Executive Communications, Internal Communications, Media Relations, Content Strategy, Social Media, Issues Management, Visual Production, Digital Publications/The Well, Marketing/ UNC Creative and the UNC Visitors Center.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Chancellor, the Vice Chancellor for Communications will serve on the Chancellor’s Cabinet and is an integral member of the senior leadership team. Serving as the university’s chief communications and marketing officer, this leader will be an important partner in successfully interpreting and promoting the mission of the University and building and protecting its reputation with both internal and external constituencies to create a climate of public and private support. The Vice Chancellor for Communications is responsible for the development and strategic management of all the University’s public relations, internal communications, marketing and reputation management activities in coordination with schools, units, academic and administrative leaders across campus.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

A relevant post-baccalaureate degree with a minimum of ten years of related professional experience is required. A relevant undergraduate degree and a minimum of twelve years of substantially relevant experience may be substituted for the advanced degree.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

15 years or greater of demonstrated senior leadership experience overseeing a communications, public relations, marketing or public affairs program in a large, complex organization similar in scope and complexity to The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Expert knowledge and understanding of all aspects of communications, including media, digital and social channels.
Expert knowledge of marketing strategies, tactics and techniques. Expert skill in advising and consulting leadership teams, faculty and other stakeholders advance institutional programs, policies and priorities.
Demonstrated expertise in crisis communications and advising executive leadership, as well as the ability to serve as a public spokesperson for the University. Ability to synthesize the University’s vision, mission, strategic goals and key issues into concrete messages for educational, informational and marketing purposes to foster public understanding in these areas. Ability to identify and respond to issues and concerns of University administration and a variety of constituencies.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

N/A

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer 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.

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Please select the response below that describes your level of education that best or mostly closely satisfies the education requirements for this position.
  • Bachelor’s degree in required discipline(s) listed or related field
  • Bachelor's degree in any field/discipline
  • Master's degree or Doctorate degree in required discipline(s) listed or related field
  • Master's degree or Doctorate degree in any field/discipline
  • None of the above