Communications Specialist - Advancement Communications

Classification Title

Communications Specialist

The Communication Specialist with UF Health Communications within the College of Medicine calls for a strong, versatile, creative writer and editor with excellent organizational and planning skills who will conceptualize, develop and produce compelling content for a variety of the college’s print and digital publications as well as for donor and alumni communications and campaign materials.

The ideal candidate is experienced in reporting, information gathering and news, feature, and web writing, and is knowledgeable in multimedia formats such as social media platforms, photography and video. Superb writing skills, accuracy, attention to detail, enthusiasm, reliability and the ability to work quickly and well as a member of a productive team are essential.

Writing and Reporting

• Serves as a primary writer and storyteller for the UF College of Medicine. Conceptualizes, develops and produces news and feature stories and other content for a variety of print and electronic publications — — the College of Medicine news website, Doctor Gator, Florida Physician magazine and the college’s biweekly newsletter — as well as various UF College of Medicine and UF Health projects, such as brochures, newsletters, fact sheets, websites, annual reports, campaign materials, thought leadership pieces and donor profiles.
• Collaborates closely with the social media manager to assist in the production of content for the college’s social media channels. Produces and reports on stories covering a variety of topics, such as exemplary members of the college community and alumni, college wide events, impactful research, awards presentations, ceremonies and gift announcements. Must be well-versed in Associated Press style. Complies with editing, review, news distribution and identity/branding policies of UF Health Communications and the university.

• In coordination with UF Health Communications, identifies opportunities to pitch story ideas to outlets, including traditional media, new media and industry publications, to elevate awareness of the college and enhance its reputation. Produces and disseminates press releases to promote research breakthroughs and major activities in the college. Identifies and leverages public relations opportunities and marketing needs and develops goals, tactics and deliverables to support efforts for the UF College of Medicine’s mission areas.
  
  Participates in strategic communications planning.

• Collaborate closely with UF Health creative services and College of Medicine communications staff to coordinate photography, videography and graphic design to complete projects. Develops, implements and updates communications plans for college initiatives and recurring activities.

• Supports the College of Medicine communications team with implementing a cost-effective communications strategy to promote UF Health programs to internal and external audiences, including faculty, students, donors, alumni and other constituents. Compiles, analyzes and makes recommendations based on website analytics and other metrics used to track effectiveness of the college’s communications, particularly its storytelling efforts. Compiles data and materials for the college’s communications-related reports.
• Builds relationships with college administrators, support staff and students to scout stories and keep informed of college activities. Presents to and advises faculty, students and staff at the college on best practices for communications. Participates in UF Health Communications, college and/or campus initiatives, projects and committees, as appropriate. Occasionally takes photos and works on basic video and multimedia projects.

The University of Florida's College of Medicine is committed to advancing health through education, research, and patient care. With a focus on innovation and excellence, the college prepares future healthcare leaders through a rigorous curriculum that combines basic sciences with hands-on…