Director of Communication

Overview

Department:
Civic Life and Leadership-312500

Career Area:
Public Relations/Communications/Marketing

Posting Open Date: 01/30/2026

Final date to receive applications: 02/13/2026

Open Until Filled:
No

Position Type:
Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)

Working Title:

Director of Communication

Appointment Type: EHRA Non-Faculty

Position Number:

Vacancy

Full Time/Part Time:
Full-Time Permanent

FTE: 1

Hours per week: 40

Position Location:

North Carolina, US

Hiring Range:
Dependent on Experience and/or Qualifications

Proposed

Start Date:

03/02/2026

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

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.

In 2019, UNC-CH formed the Program for Public Discourse (PPD), recognizing that the complex nature of the pressing issues of our day require reasoned debate rooted in a strong foundation of basic knowledge and a spirit of open intellectual inquiry. To fulfill the ‘democratic competencies’ goals of UNC’s Carolina Next (5.2-3) and in light of increased pressures and challenges facing our democracy, the UNC Board of Trustees identified the need for degree-oriented programs in the area of Civic Life and Leadership and resolved that the campus accelerate development of a School of Civic Life and Leadership.

In September 2023, SCiLL was established by the Provost and an act of the North Carolina General Assembly.

SCiLL provides an interdisciplinary home specifically for the study and practice of public discourse, civic life, and civic leadership. SCiLL provides students a grounding in the foundations and current state of American political experience and democracy. A wide range of courses build on this foundation to encourage thoughtful engagement with democracy and civility through a variety of disciplines.

The Director of Communications will have the primary responsibility and oversight for all public relations, communications, and marketing for the UNC School of Civic Life and Leadership, with the goal of developing, managing, and carrying out its strategic communications.

This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned communicator who can hit the ground running and help develop a young, rapidly growing school. A growth mindset, entrepreneurial spirit, and proactive approach are essential for success in this role. The right candidate is a go-getter who will help communicate and amplify our vision, who is capable of executing in fast-moving, high-stakes environments with sound judgement, composure and a mission-driven approach.

The ideal candidate will bring experience in communications preferably honed through work in government, public affairs, the private sector or political environments – where discretion, judgment and clarity under pressure are paramount. Exceptional organization, strategic insight, and an instinct for timing and tone are essential, along with the ability to coordinate messaging across multiple stakeholders and media channels.

The Director is an integral member of the school’s leadership team and will report to the Associate Dean of Finance and Operations. The Director will create and oversee the creation of a marketing and communications…