Senior Director of Public Relations

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

• Health & Wellness:
  Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness:
  Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development:
  Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks:
  Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

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The Senior Director of Public Relations is a senior communications strategist responsible for leading the University's enterprise-wide media relations, public relations, and external communications initiatives that advance Howard University's reputation, visibility, and strategic priorities. The Senior Director serves as one of the University's primary media relations leaders, providing strategic counsel to senior leadership while overseeing proactive and responsive communications that strengthen Howard University's reputation among key stakeholders.

Under the direction of the Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, and as a member of the Office of University Communications leadership team, the Senior Director develops and implements integrated public relations strategies that elevate the University's local, national, and global profile by promoting academic excellence, research innovation, institutional leadership, faculty expertise, student achievement, alumni success, community engagement, and other strategic initiatives.

The Senior Director of Public Relations serves as a senior communications leader responsible for advancing Howard University's reputation through strategic media relations, issues management, executive communications, and risk/crisis communications. The position partners with senior leadership and University stakeholders to support institutional priorities and enhance the University's visibility and brand.

Provides strategic leadership and supervision for the Media Relations staff, student workers and student interns, including assigning work, establishing performance expectations, coaching and mentoring staff, conducting performance evaluations, and supporting professional development. Oversees the Media Relations operating budget, external vendors, and departmental resources to ensure the effective and efficient execution of strategic communications initiatives.

• Collaborate with the Office of University Communications leadership and management teams to develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies that support the University's strategic priorities and institutional goals.
• Lead proactive media relations initiatives that increase visibility for Howard University's academic, research, philanthropic, and institutional accomplishments.
• Identify and develop opportunities to position University leaders, faculty, and subject matter experts as trusted voices on issues of national and global importance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, national, and international media outlets.
• Develop integrated communications plans for major institutional announcements, initiatives, and special projects.

• Serve as a background spokesperson for the University and respond to media inquiries on behalf of the institution.
• Develop media pitches, press releases, background materials, talking points, and press kits.
• Coordinate interviews, media briefings, editorial board meetings, and press conferences.
• Cultivate long‑term relationships with journalists, editors, producers, and influencers across print, broadcast, digital, and trade media.
• Monitor emerging news opportunities and recommend proactive media engagement strategies.
• Ser…