Director of Communications - MU Research Reactor

Hiring Department

MRR Administration

Job Description

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR), in partnership with the Office of Marketing and Communications, seeks an experienced, team-oriented communications professional to serve as Director of Communications. This proactive communications advisor is responsible for the development, implementation and measurement of an integrated communications and marketing strategy for MURR and NextGen MURR.

For nearly 60 years, scientists at MURR have conducted groundbreaking research and collaborated with industry partners to develop unique products, including lifesaving radiopharmaceuticals. MURR’s prominence as a producer of medical isotopes is part of a nearly six-decade accomplished history. Operating at 10 megawatts, the facility is the highest-power university research reactor in the United States, and its reliability makes it an essential resource for researchers, scientists, engineers, students and industry partners.

NextGen MURR is the university’s initiative to build a new 20-megawatt, state-of-the-art reactor. The new research reactor will expand critical medical isotope research and production for cancer treatment and theranostics. This project will build on the internationally recognized excellence of MURR and will serve as an innovation and manufacturing hub for nuclear medicine in the United States for decades to come.

The Director of Communications reports to the Executive Director of MURR and also has reporting responsibilities to the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications.

The Director of Communications is a member of the MURR leadership team and will collaborate with MURR and NextGen MURR senior management, researchers, university communicators, government relations and industry partners to provide a multi-channel communications strategy that effectively raises awareness of MURR and NextGen MURR among target audiences.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Direct the development, implementation and measurement of integrated communications and marketing strategies, both internal and external, to support MURR and NextGen MURR's strategic plans and advance leadership's priorities.
• Provide executive counsel, advice and support to the Executive Director of MURR, as appropriate, and to other partners to ensure high-quality communications and alignment of the brand narrative for MURR and NextGen MURR.
• Provide communications support and assist with special events, tours, VIP visits, and conferences.
• Produce and/or assist MURR and NextGen MURR’s leadership team's development of key messaging, speeches, scripts, tours, interviews, presentations, etc.
• Supervise other marketing and communications associate(s) in direct support of MURR and NextGen MURR initiatives, both internal and external.
• Develop and maintain relationships with internal resources, including the Mizzou Marketing and Communication teams including Executive Communications, News and Information, Public Affairs and Media Relations, Digital Service, Social Media and Mizzou Visual Productions to maximize coverage of MURR and NextGen MURR on the local, state and national stage.
• Serve as a brand champion for the University of Missouri in support of MURR and NextGen MURR to ensure consistency in tone and message across all marketing communications and initiatives.
• Work as a strategic partner, representing MURR and NextGen MURR communications and events on university committees, groups and initiatives as needed.
• Maintain positive interpersonal relationships through collaboration and exhibit effective written and oral communications skills.

Shift

Monday - Friday, 8AM - 5PM - some work on weekends and evenings may be needed for events or visitors.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 6 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years of leading and managing communications, preferably in the higher education sector.
• Experience in science writing or a strong background in science
• Ability to translate complex information, including data, research, etc. into easy-to-understand content.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as excellent editing skills.
• Experience supervising a team of employees to accomplish strategic objectives.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks or projects in a fast-moving environment while meeting assigned deadlines.
• Possess a high level of discretion, integrity, accuracy and decision-making ability.
• Experience collaborating in a large organization.
• Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, project management and presentation skills.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $82,000 - $125,000 per year

Grade: GGS 013

University Title: Director of Communications - MU Research Reactor

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Sponsorship Information

Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Other Information

A life-saving operation in the middle of America — the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) — needs you to help guide its future. MURR is expanding its critical cancer-fighting and medical isotope production.

MURR’s reactor is the highest-power university research reactor in the United States, operating at 10 megawatts, 6.5 days a week and 52 weeks a year. The MURR facility enables research across many disciplines – From investigating ancient cultures and how plants respond to their environment, to analyzing industrial materials and developing radiopharmaceuticals that have lifesaving clinical applications. The MURR facility is a reliable resource for researchers, scientists, engineers and students across the country.

Be a part of the future of fighting cancer and saving lives.

Be a part of MURR

Community Information

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours’ drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County’s largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

60562