Director of University Relations

Position Summary

Walsh University is seeking a dynamic and passionate public relations professional to serve as its next Director of University Relations. This strategic communicator will lead the development and management of internal and external communications to strengthen relationships with Walsh’s diverse audiences, elevate the University’s visibility, and advance public engagement locally, regionally, and beyond.

The Director will serve as Walsh’s primary writer and media relations manager, crafting compelling stories and coordinating outreach that reflects the University’s mission and brand. Working closely with the Vice President for Marketing Communications and Chief Public Affairs Officer, this individual will help refine and promote Walsh’s brand identity, support institutional priorities, and enhance the University’s reputation through thoughtful, creative, and consistent messaging.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Collaborates with University leadership and marketing communications team to advance institutional goals and strategies
• Serves as the University’s primary writer, producing original, high-quality content including press releases, feature articles, faculty/student/alumni profiles, campus updates, and web stories
• Oversees editorial direction and content development for University publications and collateral materials including the Walsh Wire, Walsh University Magazine, and President’s Report
• Cultivates strong relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts; proactively pitches stories, issues press releases, and highlights the achievements and initiatives of the University
• Serves as University spokesperson for non-emergency interactions and assists in managing communications during crisis situations in coordination with senior leadership
• Enhances the University’s community presence by promotion campus events, fostering partnerships with community organizations, and coordinating media participation in key initiatives
• Schedules photography coverage for major university events to support marketing

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) of this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Required Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

Must demonstrate an understanding the Walsh University Statement of Faith and a commitment to support the Mission, Vision, Values and Code of Ethical Conduct of Walsh University in accordance with Ex Corde Ecclesiae and the Catholic intellectual tradition. Must also possess the following:

Education: Bachelor’s degree required in journalism, communications or related field

Work Experience: A minimum of 7 years of experience in a public relations related field with a solid track record of success in the below skills

Skills and abilities:

• Must have a passion for writing and demonstrate excellent written/oral communication skills with a strong understanding of AP Style
• Must demonstrate a keen understanding of how communication supports the university’s mission and strategic objectives.
• The ideal candidate would have pre-existing knowledge of key Northeast Ohio media contacts and be able to provide ample support for past public relations accomplishments
• Knowledge of National Catholic media is a plus
• Exceptional proofreading skills and attention to detail
• Strong ability to work independently, while meeting deadlines and managing multiple projects
• A desire to constantly learn and innovate
• Experience in crisis communications planning and execution
• Ability to liaise effectively between different departments, participate in senior level management discussions and facilitate the creative process at all levels
• Ability to make quick decisions, problem solve and multi-task
• Strong execution, leadership and consensus building/decision making skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills required to effectively manage relationships with diverse international internal and external contacts
• Professional demeanor and ability to interact with charity towards students, staff and faculty. Positive attitude a must.
• Higher education experience is preferred but not required.
• Some evening and weekend hours

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

• Physical requirements of the job include prolonged sitting, extended periods of keyboard work and use of a computer monitor, standing and walking between offices and campus buildings and may occasionally lift and carry objects no more than 20 pounds. Must be able to work in a busy fast-paced environment.

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a completed online application and any additional documents requested by the search/interview committee. This may include resume, unofficial transcripts, etc.

About Walsh University

Walsh University is seeking a dynamic, energetic, and passionate individual who is enthusiastic about contributing to a private, faithfully Catholic institution of higher learning and serving the common good. Walsh University promotes academic excellence, an engaged community, and a commitment to helping students discover their life purpose. Grounded in values of faith, excellence, integrity, service, and community, Walsh University is committed to principles of equal opportunity and is an equal opportunity employer.