Director, Communications (Issues/Crisis)

The University of Southern California (USC) is seeking an experienced and strategic Director, Communications – Issues/Crisis to lead communications strategies that protect and strengthen the university's reputation during complex, sensitive, and high-profile situations. This role on the University Communications & Marketing team is ideal for a seasoned communications leader with expertise in issues management, crisis communications, media relations, internal communications, and executive counsel.

The Director anticipates emerging reputational risks, develops proactive communications strategies, and serves as a trusted advisor to university leadership during sensitive and rapidly evolving situations.

• Lead university-wide issues management and crisis communications strategies to protect USC's reputation and ensure timely, coordinated responses.
• Anticipate emerging issues through media monitoring, risk assessment, and scenario planning; develop proactive strategies and response protocols.
• Serve as a senior communications advisor to university leadership, partnering closely with the Office of General Counsel and other stakeholders on sensitive institutional matters.
• Direct crisis communications, including the development of holding statements, key messages, talking points, FAQs, and executive communications.
• Serve as a university spokesperson and Public Information Officer, as appropriate, during high-profile issues and crises.
  

• Develop and oversee media relations strategies for sensitive or potentially adverse coverage, maintaining trusted relationships with journalists and media outlets.
• Advise and prepare university leaders and subject-matter experts for high-stakes media engagement.
• Monitor coverage and emerging trends to assess reputational risks and inform strategic recommendations.
  

• Lead and develop communications staff and cross-functional teams, establishing clear priorities and accountability.
• Oversee crisis communications protocols, resources, budgets, and external partners to strengthen institutional preparedness.
• Build relationships across USC's schools, departments, and administrative units to support coordinated communications and effective crisis response.
• Continually listen and learn to understand the complex nature of a large research university and its evolving needs.
  

• Bachelor's degree or a combination of education and experience equivalent to the required degree.
• Five (5) years of professional experience in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
• Management experience in journalism and public relations.
• Demonstrated experience leading strategic communications initiatives, including high-profile issues management and media relations.
• Strong writing, judgment, and ability to advise senior stakeholders on complex communications matters.
  

• Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Affairs, or a related field.
• Seven (7) or more years of progressively responsible communications experience, including issues management, crisis communications, or reputation management.
• Communications management experience within higher education or another large, complex, mission-driven organization.
• Experience advising senior executives and coordinating communications during high-profile or sensitive situations.
• Experience partnering with legal counsel and other stakeholders on reputational, regulatory, labor, or public policy issues.
• Demonstrated success leading communications teams, managing media relationships, and strengthening crisis preparedness.
  

• Notice of Non-discrimination
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• Digital Accessibility

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