Social Media Strategist

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Here is what we offer:* Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support

• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! https://hr.howard.edu/benefits\-wellness BASIC FUNCTION: The Social Media Strategist plays a critical role in elevating, monitoring, and protecting the Howard University brand across digital platforms. Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Multimedia and Digital Operations in the Office of University Communications (OUC), this position manages the creation and execution of social media calendars, develops content tailored for key audiences, performs social listening and sentiment analysis, and provides governance support for the University’s network of official accounts. This strategist is both a hands-on creator and a strategic partner, working closely with the office of University of Communication leadership, academic and administrative offices, and digital content teams to ensure consistent storytelling, brand protection, and innovation across platforms. SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY: May supervise part-time student employees, fellows, or interns. NATURE AND SCOPE:* Internal contacts: Campus Partners including faculty, staff, students, administrators

• External contacts: social media platforms, influencers, media, and the public.

The strategist is expected to operate in a highly visible, high-volume digital environment while ensuring the University’s online reputation and brand integrity remain strong. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:* Identify and execute strategies to build Howard University’s visibility and enhance its reputation through innovative use of social platforms.

• Create and maintain comprehensive social media calendars across flagship channels.
• Assist with the on-boarding of new University social media accounts, ensuring adherence to governance guidelines.
• Develop, plan, and implement creative programs, campaigns, and engagement strategies to grow audiences and increase impact.
• Provide timely and accurate social media reporting that highlights KPIs, insights, and recommendations.
• Support governance tracking, including account audits, policy adherence, and training.
• Collaborate with Office of University Communications leadership and staff to ensure alignment between institutional priorities and digital storytelling.
• Recommend new tools, platforms, and technologies (including generative AI) that advance University objectives.
• Provide training, workshops, or consultative support to internal stakeholders.
• Manage social communities across all official platforms and foster positive engagement.
• Support crisis communications management by monitoring trends and providing timely recommendations.

CORE COMPETENCIES: Knowledge* Advanced understanding of major social media platforms, analytics tools, and content formats, with expertise in tailoring content for different audiences.

• Strong knowledge of online reputation management, governance best practices, and sentiment analysis.
• Understanding of how generative AI, emerging platforms, and advanced creative tools can be leveraged in higher ed and brand storytelling.

Skills* Intermediate to Expert-level proficiency in Canva and strong video editing skills for social platforms (Reels, Shorts, TikTok).

• Demonstrated ability to design and edit content using professional software (Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, or similar).
• Strong writing skills with a clear understanding of audience, tone, nuance, and detail (work in multicultural or higher education highly preferred)
• Creative thinking to help conceptualize campaigns and content that inspire audiences and attract media attention.
• Strong project management, organization, and reporting skills with a proven ability to juggle multiple deadlines.

Abilities* Ability to work under pressure and consistently meet deadlines, including quick-turn requests.

• Strong judgment in addressing sensitive issues, crisis situations, and community management.
• Demonstrated ability to assess social performance, identify opportunities, and deliver actionable insights.
• Initiative and creativity in generating new content ideas and campaign approaches.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, highly visible, and fast-paced digital environment.
• Results-oriented, resourceful, and enthusiastic with a proactive, solutions-first approach.
• Willingness to work nonstandard hours when required for events, emergencies, or priority campaigns

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:* Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations, or a related field.

• 2–3 years of progressive experience in digital communications, social media management, or online marketing.
• Required: high-level to expert proficiency in Canvaand social-native video editing.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-volume environment and manage multiple projects.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:* Hands-on experience managing a highly active, high-reach social platform(university, corporate, entertainment, or public figure).

• Demonstrated knowledge or high interest of generative AI tools and technologies for content creation.
• Intermediate to advanced skills in higher-end editing software (Adobe Premiere or similar).
• Experience with social media scheduling software (Meltwater, Sprout, Hootsuite, Loomly, Later, or similar).
• Prior social media experience in higher education, large organizations, or public-facing institutions preferred but not required.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure Expected Salary Range: $63,636 - $70,000