Manager, External Affairs (43131)

Position Title: Manager - External Affairs

Department Name: Office of the President - External Relations Team

Position Reports To: Chief of Staff

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

Salary Range: $90,000 - $110,000

Benefits: The GGU University's comprehensive benefits program

Days & Hours: Monday through Friday, 37.5 hours per week. Standard work schedule is 9:00 am to 5:30 PM, may be adjusted. Flexible schedule may require evening and weekend hours during peak periods. This is a remote position.

BASIC FUNCTION AND SCOPE OF JOB:

The External Relations Manager helps shape how the world sees Golden Gate University. Reporting to the President's Office, the Manager partners with teams across the University to craft and amplify GGU's story through strategic communications and content. The Manage is responsible for managing projects and workflows that drive external relations initiatives, creating compelling content that advances the University's global brand, and leveraging AI tools to enhance team effectiveness and efficiency.

KEY CANDIDATE QUALITIES:

• Thrives in a fast-paced environment
• Executes independently with strategic direction from leadership
• Incorporates AI whenever possible to improve and accelerate outcomes
• Possesses a bias for action and removes barriers to execution

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Project Management

• Own the external relations calendar-coordinating marketing campaigns, communications initiatives, and presidential engagements to maximize impact and alignment with institutional priorities
• Track milestones and deliverables, anticipating bottlenecks before they arise
• Lead planning meetings with stakeholders to ensure cross-functional coordination
• Leverage AI tools to streamline workflows, automate routine tasks, and enhance team productivity
• Document activities and outcomes to support reporting and continuous improvement

Content Deployment

• Publish content across university channels (web, email, social media, print), ensuring consistent branding and messaging
• Manage email campaigns end-to-end: segmentation, scheduling, and performance analysis
• Maintain website content for accuracy, timeliness, and SEO
• Use AI-powered analytics to monitor channel performance and identify optimization opportunities
• Experiment with emerging AI tools to expand reach and engagement

Content Development

• Write clear, compelling copy for web, email, social media, newsletters, and promotional materials-using AI as a drafting and editing partner to accelerate production
• Partner with internal stakeholders to translate program and institutional information into engaging content
• Adapt messaging for different audiences and formats while maintaining a consistent voice
• Coordinate with designers and vendors on visual and multimedia production, including AI-generated imagery and video
• Maintain an organized content library and asset management system

AI Integration & Innovation

• Serve as a resource for the External Relations team on effective AI applications in marketing and communications
• Identify, test, and recommend new AI tools that enhance content quality and operational efficiency
• Develop lightweight processes and guidelines for responsible AI use within the team

Additional Responsibilities

• Support institutional communications, including internal announcements, press releases, and crisis response as needed
• Assist with event marketing and promotion
• Stay current on marketing trends, AI developments, and best practices in higher education

This description is a summary only and is describing the general level of work being performed. It is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the duties of this position may change based on business needs. We reserve the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities at the discretion of the supervisor and/or hiring authority.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education requirement:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university

• Years of experience:

• Preference for 5+ years of experience in roles that combined project management with content strategy, creation, and dissemination

• Knowledge of:

• Marketing principles and best practices
• Content management systems and email marketing platforms
• Social media platforms and best practices
• Copywriting, editing, and content development
• Project management principles
• Working knowledge of AI-enabled tools for content creation, research, or workflow optimization

• Skills and abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Ability to work independently with reliable professional judgment
• Collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively across departments and with diverse stakeholders
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and marketing technology tools
• Analytical mindset, with the ability to assess communication effectiveness and adjust strategies based on data and feedback
• Comfortable using AI-powered tools to support content development, research, workflow efficiency, and process improvement
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment

Supplemental Information

To apply: Please go to http://www.ggu.edu/jobs to submit an application, letter of interest, and a resume.

In applying for a position, candidates sign a consent authorizing a broader inquiry which may include reference checks, a motor vehicle check, and a third-party background check.

Golden Gate University is an equal employment opportunity employer. We support inclusive excellence and are committed to creating a safe and welcoming community for all.

University policy prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion/creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex/gender, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, gender stereotyping, and gender identity, gender expression, military or veteran status, taking a protected leave (e.g., family medical or pregnancy leave), or on any other basis protected by applicable laws.

The University has a strong commitment to the principles of diversity and inclusion, and to maintaining working and learning environments that reinforces these practices. The University welcomes and encourages applications from all demographics.

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