Senior Communications Specialist-Executive and Internal Communications

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute integrated communications strategies that elevate the voice of the CIO with both internal and external audiences.
• Serve as lead writer, drafting and editing communications on behalf of the CIO.
• Prepare remarks, presentations, articles/stories, and talking points that showcase leadership and expand awareness of ITS strategy.
• Help deliver and support quarterly departmental meetings by developing presentation content and talking points, preparing speakers, and coordinating logistics.
• Ensure messages are aligned with the CIO's voice and UVA ITS priorities, including the ITS Strategic Plan and Culture Foundations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to plan and support executive visibility and engagement during key events and initiatives.
• Draft and edit engaging executive-level communications, including talking points, emails, web content, presentations, social posts, and internal messaging.
• Proactively plan communication strategy and identify emerging opportunities, as well as support unexpected events with timely, audience-appropriate messaging.
• Maintain and update the CIO website and ITS intranet with timely, relevant content, and plan for future content strategy.
• Support development of digital, presentation, and multimedia content for executive communications.
• Identify opportunities to elevate CIO and ITS visibility through speaking engagements and thought leadership.
• Monitor trends in higher education and IT to inform messaging.
• Support internal campaigns that promote engagement, awareness, and culture.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 8+ years of experience in communications, supporting executive leaders and internal communications.
• Exceptional writing and storytelling ability, with understanding of tone, audience, and strategic framing.
• Experience proactively driving and planning integrated communication strategies.
• Experience developing leadership presentations and talking points for top-level executives.
• Proven ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, engaging content.
• Strong interpersonal and listening skills, with ability to capture leadership tone and respond to feedback.
• Experience leading communications for internal events or leadership visibility efforts.
• Experience managing web content and fluency using content management systems (Drupal).
• Proficiency with email platforms, social media tools, and visual storytelling.
• Highly organized, accountable, self-motivated, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Discretion and professionalism when working with confidential or sensitive topics.
• Collaborative workstyle and ability to earn and maintain trust of leadership and colleagues.

Nice to Have

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, English, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field.
• Experience supporting change communications or organizational initiatives.
• Background in communications within higher education, public sector, or technology.
• Understanding of digital accessibility and usability best practices.
• Confident executive presence and ability to coach leaders on delivery, tone, and message.
• Ability to simplify complex topics for broad audiences, combining narrative craft with visual storytelling instincts.
• Experience with design tools such as Canva and Adobe Lightroom and delivering graphics for presentations and social media.

Qualifications

• Educational background including a high school diploma or equivalent; preferred bachelor's degree in relevant fields.

Benefits & Perks

• Salary range of $85,000 - $95,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
• Hybrid work schedule: 3 days per week on-site in Charlottesville, VA.
• Potential for extension based on funding.