Writer/Editor

Writer/Editor

The University of Tampa Office of Public Information and Publications has a position available for a University Writer/Editor. The position writes and edits feature stories, news announcements, profiles and various publications in support of the University's mission, and to ultimately illustrate UT's vibrant community and the impact of UT students, faculty and staff. The position primarily coordinates the production of the alumni magazine including theme conceptualization, feature writing, editing and layout — and also writes and edits various campus publications, including news stories and other collateral material in an effort to enhance the University's public profile. 

This position enhances the University's public profile by promoting The University of Tampa brand through messaging and visual identity primarily in print communications. The position serves as the main University writer and editor for all external publications and most internal publications.

The position reports to the Director of Public Information and Publications, and oversees one position, the Public Information Assistant. 

Responsibilities
1.Coordinates the publication of the UT Journal, a 52–72-page magazine published three times a year, with a primary audience of UT alumni.
2. Work closely with the art director in producing the UT Journal.
3. Conceive story ideas, conduct research, interview, fact check, revising and editing, tell a story that appeals to a diverse audience. 
4. Creating production schedule for the alumni magazine.
5. Long-range planning of future messaging and stories.
6. Conceptualizing issues and communicating institutional goals through themes and stories.
7. Assigns stories, which includes contracting with and editing freelance submissions, coordinating with alumni writers, and assisting internal contributors with story ideas and writing.
8. Suggests ideas for photos, illustrations and graphics to accompany stories. Assists in acquiring submitted artwork. 
9. Manages freelance budget. 
10. Primary writer and editor for all external and many internal publications, such as the faculty/staff newsletter, the president's quarterly report, the commencement program and Development solicitations and invitations. 
11. Coordinates press release writing and distribution. 
12. Regularly assists clients from offices throughout the University on their promotional and publication projects, and must work cooperatively to enhance publication materials. 
13. Regularly collaborates with other staff to share content when appropriate.
14. Writes occasional web content, proofreads and fact-checks various University publications, and is the primary keeper of guidelines of University writing style.
15. Collaborates and brainstorms with Public Information staff on messaging campaigns.
16. Occasionally assists the director with media relations. 
17. Manage the UT Journal online presence on the UT website, ut.edu.
18. Contribute to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures and backgrounds.

Requirements
1.  Ability to identify stories that reflect the University's strategic objectives, and to write compelling copy that advances the communication goals of the University. Demonstrated experience in non-fiction writing, principally journalism/reporting.
2.  Proven ability to manage and complete various elements of a publication project, including writing, editing and layout conceptualization. Ability to recognize and generate story ideas, and conceptualize "themes" for the alumni magazine.
3.  Ability and eagerness to recognize opportunities and share or "re-purpose" content for use in other publications, such as online, and admissions publications.
4.  Experience in media, advertising or public relations.
5.  Ability to work collegially with internal and external "clients." Ability to work with a range of professionals, including consultants, printers, freelancers and other communication professionals.
6.  Ability to do internal research to gather information for various publications projects. Ability to conduct thorough interviews and write in-depth, multifaceted feature articles.
7.  Ability to work proactively and independently, and to prioritize and work on multiple projects simultaneously.
8.  Experience working in print production, mailing, distribution and fulfillment, and experience in supervising photo shoots is valuable.
9. Copywriting and copyediting experience critical. Ability to proofread and edit efficiently with regard to grammar, content and style, including University standards. Working knowledge of AP style is preferred.
10. Ability to set and follow production schedules. Must be able to set and meet deadlines.
11. Knowledge of methods and techniques in publishing desired, as well as ability to identify trends in publishing. Willingness to integrate and cross-promote printed publications with online vehicles.
12. Ability to think conceptually, brainstorm, and suggest ideas that solve particular institutional messaging challenges.
13. Experience managing, mentoring and motivating employees. 

Additional Qualifications
1.  Bachelor's degree in English, mass communications, journalism, creative writing, or related discipline and at least four years of experience of working in the field, preferably in higher education.
2.  Experience producing award-winning publications.
3.  Exceptional ability to work in a team environment.
4.  News writing, feature writing and copyediting experience.
5.  Excellent proofreading abilities.
6.  Understanding of layout and/or graphic design.
7.  Ability to establish priorities and manage time wisely.
8.  Proven management experience. 
9.  Ability to work very occasionally on evenings, weekends and holidays.
10.  Knowledge of methods and techniques in publishing desired.
11. Experience working in higher education setting, and knowledge of issues and trends in higher education a plus, but not required. Understanding of fundraising and alumni relations goals within higher education also a plus.
12. Experience with both Mac and PC platforms and associated software.
13. Knowledge of or the ability to learn quickly University of Tampa software programs such as Workday, Microsoft Office and Constant Contact.
14. Willingness to embrace new technologies and innovative organizational practices.

For further details and to apply, please visit our website at www.ut.edu/jobs

Applicants should be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume.

The University of Tampa is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.