Communications Specialist III

Involves developing, implementing or executing a comprehensive, multidisciplinary communications program; involves work in two or more communications disciplines OR work not otherwise covered in other communications job families.

Generic Scope

Experienced professional who knows how to apply theory and put it into practice with in-depth understanding of the professional field; independently performs the full range of responsibilities within the function; possesses broad job knowledge; analyzes problems / issues of diverse scope and determines solutions.

Custom Scope

The Communications Specialist independently oversees a comprehensive communications program for the Department of Emergency Medicine (DEM), which includes written, visual, digital and electronic communications. The role will partner with DEM leadership, faculty, staff, trainees and other key stakeholders to develop and execute organizational communication and market branding strategy in alignment with overarching brand and communications strategies of the UCSF enterprise and, where appropriate, UCSF Health. The Communication Specialist is responsible for leading, developing and managing all aspects of internal/external communications, including website content, newsletters, annual reports, social media presence, fundraising, etc.

This position requires extensive experience in all aspects of communications, including strong writing and editing skills, experience managing social media platforms and familiarity with publishing in peer-reviewed medical journals. The individual must have a high degree of organization, initiative, ability to interact with many diverse personalities and function effectively under the stress of competing priorities. The Communications Specialist serves in an autonomous capacity as the primary point of contact on behalf of the department to the UCSF community, donors, alumni, national and international organizations and the public at-large. The individual in this position must demonstrate good judgment and critical thinking in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions and requires a high level of professionalism and diplomacy.

Department Overview

The Department of Emergency Medicine (DEM) provides emergency medical care to approximately 177,000 patients annually at the UCSF Medical Center at Parnassus, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in San Francisco and Oakland, and Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. DEM administrative and research staff supports the work of 94 full-time faculty, 50+ attending physicians, a residency program, fellowship programs and over 300 house staff and students each year. Our vision is to be the leader in compassionate, innovative and equitable emergency care for all people at all times.

Strategic Communications Planning

Works with DEM leadership and key stakeholders to create, develop, and implement long- and short-term strategic communications plans and / or projects.

• Develops and manages efficient and effective information management systems, projects and communications to ensure accurate and timely communication.
• Sets strategic communications priorities, identifies key audiences, and determines which media and technologies are best suited to its audiences, while establishing best practices for effective messaging.

Communications Program Management

Manages comprehensive communications programs, including written, visual, digital, and electronic communications.

• Prepares, edits and/or composes near final drafts including, but not limited to department-wide communications on behalf of the Chair, newsletters, annual reports, abstracts, letters of support, nomination packets, book reviews and professional papers.
• Manages the design and drafting of organizational, DEM website and social media content; drafts and prepares newsletters and correspondence.
• Manages and oversees DEM photo repository, consent tracking and ensures compliance with relevant University policies.
• Manages and updates departmental email distribution lists and is responsible for communicating all relevant updates (e.g., DEM policies, practice documents, etc.) to the department in a timely manner.
• Manages and develops internal and external communications, including Department newsletters, and collaborates with and/or supports UCSF University Development & Alumni Relations to develop appropriate communications for potential donors and with the Office of Communications to support media relations to promote/disseminate research. All content the individual develops and disseminates must align with UCSF strategic communications priorities, as well as brand strategy and UCSF’s brand identity standards, as posted at identity.ucsf.edu. All outreach to, and inquiries from news media must be referred to the Public Affairs unit within the UCSF Office of Communications.
• Oversees, designs and implements all Departmental public materials, including website, social media, email communications and use of other new media.

Communications Consultation and Strategy

Advises and consults with departmental / college administration regarding all aspects of communications including developing strong communications strategies that effectively deliver the desired message, policy interpretation, and problem resolution.

• Collaborates with other department communicators, communication professionals, and communications leaders aligning department communication goals with those of the School of Medicine, the University and UCSF Health. This includes collaboration with the UCSF Office of Communications.
• Manages, tracks, and spearheads the department’s strategic communication plan, redirecting resources as needed and offering real-time troubleshooting.

Communications Production

Ensures production of high quality products that effectively deliver the desired message within budget and time constraints.

• Works closely with DEM Leadership and stakeholders to understand communication requirements and needs, determines most appropriate media and creates cost-effective products in a timely manner.

Communications Technology and Organizational Improvement

Identifies specific communications needs and develops the content and process for organizational improvements.

• Serve as the subject matter expert for new communication technologies and plan when such technologies should be implemented, identifying resource needs, etc.
• Designs and implements information campaigns with specific plans for content creation and capitalizes on emerging communication technologies.

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of all aspects of communications, including strategic planning for various media venues, technical aspects and requirements of various venues, and most appropriate and effective applications.
• Knowledge and understanding of technical applications to effectively direct technical staff, or personally perform technical work, including design concepts, various media, and applications.
• Knowledge of the organization, its achievements, mission, vision, goals, policies, practices, infrastructure, and a strong knowledge of current affairs, and issues in higher education and / or health sciences.
• Solid skills to create, develop, and implement comprehensive long and short term strategic communications plans.
• Knowledge and skills to advise and consult with management to ensure delivery of the desired message to the target and / or broad general audiences.
• Solid written, verbal, interpersonal communications, active listening and political acumen skills.
• Knowledge of location protocols and channels for communication internally and externally.
• Demonstrated experience with Drupal website development.
• Demonstrated experience with social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.).
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience.
• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.