Communications Specialist, Program in American Grand Strategy, Sanford School of Public Policy

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Job Title: Communications Specialist, Program in American Grand Strategy, Sanford School of Public Policy

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Communications Specialist for the Duke Program in American Grand Strategy (AGS) within the Sanford School of Public Policy, you’ll play an important role in advancing a nationally recognized program dedicated to educating future leaders in grand strategy and national security.

You’ll collaborate with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and visiting policymakers to support AGS initiatives and its participation in the America in the World Consortium, a cross‑campus network focused on global affairs and strategy.

Be Bold.

This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of day‑to‑day communications while contributing to a high‑profile, public‑facing academic program.

What You’ll Do:

General Communications (25%)

Develop and disseminate promotional materials, including press releases, announcements, event flyers, post‑event write‑ups, and audio‑visual content.

Assist with the creation and implementation of communications strategies in collaboration with the Program Coordinator.

Create and distribute regular newsletters and updates, including a weekly email blast of program events and news to alumni and the broader AGS network.

Maintain and update the program website, including content creation, basic design and functionality, and integration with multimedia and social media platforms.

Maintain contact lists and communications databases.

Draft and disseminate the program’s annual report.

Social Media (30%)

Develop and implement social media strategy, including supporting or supervising student interns as applicable.

Maintain, monitor, and update AGS social media accounts.

Create original social media content, including stories, photographs, graphics, event promotions, course advertising, and post‑event audio‑visual content such as recordings and podcasts.

Finances (15%)

Process expenses and invoices related to program activities.

Contribute to grant proposals and applications and support compliance with funder policies and procedures.

Monitor, verify, and reconcile expenditures of budgeted funds.

Event and Programmatic Support (30%)

Create and maintain event registrations and listings on the website and relevant university platforms.

Coordinate outreach, advertising, and co‑sponsorship with campus partners, alumni, and external stakeholders.

Arrange and manage bookings and contracts related to program activities.

Provide on‑site support for events and programs, including setup and breakdown, participant check‑in, and assisting visiting speakers and other VIPs.

Take photographs and videos of program activities for use in promotional materials, social media, and reporting.

Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

What You Bring:

Education

Bachelor’s degree required.

Experience

One year of related experience in advertising, marketing, media, promotions, or public relations, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

Demonstrated ability or experience in content creation, graphic design, website administration, social media, and/or audio‑visual media.

Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively with local and remote partners.

Ability to interact effectively with students, faculty, staff, alumni, visiting dignitaries, and donors.

Interest in and understanding of U.S. foreign policy or military affairs is desirable.

Choose Duke.

At Duke University, you’ll join a collaborative, mission‑driven academic community committed to excellence, innovation, and public service. Duke offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth.

This position reports to the Associate Director of the Program in American Grand Strategy and requires flexible work hours, including occasional evening and weekend events and field trips.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.