Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations

• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Bargaining Unit:
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $125,000 to $145,000

Position Summary

Columbia Engineering seeks an accomplished and forward-thinking Director of Strategic Communications and Media Relations to lead the school’s storytelling and media engagement strategy. Reporting to the Executive Director of Communications, this individual will define editorial priorities, shape the school’s media relations agenda, and craft high-impact narratives that highlight major research milestones, faculty achievements, and thought leadership.

The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of engineering and scientific research, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences, including media, policymakers, industry leaders, and academic peers.

In this role, the Director will champion the strategic communication of Columbia Engineering’s pioneering research, innovations, and academic excellence while developing materials for industry engagement, faculty-led workshops, and vision papers that articulate emerging areas of impact. Through a mix of traditional and digital media channels, the Director will elevate the school’s visibility, strengthen key partnerships, and amplify its global presence; all while advancing Columbia Engineering’s mission of Engineering for Humanity.

Responsibilities

Media Relations Strategy and Public Engagement (35%):

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, research-based communication strategy in alignment with the institution’s mission and long-term goals.
• Partner with the Dean, faculty, and department leaders to ensure media and public engagement initiatives advance institutional priorities and enhance visibility.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with local, national, and international media outlets across print, broadcast, and digital platforms to position the school as a leading source of expertise and innovation.
• Proactively identify, shape, and pitch high-impact stories that highlight the global relevance and societal impact of Columbia Engineering’s research and thought leadership.

News Pitching and Amplification (30%):

• Lead the development and dissemination of original press releases, ensuring that research achievements are communicated with clarity, accuracy, and strategic intent.
• Oversee the creation of feature stories, profiles, and multimedia content that translate complex scientific and engineering discoveries into engaging narratives for broad audiences.
• Repurpose content across multiple platforms, including podcasts, video, and social media to amplify reach and engagement.
• Maintain a dynamic editorial and content calendar that integrates key academic publications, research milestones, and institutional achievements to sustain a consistent communications rhythm.

Centers, Initiatives, and Industry Engagement (20%):

• Lead the announcement and promotion of new research centers and initiatives through integrated campaigns featuring strategic messaging, visuals, and storytelling.
• Develop and sustain narratives that convey the research impact, leadership, and expertise within the school’s 20+ centers and programs.
• Strengthen relationships with media, industry partners, and peer institutions to expand the visibility and influence of Columbia Engineering’s centers.
• Partner with faculty to refine and present research materials for external audiences—supporting mini-workshop discussions, vision papers, and other industry-facing communications.
• Align center narratives with emerging global trends and sector priorities, reinforcing Columbia Engineering’s role as a leader in innovation and applied research.

Project Management and Coordination (10%): 

• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Editorial Director, and internal and external creative partners, including designers, photographers, and editors, to ensure all communications projects meet strategic objectives, brand standards, and timelines.

Measurement and Continuous Improvement (5%):

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the reach, effectiveness, and impact of communication strategies.
• Leverage qualitative and quantitative insights to continuously refine messaging, improve audience engagement, and enhance the school’s overall communications effectiveness.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related scientific or engineering field strongly preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in research communications, media relations, or strategic storytelling in a complex academic, research, or industry environment.

   

  • Proven record of shaping and executing communications strategies that elevate scientific visibility and institutional reputation.

     

  • Demonstrated success managing high-profile, research-based media campaigns and cultivating relationships with national and international press.

     

  • Experience collaborating across academic units, research centers, and partner institutions to develop cohesive, cross-disciplinary communications.

• Skills and Abilities:

   

  • Exceptional ability to translate complex technical and scientific concepts into accessible, compelling narratives for diverse audiences.

     

  • Strong editorial judgment and strategic thinking skills, with a demonstrated ability to align communications with institutional priorities.

     

  • Excellent interpersonal, writing, and project management skills, with experience influencing outcomes across teams without formal supervisory authority.

     

  • Ability to balance multiple high-stakes projects in a fast-paced environment with diplomacy, precision, and discretion.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.