Assistant Director of Communications, Public Safety

Assistant Director Of Communications

Yale University seeks a dynamic and strategic communications professional to join its Public Safety team as the Assistant Director of Communications. Reporting to both the Head of Public Safety and the Associate Vice President for Communications in the Office of Public Affairs & Communications (OPAC), this individual will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the department's communications strategy, ensuring clear, effective, and timely messaging on matters related to campus safety, security, and emergency management.

The Assistant Director will serve as the primary communications liaison on matters of Public Safety and Security within the university and with external stakeholders, including local law enforcement, media, and the broader New Haven community. The Assistant Director of Communications will lead efforts to promote a culture of safety and preparedness while managing communications in partnership with the Office of Public Affairs & Communications during crisis situations.

This individual will work with various internal departments to ensure that the university's public safety messages align with its mission, values, and priorities. This position is onsite with occasional evenings and weekends.

Strategic Communication Leadership: Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy for the Department of Public Safety, ensuring the dissemination of accurate, transparent, and timely information regarding safety and security across campus.

Crisis Communications: Serve as a key advisor and communications lead during emergencies and critical incidents, coordinating messaging and working closely with senior university leadership, media, and community partners in the Office of Public Affairs & Communications to provide clear and consistent updates.

Media and External Relations: Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. Act as the primary point of contact for media inquiries related to public safety incidents and policies, ensuring the university's perspective is clearly communicated.

Community Engagement and Education: Design and implement communications campaigns that engage the Yale community in public safety initiatives, including crime prevention, emergency preparedness, and safety awareness. Work to build trust and foster positive relationships between Public Safety and the campus community.

Digital and Social Media Strategy: Oversee the department's digital presence, including social media platforms, to ensure that public safety messages are disseminated promptly, effectively, and engaging. Monitor digital channels to assess public sentiment and address concerns promptly.

Internal Communication: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure the effective flow of information regarding public safety policies, training, and updates. Support initiatives that enhance communication between Public Safety and other departments within the university.

Performance Measurement and Reporting: Track and evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies through metrics such as engagement, media coverage, and feedback from the campus community. Regularly review communication plans to incorporate lessons learned and emerging best practices.

Required Skills and Abilities:

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences on a timely basis.

Strong media relations expertise, including managing inquiries, building relationships, and crafting effective press materials. Proven experience managing complex, high-stakes communication efforts, including crisis management and media relations.

Demonstrated experience in crisis communications, including the ability to work under pressure and make decisions in fast-paced environments.

Familiarity with social media platforms and digital communication tools.

Ability to collaborate with colleagues across a wide range of departments and divisions to achieve strategic objectives. Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and mentoring staff to meet organizational goals.

Preferred Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of public safety protocols in a higher education setting.

Familiarity with higher education culture and the unique safety concerns of university communities.

Experience with emergency notification systems and digital alert platforms.

Experience with managing social media platforms and digital communication tools.