Publications Director

Job Description

For over 160 years, the University of Washington has been a hub for learning, innovation, problem solving and community building. Supporting this legacy and important public mission—with the goal of making the UW the world’s greatest public university, as measured by positive impact—guides everything we do in University Advancement. Bringing together development; alumni and stakeholder engagement; marketing and communications; and advancement operations, we advance the UW’s impact by developing meaningful connections that foster pride, advocacy and philanthropic support.     

   

Alumni and Stakeholder Engagement (ASE), working in collaborative partnerships with the UW Alumni Association, UW Retirement Association and the University Book Store, fulfills its mission to advance higher education in the state of Washington and to support the UW through impactful, broad-based engagement with alumni, students, retirees and friends of the University. This starts with creating a culture of belonging within our organization that values the diverse experiences and expertise of our team members, allowing everyone to thrive and to contribute their unique talents as we strive to achieve our shared goals.   

 

Alumni & Stakeholder Engagement has an exciting opening for a Publications Director. This is a full-time permanent position. 

 

The Publications Director leads the editorial vision, strategy and production of publications for the UW Alumni Association (UWAA) and Alumni & Stakeholder Engagement (ASE), including the award-winning UW Magazine. As the senior editorial leader, this role shapes stories that highlight the impact of the University of Washington and its alumni while maintaining excellence across print and digital publications. 

 

The Director leads a team of editorial and creative professionals and oversees the operations, budget and strategic direction of the Publications unit. Working closely with university leaders, communications partners, advancement colleagues, alumni and freelance contributors, this role combines editorial leadership, people management and stakeholder engagement to strengthen connections across the UW community. 

 

What You Will Do 

 

Leadership and Team Management (continuously overlaid in all duties)  

• Oversee the operations, budget and strategic direction of the Publications unit. 

• Supervise and develop editorial and creative professionals, setting priorities, allocating resources and fostering professional growth. 

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, curiosity and editorial excellence. 

• Develop and implement strategic plans for Publications initiatives and partner with the Assistant Vice President for Marketing & Communications to support the UWAA Board of Trustees UW Magazine Committee. 

 

Story Development, Writing & Editing (40%)  

• Lead the development, reporting, writing and editing of feature stories, profiles and long-form content for UW Magazine and other Publications initiatives. 

• Serve as lead editor for high-impact stories, ensuring excellence in storytelling and editorial quality. 

• Build relationships across the University, alumni community and advancement organization to identify and develop compelling stories. 

• Translate complex topics, research and alumni impact into engaging, accessible content for a broad audience. 

 

Editorial Vision (25%)  

• Serve as editor for publications, including UW Magazine and Viewpoint, setting editorial direction and maintaining high standards of quality. 

• Define and uphold the publication's editorial voice while balancing institutional priorities with editorial integrity. 

• Lead editorial planning and content strategy to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality publications. 

 

Editorial Production Workflow and Impact Measurement (20%)  

• Oversee the end-to-end editorial process, including content planning, contributor workflows, production schedules and publication delivery. 

• Establish clear processes and accountability across a collaborative, matrixed environment. 

• Monitor audience engagement and use insights to inform content strategy and continuous improvement. 

 

Story Activation: Programming & Engagement Collaboration (15%)  

• Partner with marketing and engagement leaders to extend the reach and impact of editorial content through events, programs and audience engagement opportunities. 

• Identify opportunities to translate stories into live and virtual experiences, including panels, speaker events and thematic programming. 

• Contribute editorial perspective to campaigns, programming and audience experiences to strengthen engagement with the UW community. 

• Other duties as assigned   

 

Required Qualifications  

To be considered for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification and/or registration. 

 

Minimum Qualifications 

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications will not be forwarded to the Hiring Department. 

Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications or related field AND 5 years of experience in editorial fields, publications and marketing or related field.  

 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience leading, managing and developing professional staff, teams and/or complex projects, preferably within an editorial, publishing, communications, or creative environment. 

• Experience in journalism, publishing, editorial leadership, reporting, writing, editing, or related content-focused roles. 

• Experience identifying, managing and working with freelance writers, photographers, designers and other external contributors. 

• Demonstrated experience building relationships and partnering with a variety of stakeholders to develop and deliver content, programs, or communications initiatives. 

• Experience managing budgets and operational resources. 

• Knowledge of alumni relations, advancement, fundraising, or engagement programs within higher education, nonprofit, or membership-based organizations. 

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. 

• Ability to lift 20 pounds regularly and up to 40 pounds occasionally for event setup and tear down. 

 

What You Can Expect 

• Hybrid-work schedule with three days in the office and two days eligible for telework.   

• Cubicle/open workspace environment that may result in higher noise levels and visual distractions.  

• Ability to work evening and weekend hours, as necessary, on short or limited notice, including staffing UWAA and ASE events on a quarterly basis  

• Ability to travel and attend events, meetings and programs scheduled on evenings and weekends or off-campus. 

 

 

#UWUAJOBS 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$112,500.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$127,104.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.