Director of Executive Communications

Position Number:

Payroll

Title:

COMM SPEC 4

Job Code: 5887

Job Open Date: 9/1/2025

Application Review Begins: 09/17/2025; open until filled

Department: CHAN

Percentage of Time: 100%

Union Code: 99 (Non-Represented)

Employee Class: Staff (Career)

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary Grade: Grade 24

Full Salary Range: $99,000 to $182,000 per year (budgeted $99,000 – $139,600)

Work Location: Cheadle Hall, 5117 UCSB Campus

Working Days and

Hours:

M-F; 8am - 5pm

Benefits Eligibility: Full Benefits

Work Arrangement: Hybrid

Independently oversees executive communications, working closely with the Chancellor on a communications strategy that expresses and supports the vision and mission of the university. Prepares a wide range of communications including speeches, presentations, reports to the Faculty Legislature, Foundation Board of Trustees and Alumni Board, international keynotes, media quotes and responses, campus memos, communications with UC Office of the President, public statements, interviews, award nominations, and general correspondence with high visibility and consequence of error.

Researches issues and special topics, consults with campus colleagues, writes reports, and works on complex communication projects requiring quick thinking and response, strong subject matter expertise, a high degree of political acumen and sensitivity to nuance, and an in-depth understanding of how to reach out effectively and respectfully to different audiences. Exercises diplomacy, tact, and discretion at all times; works with a high degree of autonomy while developing strategies and tracking multiple deadlines and priorities;

is flexible, organized, thoughtful, thorough, and collaborative.

• Bachelor's Degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training
• 7-9 years of experience with writing/editing in a higher education environment or related area
• Demonstrated ability to prepare speeches, presentations, and written communications for senior leadership across a variety of audiences
• Strong judgment and political acumen, with the ability to navigate sensitive and complex issues
• Proven skill in conveying complex information in a clear, concise, and compelling manner
• Experience engaging with media and public communications, including preparing leaders for interviews or public statements
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively

• 4-6 years of experience with writing/editing for a senior leader or executive

• Satisfactory completion of a background check
• UCSB is a Tobacco-Free environment

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegation or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct;

have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

“Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including but not limited to violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.

• 70% Communications: Prepares a wide range of written and electronic communications for the Chancellor; researches and ensures accuracy; monitors office email; coordinates with senior officers and institutional communications; maintains current knowledge of university programs; works closely with the Chancellor to understand priorities and support strategic communications.
• 20% Special Projects and Analysis: Provides administrative analysis and support;…