Special Assistant to the Vice President and Chief Communications Officer

Washington, DC
Posted on  

Job Description

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.
Here is what we offer:
  • 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

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
BASIC FUNCTION:
Howard University is seeking a seasoned communications professional to serve as the Special Assistant to the Vice President and Chief Communications Officer (VP/CCO). This senior-level role requires a strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills, a deep understanding of political and federal environments, and a proven ability to operate in high-pressure situations. The Special Assistant will play a key role in developing and executing communications strategies that advance the University's mission, brand, and reputation. This position reports to the Vice President and Chief Communications Officer in the Office of University Communications.
NATURE AND SCOPE:
Work closely with internal and external constituents to facilitate knowledge share, communications policy and information exchange. Provide guidance on key issues related to variety of audiences, including faculty, staff, alumni, BOT, Cabinet, University president, donors and friends of the University. Representing the university, work closely with external contacts including contractors, vendors, and suppliers, professional organizations and the general public.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Provide portfolio management support for the Vice President & Chief Communications Officer, Office of University Communications on the following:
  • Strategic Communications: Collaborate on the development and implementation of comprehensive communications strategies, including public relations, thought leadership, radio and television production, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
  • Confidential Advisory Role: Serve as a trusted advisor to the VP/CCO, providing guidance, strategy and implementation on sensitive and high-stakes communications matters.
  • Executive Level Editorial Writing and Editing: Draft and edit high-impact executive editorial communications (letters to the community, speeches, op-eds, remarks, presentations, etc.) for the University President and other senior leaders, ensuring alignment with the University's voice, mission, and strategic goals.
  • Crisis and Rapid Response: Support the development of rapid response strategies during crises or emerging issues, ensuring clear, consistent, and timely messaging.
  • Stakeholder Communications: Liaise with the Office of the Chief Administration Officer on internal and external stakeholder communications and engagement with government officials, media, and community leaders, to foster strategic partnerships and amplify the University's message.
  • Project Management: collaborate with the Administrative Assistant to the VP/CCO to ensure the projects, assignments and priorities under the Office of University Communications management portfolio are completed according to expectations and deadlines.
  • Travel and Flexibility: Support the University President and VP/CCO during University events, conferences, and meetings, including periodic travel and after-hours availability as needed.
  • Communications Management Support: other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS & CORE COMPETENCIES:
  • Experience: Minimum of 10 years of professional communications experience, including roles in federal, political, not-for profit, public relations firms and or academic environments.
  • Executive Portfolio Management Support: Experience working directly with senior executives, senior officials, communications teams, and management teams. Ability to use good judgment and make sound decisions that demonstrate problem solving ability, adaptability and responsiveness to change. Ability to establish priorities, meet deadlines and deliver quality customer service. Proven ability to manage diverse and complex projects and manage to successful outcomes.
  • Executive Writing Expertise: Demonstrated success in crafting compelling remarks and talking points, other executive communications. Excellent oral, written and rapid response communication skills.
  • Strategic Acumen: Proven ability to develop and execute high-level communications strategies that achieve organizational objectives.
  • Crisis Management: Experience managing crisis communications with a focus on rapid, strategic responses.
  • Project & Team Management: proven skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Ability to think critically and analytically, work independently and be detailed oriented. Ability to work as a team member and establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relations with students, faculty, staff, university officials,
    and vendors.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • Experience: Minimum of 10 years of professional communications experience, including roles in federal, political, not-for profit, public relations firms and or academic environments.
  • Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Political Science, Journalism, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree is preferred but not required.
  • Work Ethic: Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends, and the ability to travel periodically.
  • Confidentiality: Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with the utmost discretion.
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
Expected Pay Range: $140,909 - $155,000

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