The Media Lab is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and highly creative communications expert to head the Communications group at the Lab.

Responsibilities
Serve as strategist and manager for the full range of Media Lab communications–both internal and external–that promote the Lab’s unique anti-disciplinary culture, and share the Lab’s mission and achievements with the world. Integrate digital and print communications with top-tier press management to maximize global impact. Work closely with Lab director and faculty to publicize a wide range of new initiatives and disruptive technologies.
Manage a communications staff of five.

Specific tasks include:

• Work with Lab director, faculty, and administrative staff on conceptualizing, writing and disseminating key messaging on the Lab’s research agenda.
• Stay abreast of emerging communication technologies and trends to ensure that the Lab maximizes its use of these channels, and best integrates them with traditional top-tier media outreach.
• With assistant director and digital media specialist, oversee editorial content on the main Web pages and Lab blog.
• With press liaison and writer, develop press releases from the Lab, and review releases from sponsors and collaborating organizations.
• Work with communications staff, Lab director, and faculty on creating Lab messaging for numerous constituencies, including the public, press, member companies, donors and prospects, alumni, and internal community.
• Stay informed on newest research in areas of importance to the Lab, including synthetic biology, environmental engineering, personal robots, digital currencies, user interfaces, big data, and the intersection of science and design.
• Work with internal team and external designers on maintaining standards for the Lab’s strong visual identity and branding.
• Work with development and member relations staff on developing materials to use with prospective and existing sponsors.
• Help prepare talking points and edit speech transcripts for publication.
• Serve as advisor to the Lab director and faculty on communication strategies for sensitive issues.
• Art direct photographers, videographers, and graphic designers for a wide range of materials that will support the Lab’s communications outreach.
• Work with events team to conceptualize and develop themes and materials for major events.
• Work with the Media Lab faculty on writing and editing special publications.
• Serve as the Lab’s primary liaison to external public relations firm for special projects.
• Oversee Media Lab content for Institute-wide initiatives and publications, including annual Report to the President and materials for the Lab’s Visiting Committee.
• Serve as primary Lab decision-maker on fair use issues and copyright permissions.
• Serve as the primary communications liaison to other offices and departments throughout MIT.