Job Summary 

The Internal Communications & Publications Team in the University’s Division of University Marketing & Communications seeks a multi-talented editor and writer to support the University’s strategic storytelling platforms.

The Associate Director role calls for an organized and creative managing editor to co-produce a handful of high-profile University publications: Drexel Magazine, EXEL Magazine, President’s Report, annual commencement books, and other occasional projects.

You’re the ideal candidate if you are a versatile writer capable of crafting strategy-informed content that appeals to target audiences across digital and print platforms, and you pride yourself on needing little revision. A capable editor, you easily see how to make a story and publication better, hear what a message is conveying, perceive how it’s likely to be received, and ask how it serves the business need. You have a sharp eye for errors, both in text and graphics, and you know your AP Style. You can lead projects independently, track materials reliably, and keep multiple plates spinning.

This role reports to the Executive Director of Internal Communications & Publications and is a member of the Internal Communications & Publications Team within the Strategic Communications vertical of the Division of University Marketing & Communications.

About the Team: The Strategic Communications vertical is responsible for ensuring an integrated pipeline of brand journalism, internal communications, executive communications and media outreach through the work of three main teams: Internal Communications & Publications, Media Relations and Executive Communications. The Internal Communications & Publications Team operates the University’s owned media channels to elevate reputation and amplify strategic messages among faculty, professional staff, students, parents, alumni and external influencers. The Media Relations Team advises deans and other senior university leaders in their efforts to translate and communicate academic, research and service accomplishments to the University community and to outside media. Executive Communications positions key administrators as thought leaders through op-eds and expert source status, raises the University’s profile through Presidential speaking engagements, and ensures a timely and responsive voice of leadership. Collectively, the Division of University Marketing & Communications employs a collaborative group of 70+ professionals in media relations, social media, internal and alumni communications, creative design, web operations and marketing.

Essential Functions 

• In close collaboration with the Executive Director, the Associate Director oversees all aspects of production of, and serves as lead project manager for, Drexel Magazine and assists in the production of EXEL Magazine and the annual President’s Report.

• Acting as Managing Editor, develops storyboards, researches and writes stories for these publications and edits copy written by staff and freelance writers; identifies, develops and pitches relevant stories that support the University’s strategic plan, key messages, branding and priorities; proofreads and factchecks all publications; coordinates photo and artwork selection; and communicates design feedback.

• In close collaboration with the Executive Director, serves as a liaison with independent contractors and vendors by overseeing assignments and scheduling, managing deadlines, providing feedback, obtaining and tracking invoices for payment, and other projects as assigned.

• Oversees spring production of Drexel’s commencement pamphlets in coordination with colleagues and staff designers. Sets the production calendar, communicates timelines and content expectations with stakeholders, assembles content, and ensures accuracy and on-time delivery.
• Lightly curates and monitors the @DrexelMag Twitter feed.
• May be asked to serve as backup writer on executive messages (infrequent).
• Other incidental duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications 

• A bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, or Equivalent

• 5-10 years professional writing and editing experience with proven project management experience and writing samples demonstrating editorial versatility.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience working in a professional editorial environment or a demonstrated record of producing high-quality editorial content.

• Excellent written communication skills, proficiency writing in a variety of mediums, including web and social, and knowledge of journalistic reporting and fact-checking standards, including Associated Press style.

• Good visual design judgment with an ability to spot inconsistencies in page layouts.

• Tactful communications ability to provide direction and feedback to freelance writers to ensure successful drafts and handle reviews with internal sources and subject experts.

• Track record of successful project management with and comfort in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, leading projects independently.

• Exceptional creativity and attention to detail, plus strong interpersonal, organizational, proofreading and planning skills.

• Conscientious and organized; routinely updates project management tracking sheets, editorial calendars, and story spreadsheets.

• Team player able to collaborate with staff across the University and communicate constructively and diplomatically with colleagues, administrators and faculty.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office required; experience with Mailchimp, photo editing software, InDesign, Asana or SmartSheets, and Sitecore preferred.

Physical Requirements 

• Typically sitting at a desk/table

• Lifting demands ≤ 25lbs 

Location

• Hybrid/Flexible Work Arrangement – Philadelphia, PA 

Additional Information 

This position is classified as exempt, grade L. Compensation for this grade ranges from $62,630 to $93,950 per year. Please note that the offered rate for this position typically aligns with the minimum to midrange of this grade, but it can vary based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.   

We encourage you to explore Drexel's Professional Staff salary structure and Compensation Guidelines & Policies for more details on our compensation framework.  

You can also find valuable information about our benefits in the Benefits Brochure.