Associate Director

POSITION SUMMARY The Associate Director of Communications and Media, leads strategic communications and media storytelling including photography, video, and written content for The King’s University’s Marketing and Communications team. Shapes brand voice and key messaging across all platforms, personally produces and directs original photography and video content that captures the university’s mission and community, and ensures consistent, high-quality communications across internal and external audiences. RESPONSIBILITIES The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties and responsibilities noted herein, however, this list represents examples only, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description. Position Specific Responsibilities Communications Strategy & Content Development Develop and lead the university’s overall communications strategy, ensuring consistent brand voice and key messaging across all internal and external channels. Write, edit, and publish high-quality content such as news articles, feature stories, web copy, email communications, and staff communications that reflect The King’s mission and brand. Serve as a key communications partner to university leadership and campus departments, advising on messaging, tone, and communication strategy for institutional initiatives and events. Manage internal and external communications, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and alignment with The King’s brand and mission. Draft and coordinate media relations materials (press releases, media assets, media packages) and serve as a point of contact for local and community media inquiries. Photography & Video Production Leadership Own the university’s visual storytelling strategy, producing original photography and video content that captures campus life, academics, and student stories. Personally shoot and edit photography and video — including short-form content (Reels/Stories) and longer produced pieces (recaps, testimonials, spotlights) — for use across web, social, and print channels. Provide photography and videography coverage for university events, ensuring a current, high-quality visual library for institutional use. Direct and coordinate any freelance or student photographers/videographers to extend coverage capacity while maintaining brand and quality standards. Maintain and organize the university’s photo and video asset library for ongoing departmental and institutional use. Digital & Social Media Content Set strategy and creative direction for social media content across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn (and emerging platforms), targeting a consistent, high-quality weekly content cadence. Write platform‑specific copy and captions, and oversee community management — monitoring comments, messages, and mentions to drive engagement. Support blog and email newsletters publishing as needed, from editorial planning through editing and scheduling. Track and report on content and social media analytics, using insights to refine strategy. Provide leadership during institutional planning, accreditation reviews, and major strategic initiatives. University-Wide Responsibilities Model core organizational beliefs and values; communicate openly and effectively within and across departments; establish and maintain professional communication and ensure that all interactions are supportive, courteous, and respectful (TKU Social Covenant). Utilize effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly both internally and publically. Participate in professional development activities that are aligned with University, departmental and individual goals. Maintain accurate and complete records as required by governing entities (DOE, TRACS, ABHE, etc.); file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required. Attend and participate in staff meetings and serve on committees as required. Comply with all policies, operating procedures, legal requirements, and verbal and written directives. Perform other related duties as assigned. Organizational & Cultural Expectations At The King’s University, every employee is expected to actively support and advance the University’s mission to integrate Biblical education and practical ministry to shape Spirit-formed individuals who follow Jesus, serve His Church, and are sent to impact the world, by living out our Christ-centered culture in daily work and relationships. Employees are expected to operate in alignment with The King’s Culture, demonstrated through the following shared expectations: Spirit-Formed Leadership Demonstrates a growing, authentic Christian faith marked by integrity, humility, teachability, discernment, and trustworthiness. Leads self and others in a manner that reflects Christ’s character, embraces accountability, and pursues continual personal and spiritual growth. Courageous Collaboration Works effectively and respectfully with others across diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Communicates honestly, adapts to change, takes appropriate initiative, and contributes to unity through grace-filled relationships, thoughtful risk‑taking, and a commitment to shared goals. Gracious Service Approaches work with humility, compassion, and excellence. Takes ownership of responsibilities, serves others with a Christ-like heart, manages time and resources responsibly, and consistently seeks to honor God through faithful stewardship and professional conduct. All employees are expected to model these competencies in their interactions with students, colleagues, leadership, and external partners. These cultural expectations guide how we hire, develop, evaluate, and support our community as we work together to reflect Christ in all we do. QUALIFICATIONS Education Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, film/video production, photography, or a related field, or commensurate work experience in a related field. Experience 5-8 years of experience in marketing and communications, media production, journalism, or public relations (higher education experience a plus), with 2-3 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity. A strong portfolio demonstrating professional photography and video storytelling, including event coverage and short‑form/produced video editing. Proven experience developing and executing communications strategy, including media relations and brand messaging. Experience managing organizational social media accounts and content calendars with the flexibility to interface with external digital marketing agency. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to write for varied audiences and formats. Preferred Competencies Strong storytelling instincts and an eye for compelling visual and written narrative. Skilled in photography and videography, including on‑location/event coverage, lighting, composition, and video editing (e.g., Premiere Pro, CapCut, or similar tools). Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or other tools for photo/video editing and visual content creation. Strong news judgment and understanding of media relations and public‑facing communications. Clear, concise, and adaptable writing and editing skills across formats (news, social, web, executive communications). Critical and logical thinking, good judgment, and problem‑solving. Self‑starter with consistent initiative, comfortable working independently in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment, including on‑location at events. Leadership mindset with the ability to delegate, motivate others, and both receive and provide constructive feedback. Adaptability and openness to learning new platforms, technologies, and storytelling formats. Strong technical skills in Microsoft Office and Apple OS. Basic knowledge of digital marketing/email tools and web CMS platforms (will be trained on The King’s proprietary systems). Ability to interpret and apply analytics to optimize content and communications strategy. Other Requirements Valid Driver’s License Criminal Background Verification MENTAL/PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS Maintain emotional control under stress while working in a high‑intensity, fast‑paced environment. Daily listening, speaking, and written communication with people. Regularly work on‑location at university events to capture photo/video content, including some evening and weekend hours. Ability to carry and operate camera and video equipment for extended periods. Lift up to 25 lbs. #J-18808-Ljbffr