Senior Director for Communications

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute an integrated, multi-channel communications strategy aligned with Columbia Global’s mission and strategic plan.
• Define and activate the institutional voice to ensure messaging consistency across all audiences, including faculty, donors, and media.
• Lead brand identity and refresh initiatives across the Columbia Global portfolio.
• Oversee digital and social media strategy, driving innovation in content formats like short-form video and immersive storytelling.
• Lead a team of three communications professionals and manage a network of external consultants and creative partners.
• Provide senior-level executive communications support, including speech writing and thought leadership positioning.
• Manage institutional crisis communications, including rapid-response protocols and reputational risk management.
• Build and cultivate relationships with local, national, and international media outlets.
• Monitor and report on communications effectiveness using data analytics and defined KPIs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or a related field.
• 8–10 years of professional communications experience.
• Proven expertise in crisis communications and digital communications strategy.
• Experience working in higher education, international development, or global affairs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Affairs, or International Affairs.
• 10+ years of progressive experience with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proficiency with communications analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Meltwater, Cision).
• Experience working across international contexts and managing diverse cultural and regulatory nuances.
• Multilingual proficiency (e.g., Spanish, French, or Arabic) is a plus.

About the Company

Columbia Global is the University's primary platform for global engagement, comprising Columbia World Projects, the Institute for Ideas and Imagination, the Committee on Global Thought, and a network of Global Centers across multiple international markets.