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POSITION SPECIFICS
The Penn State College of Medicine, Marketing and Communications in Hershey, PA is seeking a strategic, versatile, and dynamic Executive Communications Specialist (job title: Marketing and Communications Specialist) to support the Dean and executive leadership team with compelling science writing, impactful messaging, and high-level executive communications. This key role blends scientific fluency with creative storytelling to elevate the College’s voice, visibility, and reputation among internal and external audiences.
The Executive Communications Specialist will lead the development of speeches, presentations, strategic plans, internal messaging, and thought leadership opportunities that reflect the mission, priorities, and voice of the Dean and College leadership. This position plays a critical role in advancing the institution’s reputation in research, education, and health care by crafting clear, credible, and purpose-driven communications that resonate with faculty, staff, students, donors, and national audiences.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead writing, research, and editing of executive-level communications, including correspondence, speeches, board presentations, and public remarks.
- Develop and execute integrated communications strategies aligned with the Dean’s vision and the College’s strategic priorities.
- Serve as a primary content strategist and liaison for messaging on key platforms including digital, print, social media, and events.
- Partner with University and Penn State Health communications to elevate the College’s research and academic excellence across local and national media.
- Identify reputational risks and provide communication counsel to executive leaders.
- Support major initiatives including the College’s strategic plan, fundraising campaigns, and high-profile institutional announcements.
- Contribute social media content on behalf of the Dean, including building visibility on platforms such as LinkedIn.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific or medical topics into clear, engaging content for diverse audiences.
- Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
- Proven experience navigating complex stakeholder environments with tact, confidentiality, and strategic foresight.
Preferred:
- Master’s degree or PhD in a biomedical, public health, science communication, or related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience developing communications strategies for leadership in higher education, academic medicine, or a research-intensive institution.
- Experience supporting executive leadership in communications within academic medicine or a health care system.
- Familiarity with publication design, digital storytelling, and social media best practices for leadership engagement.
Why Penn State College of Medicine?
Join a mission-driven institution at the forefront of medical research, education, and community health. At Penn State College of Medicine, we believe powerful stories—and the science behind them—can shape the future of medicine. Your work will amplify our impact.
Ready to tell our story?
Apply now and help shape the voice of Penn State College of Medicine.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $68,200.00 - $102,300.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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