Democracy360 Communications Manager, Karsh Institute

The Karsh Institute of Democracy at the University of Virginia seeks an energetic, creative and detail-oriented Communications Manager to support all facets of communications for Democracy360, the Institute's flagship event designed to engage diverse audiences in discussions and activities that explore the state and future of democracy. Democracy360 will be held October 16-18, 2025, in Charlottesville, VA.

The Communications Manager will report to the Institute's Director of Communications and be responsible for assisting with the development and execution of a comprehensive communications plan to market Democracy360 and engage diverse audiences during and after the event. This position has the potential for evening and weekend work during peak periods.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Promotion:

• Work with the Associate Director of Content and Marketing to draft and implement a marketing plan to build awareness and excitement for Democracy360 across UVA, the Charlottesville community, and national audiences.

• Work with the Associate Director of Content and Marketing to coordinate ad buys and manage digital advertising.

• Draft promotional content, including press releases, digital newsletters, social media posts, and website content.

• Collaborate with graphic designers, videographers, and other creative professionals to assist in the production of high-quality promotional materials.

Event Coverage:

• During the event, draft clear, engaging, and brand-aligned content for a variety of platforms, including social media, email, and website.

Social Media Coordination:

• Advise on and execute a robust social media strategy to promote and tell the story of Democracy360, leveraging multiple social platforms to reach diverse audiences.

• Monitor social media engagement and respond to inquiries in a timely and professional manner.

Media Relations:

• Serve as a first point of contact for media inquiries related to Democracy360.

• Work with the Communications Director to coordinate press outreach and manage relationships with journalists, media outlets, and key stakeholders.

• Provide on-site media support during the event, including managing press check-in, helping to coordinate interviews, and troubleshooting issues.

Event Support:

• Assist with event logistics and ensure communications materials are distributed effectively before, during, and after the event.

• Work collaboratively with the programming and events team to align communications efforts with broader event planning goals.

• Support additional projects and tasks as assigned to ensure the success of Democracy360 and related initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree

• At least seven years, or Master's degree with at least five years, of journalism or public relations experience.

• Marketing, PR, or ad agency experience.

• Digital marketing experience, including content development and ad buying.

• Experience with or willingness to learn the Cvent platform, including registration, reporting, and communications.

• Outstanding attention to detail.

• Experience writing in a brand voice.

• Experience creating communications content for a brand or organization.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Contributes to a work climate where differences are valued and supported.

• Proactive disposition and professional and positive demeanor.

• Proven ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

• Demonstrates adaptability and a proactive problem-solving mindset in dynamic environments.

• Commitment to the mission of the Karsh Institute.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as political science, public administration, or communications.

• Experience with Adobe Premiere and After Effects.

• Experience with Drupal or other web-editing tools.

• Experience with the Cvent platform.

• Familiarity with large-scale events or conferences.

Review of applications will begin in beginning at the end of February 2025. The position will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

This is a restricted full-time position starting end of March 2025 start date and end date of December 31, 2025.The anticipated hiring range is $67,000 - $72,000.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician's Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.