How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

This role works jointly with the Center for South Asian Studies (ii.umich.edu/csas) in the International Institute (ii.umich.edu) and Michigan News (news.umich.edu) in the Office of the Vice President for Communications and participates in both units to connect people across the world with a shared commitment to, and interest in, the multiple ways India and the University of Michigan are making an impact in the world together. The South Asia Communications Representative will work collaboratively and creatively to raise awareness and build upon the reputation of the university as a world-class leader in research, expertise, and academics.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Responsibilities*

Michigan News: - 50%

Responsible for writing, pitching and disseminating news releases and faculty expert advisories of interest to media in India and beyond. Duties include: 

• Writing and pitching stories regularly that are geared toward specific audiences.
• Handling U-M South Asia channels such as social media platforms.
• Arranging interviews with faculty experts/researchers for TV, newspaper, news blogs and radio stations in South Asia, especially India. 
• Meeting regularly with the Michigan News global team to strategize communications and coordinate outreach and timing of content. 
• Engaging with faculty experts in South Asia matters for expert advisories, videos, social media, and other methods of outreach.
• Staying abreast of breaking news and ongoing issues in South Asia and around the world. 
• Advising leaders on best communications methods for major announcements and trips abroad. 
• Preparing regular reports to track impact in the news media. 
• Facilitating the dissemination of faculty research and activities in India by liaising with faculty visiting South Asia and the UM India Alumni Association.

Center for South Asian Studies: 

Responsible for managing Center communications to internal audiences, alumni, and donors. Works closely with center leadership and faculty to coordinate and produce high-quality informational media on all South Asia-related activities, both in the region and on campus, which includes:

Center Programs - 30%

• Promoting all CSAS events and activities through a variety of channels.
• Contributing to all CSAS communications, including developing the annual newsletter, marketing materials, and event promotions as well as maintaining related contact data and email groups.
• Writing content for CSAS social media accounts and managing account activity.
• Updating and maintaining the CSAS website in collaboration with II Communications.
• Staying up to date on Center-affiliated student and faculty happenings for potential stories.

Strategic Initiatives - 20%

• Actively seeking out information on South Asia-related activities from partners across campus and writing news articles and other content to raise awareness of those activities. 
• Developing strong relationships at Michigan with colleagues and soliciting information from Center-affiliated faculty and partners.
• Attending lectures and India-related activities across campus to capture and promote U-M work with, in, and about South Asia.
• Developing strategic communication plans across U-M schools involved in teaching, research, engaged learning, and partnerships in South Asia.
• Maintaining strategic and meaningful communications with alumni, donors, and others in the Michigan community beyond the campus.
• Assisting the Director to establish and maintain an Advisory Council at CSAS. 
• Providing administrative support for all aspects of the center?s fundraising efforts.

Required Qualifications*

• A bachelor's degree and at least five years of experience in journalism or public relations.
• Experience working with and a strong knowledge of English-speaking news organizations in India.
• Knowledge of and experience managing social media in South Asia, especially India.
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills, including excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to perform in a self-directed manner within a team-focused framework.
• Excellent time management and organization skills.

Desired Qualifications*

• Knowledge of one or more Indian languages, Hindi preferred.
• Knowledge of higher education systems and environment, through employment either at a university or a related business or organization.
• Experience working with videographers and photographers.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

This position is for a 3 year term-limited appointment with the possibility of renewal after the 3 year term.

The College of Literature, Science, and the Arts seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of our commitments to serve the diverse people of Michigan, fulfill the College's Guiding Principles, and sustain the excellence of LSA. 

To learn more about LSA's Strategic Vision, visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

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