Work With NCI

NCInnovation, Inc. (NCI) is a Research Triangle Park, NC-based 501(c)(3) public-private partnership created to accelerate commercialized innovation from North Carolina’s research universities. Backed by more than $25 million in private philanthropic commitments, NCInnovation uses the interest and income from a $500 million State-funded endowment to maintain regional innovation networks and provide non-dilutive grant funding, mentors, and support services so that North Carolina university proofs-of-concept return value to the communities that create them.

 

Job Summary:

Reporting to the President & CEO, the Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer (CCO) will develop and execute comprehensive communications strategies that elevate the organization’s profile, amplify its mission, and engage its key stakeholders. The CCO will serve as a member of the executive leadership team, driving strategic communications initiatives to enhance NCI’s visibility, influence, and impact with university partners, philanthropic donors, regional stakeholders, state policymakers, media outlets, and the public. The CCO will lead all aspects of the communications, marketing, and media relations functions and coordinate related vendors and service providers.

Responsibilities:

The SVP/Chief Communications Officer will be responsible for the following:

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with NCI’s mission, vision, and statutory responsibilities
• Provide strategic counsel to the CEO, Board of Directors, and other leaders on all communications matters
• Oversee all aspects of internal and external communications, ensuring consistency of messaging and brand identity across various platforms and media

Media Relations and Public Affairs

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, journalists, and others to support press coverage and strengthen NCI’s presence and messaging
• Serve as the organization’s spokesperson, effectively communicating NCI’s initiatives, accomplishments, and advancements to the media and the public
• Monitor trends, news developments, and stakeholder accomplishments to guide proactive media engagement

Marketing and Content Development

• Lead the creation and distribution of compelling content, including press releases, articles, blog posts, social media posts, and multimedia assets, to showcase NCI’s programs, events, grant funding and regional network support services, and thought leadership
• Oversee the management and optimization of NCI’s website and digital platforms to ensure accurate and timely content for a broad base of constituents

Stakeholder Communication & Engagement

• Develop and implement strategies to effectively communicate with NCI’s diverse stakeholder base
• Coordinate regular communication channels, such as newsletters, emails, and webinars, to provide members with updates on activities, events, and opportunities
• Solicit feedback to understand stakeholder needs, preferences, and concerns, and incorporate insights into future communication strategies and initiatives
• Cultivate a sense of community and engagement among NCI stakeholders by facilitating networking opportunities, promoting achievements, and showcasing contributions to the state
• Develop strategies for, and provide leadership to, philanthropic fundraising efforts to sustain NCI’s administration and overhead as required by law
• Support NCI’s legislative affairs initiatives, ensuring consistency in content, messaging, and educational materials for elected/appointed officials

Executive Leadership

• Collaborate with all teams and internal stakeholders to support marketing, communications, and media relations goals
• Develop and monitor budgets and provide appropriate tracking and trending reports in areas of responsibility, including management of consultant and vendor relationships

Requirements:

The CCO must be well organized, flexible, and enjoy the challenges of working in a dynamic organization; demonstrate a high level of professionalism and discretion; and interact with stakeholders at all levels in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while remaining proactive, resourceful, and efficient. The CCO will foster a cooperative work environment while demonstrating the highest standards of moral and ethical conduct. Requires a proven ability to develop and leverage partnerships and relationships; expert written and verbal communication skills; strong decision making; and a proactive attention to detail.

Qualifications:

The SVP/Chief Communications Officer should possess the following qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree required
• Ten years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications, media relations, or public affairs, preferably with some experience in the applied research, higher education, or nonprofit sectors
• Demonstrated track record of developing and executing successful communications strategies that achieve measurable results and impact
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex concepts into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences
• Experience managing media relations, crisis communications, and rapid response efforts in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in digital communications tools and platforms, including social media, web content management systems, and email marketing software
• Proven leadership abilities, with the capacity to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively with internal and external partner

Comp & Benefits:

NCI offers competitive compensation based on experience, to include a comprehensive benefit package with flexible paid time off; employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance; disability; and a 401(k) plan

More Information:

For more information, or to apply for this position, email your cover letter and resume to humanresources@ncinnovation.org