Director of Executive Communications

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Richland County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 9852688
Agency: University of South Carolina
Opening Date: 09/25/2026
Closing Date: 10/22/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: Your application must be submitted online at
Class Code:: UP03
Position Number:: 9852688
Normal Work Schedule:: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Grade: Unclassified
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.


Job Responsibilities


Director of Executive Communications Department: COMM Presidential Communications Advertised Salary Range: Part/Full Time: Full Time About UofSC From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond. Inclusive Excellence Statement Advertised Job Summary The Director of Executive Communications leads efforts to highlight the president's stewardship of the University of South Carolina's eight-campus system as well as the president's leadership in addressing major trends in the state and national higher education landscape. The director develops clear, compelling and authentic communications that advance the president's vision while strengthening USC's institutional reputation with internal and external audiences. Reporting to the Office of University Communications, the director works closely with key leadership from other units across the university to ensure accurate, consistent and coordinated institutional messaging. The director must value creative, engaging communications and storytelling; have a desire to advance the cause of public higher education; and have a curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. Additionally, the director will maintain awareness of state and national current events and demonstrate the ability to recognize opportunities for the president to engage at the of the public discourse and higher education.
Minimum and Additional Requirements


Knowledge/Skills/Abilities - Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills, with demonstrated ability to write in an executive voice for diverse audiences. - Strong judgment, discretion and ability to handle confidential and sensitive information. - Ability to manage multiple high-priority projects, meet tight deadlines and adapt quickly to changing circumstances. - Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with senior leaders, faculty, staff and external stakeholders. - Ability to work in a rapid-response, team environment.
Preferred Qualifications


Preferred Qualifications - Master's degree or equivalent professional experience. - Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in executive communications, speechwriting, journalism, public affairs, public relations or a related field. - Experience supporting a president, chief executive, elected official or other senior leader. - Experience in higher education, research institutions, government, nonprofit organizations or other complex mission-driven environments. - Experience writing op-eds, keynote speeches, public remarks and digital content for senior executives. - Familiarity with issues affecting higher education, research, public policy and economic development.

Additional Comments


Job Close Date 10/22/2026 Special Instructions to Applicant Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email. We are only accepting applications submitted by October 22, 2026. The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to: - Health and Life Insurance - Retirement Programs - Paid Tuition - Dependent Scholarships - Annual Leave - Sick Leave - 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday) - Paid Parental Leave - Professional Development Opportunities Click to learn more about why you should work at USC. To apply, please visit: EEO Statement The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions. je-f3d44d3b4ee94b3f94af14e3237a3d6e
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.


Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.


Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.


Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.


Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.