UMass Amherst

Director for Issues Management

UMass Amherst

300 Massachusetts Ave, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
Full-TimeDepends on ExperienceSenior LevelMasters
Job Description

Welcome to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, a leading public research institution located in the beautiful Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. As our university continues to grow and evolve, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director for Issues Management to join our team.The Director for Issues Management will play a crucial role in proactively identifying and addressing potential challenges and issues that may impact the university's reputation and operations. This individual will serve as a key strategic advisor to senior leadership and collaborate with various departments to develop and implement effective solutions.We are looking for a highly skilled and strategic professional with a strong background in issues management, crisis communication, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication and leadership skills, as well as the ability to think critically and act decisively in fast-paced and high-pressure situations.If you are passionate about higher education and have a proven track record of successfully managing complex issues, we invite you to consider this exciting opportunity to make a significant impact at UMass Amherst. Join us in shaping the future of our university and community.

  1. Proactively identify potential challenges and issues that may impact the university's reputation and operations.
  2. Develop and implement strategies to effectively manage and mitigate these challenges and issues.
  3. Serve as a key strategic advisor to senior leadership on issues management and crisis communication.
  4. Collaborate with various departments to develop and implement solutions to address potential issues.
  5. Monitor and analyze media coverage and public sentiment to identify emerging issues and recommend appropriate actions.
  6. Act as the primary point of contact for media inquiries related to sensitive and controversial issues.
  7. Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members.
  8. Plan and execute crisis communication drills and training for university staff.
  9. Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in issues management, crisis communication, and stakeholder engagement.
  10. Foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and open communication within the university community.
  11. Lead and mentor a team of professionals to effectively manage issues and crises.
  12. Represent the university in external meetings and events related to issues management.
  13. Partner with other university departments to ensure consistency and alignment in messaging and communication strategies.
  14. Develop and maintain issue management protocols and procedures.
  15. Prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership on current and potential issues and their impact on the university.
Where is this job?
This job is located at 300 Massachusetts Ave, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
Job Qualifications
  • Strong Communication Skills: The Director For Issues Management At Umass Amherst Must Possess Excellent Written And Verbal Communication Skills To Effectively Communicate With Stakeholders, Media, And University Leadership During Times Of Crisis Or Controversy.

  • Experience In Issues Management: This Role Requires Significant Experience In Managing Complex And Sensitive Issues In A Higher Education Setting. The Ideal Candidate Should Have A Proven Track Record Of Successfully Navigating And Resolving Issues That May Impact The University's Reputation And Operations.

  • Crisis Management Expertise: The Director For Issues Management Should Have A Thorough Understanding Of Crisis Management Principles And Be Able To Develop And Implement Effective Strategies To Mitigate Potential Risks And Protect The University's Brand.

  • Collaborative And Diplomatic Approach: The Director For Issues Management Will Need To Work Closely With Various Departments, Stakeholders, And External Parties To Gather Information, Assess Risks, And Develop Response Plans. This Individual Must Have Strong Interpersonal Skills And The Ability To Build And Maintain Positive Relationships.

  • Knowledge Of Higher Education Policies And Regulations: Familiarity With The Policies And Regulations That Govern Higher Education Institutions Is Crucial For This Role. The Director For Issues Management Should Have A Deep Understanding Of Relevant Laws And Regulations To Ensure The University's Compliance And Mitigate Potential Legal Risks.

Required Skills
  • Strategic Planning

  • Conflict Resolution

  • Public speaking

  • Community Outreach

  • Media Relations

  • Team Leadership

  • Risk assessment

  • Stakeholder engagement

  • Crisis Communication

  • Reputation management

  • Data

  • Issue Monitoring

Soft Skills
  • Communication

  • Conflict Resolution

  • Leadership

  • Time management

  • creativity

  • Critical thinking

  • Attention to detail

  • Teamwork

  • Adaptability

  • Problem-Solving

Compensation

According to JobzMall, the average salary range for a Director for Issues Management in 300 Massachusetts Ave, Amherst, MA 01003, USA is between $90,000 to $150,000 per year. This may vary depending on the specific company, experience, and qualifications of the individual.

Additional Information
UMass Amherst is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Required LanguagesEnglish
Job PostedDecember 17th, 2024
Apply BeforeJuly 20th, 2025
This job posting is from a verified source. 
Reposted

Apply with Video Cover Letter Add a warm greeting to your application and stand out!

About UMass Amherst

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public research and land-grant university in Amherst, Massachusetts. It is the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system. UMass Amherst has an annual enrollment of approximately 1,300 faculty members and more than 30,000 students.

Frequently asked questions

Get interviewed today!

JobzMall is the world‘ s largest video talent marketplace.It‘s ultrafast, fun, and human.

Get Started