Communication Strategist

Job Purpose

The Communication Strategist role plays a pivotal role in KAUST communications strategy implementation. Operating at the intersection of relationship management, strategic planning, and hands-on execution, this multifaceted role is instrumental in fostering engagement with key stakeholders and implementing effective communications.

Collaborating closely with designated business units or assigned stakeholders, the role crafts and executes comprehensive marketing communication strategies tailored to meet KAUST's operational goals and brand positioning. Drawing upon extensive communications expertise, the role serves as the primary liaison between business units and specialist teams in GBC, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives while delivering integrated communication plans and activities.

Additionally, the role contributes to positioning and reputation management efforts by collaborating with designated business units or assigned stakeholders to identify and implement priority initiatives aimed at enhancing KAUST's standing.

Central to the role's effectiveness is the establishment of strong, trusted relationships with KAUST stakeholders and GBC specialist teams. By fostering open communication and collaboration, the Communication Strategist facilitates the exchange of insights and ideas, garnering collective support for initiatives.

Major Accountabilities

Collaborate with various business units and stakeholders to comprehend and articulate communication activity requirements.

Develop comprehensive marketing communication tactical plans aligned with the University strategy objectives, brand positioning and target audience needs.

Engage closely with stakeholders, GBC internal teams, digital teams, and creative partners, as needed, to execute campaigns, projects, and initiatives seamlessly.

Facilitate effective communication and coordination among stakeholders to ensure alignment and smooth execution of communication strategies.

Utilize insights from stakeholders and market research to refine and optimize marketing communication plans for maximum impact and effectiveness with target audiences..

Monitor and evaluate the performance of communication initiatives, providing insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.

Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in marketing communication to enhance effectiveness and innovation in strategies and tactics.

Implement a consultative approach to engage University partners and division teams to align and execute activity.

Developing workplans and managing expectations.

Manage stakeholders, including regular reporting, monitoring activity and owned channels, escalation of issues.

A commitment to collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement, especially relating to reaching and engaging audiences.

Fostering strong value-adding relationships to share ideas and leverage efficiencies where identified.

Coordinate, draft, and deliver communications, content, and assets across various channels.

Develop compelling and impactful messaging that resonates with target audiences and effectively communicates the value proposition of KAUST offerings.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure consistency and coherence in messaging across all communication channels.

Utilize a variety of communication channels, including digital platforms, print media, social media, and events, to reach and engage target audiences effectively.

Ensure that all communications and content adhere to brand guidelines and reflect the University's values, tone, and style.

Work with embedded resources to manage content on their social media channels and websites as needed.

Manage flagship or strategic University events, campaigns and activations as identified and as required.

Conceptualization, planning, approvals, execution

Developing collateral as required.

Working with stakeholders to provide on-the-ground event support.

Manage post-event evaluation and reporting.

Other duties as assigned by the Marketing and Communications Manager

Person Requirements

Competencies

Demonstrated track record of achievement in developing and executing integrated brand or product marketing campaigns across channels.

Stakeholder management skills; and ability to develop positioning and communications strategies to meet business objectives; through building relationships with stakeholders to understand strategic needs, and exercising influence to gain buy-in.

Strong analytical skills; including the ability to evaluate performance metrics, and elicit insights to optimize campaigns or activity.

Demonstrated ability to write high-quality audience-facing communications to meet objectives.

Project management skills, particularly in the delivery of communication projects, marketing collateral, content marketing, or campaigns.

High-level oral communication, interpersonal, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Demonstrated experience using research and data to inform communications strategy development.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or journalism; Master's degree preferred.

Experience

6+ years of experience in a marketing or communications-related role

Excellent proofreading and editing skills with strong attention to detail, grammar, and spelling.

Knowledge of Google Analytics and social media dashboards such as Hootsuite.