Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: N7059 / Mgr,UNM Hlth & Hlth Sci Comms
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 15
HR Review/Approval:COMP

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Under the direction of the UNM Health and Health Sciences Marketing and Communications (UNMHHS) Senior Director, manages the UNMHHS' communications efforts with respect to media relations, public information, public affairs, and publications. Develops communication strategies consistent with UNMHHS' goals, objectives, and priorities, in consultation with leadership and other appropriate individuals and groups. Implements strategies at the UNMHHS-level and coordinates with various units on campus so that the strategies are reflected in the communication programs and initiatives of operational units throughout UNMHHS.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Manages a comprehensive news and information service for UNMHHS, utilizing new and traditional media communication strategies to disseminate news and information to the media, the campus community and the general public.
  2. Supervises personnel, which typically includes recommendations for hiring, firing, performance evaluation, training, work allocation, and problem resolution.
  3. Oversees activities associated with media queries, media interviews, news releases, media kits and press conferences; develops comprehensive communication programs associated with media relations, public affairs, and UNMHHS publications; serves as a public information contact, as appropriate.
  4. Directs the cultivation and maintenance of relationships with UNMHHS constituents, University experts, and other newsmakers, as it relates to identifying story opportunities to promote the interests and accomplishments of UNMHHS.
  5. Supports the design and implementation of comprehensive UNMHHS communications plans and programs, taking into consideration institutional image, message and positioning, mission, goals, priorities and accomplishments of UNMHHS.
  6. Consults with senior leadership, faculty, staff, and other University constituents regarding communication strategies, goals, objectives, and priorities; participates in and/or leads UNM Health and Health Sciences-level communication initiatives and develops key messages impacting the institution's public image.
  7. Coordinates surveys, evaluations and assessments of external communications activities in order to determine the effectiveness.
  8. Assures quality and appropriateness of UNMHHS communication programs and initiatives, whether internally or externally produced.
  9. Establishes and implements short- and long-range departmental goals, objectives, policies and operating procedures; monitors and evaluates program effectiveness; effects changes required for improvement.
  10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; at least 7 years of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Strategic planning skills.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
  • Knowledge and understanding of current communication and marketing issues and trends applicable to educational institutions.
  • Ability to foster a cooperative environment and to work in a collegial fashion with peers in other organizational units.
  • Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Employee development and performance management skills.
  • Ability to plan and implement operational policies and procedures in area of expertise.
  • Ability to use independent judgment and to gather, manage and impart information to the media and various other internal and external audiences.
  • Knowledge of journalism, public relations and general communications principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of audio/video tape storage and archiving procedures.
  • Knowledge of professional audio/video and staging techniques, facilities, and equipment.

Conditions of Employment

  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
  • No or very limited physical effort required.
  • Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 07/24/2022