SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
: Job Details :

Job Purpose

The Social Media Manager manages top-level University social platforms and live mascot program for Gardner-Webb University. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in creating and implementing digital and social programs, be a self-starter and results-driven, have strong teamwork, communication, and marketing skills.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

* Manage the social media marketing strategy for the top-level platforms, as well as the live mascot program.

* Execute, document, and schedule organic social content that play to the audiences of each platform and utilize and portray the best of GWU.

* Create and direct high-quality content in written and visual form, including photos, graphics, and videos.

* Review and schedule live mascot appearance request, as well as transporting and accompanying the Live Mascot at events on campus and in the community on an as needed basis.

* Build and nurture positive working relationships with university departments to stay in the know on signature events, exhibitions, special projects to promote/support content relevant to our audience.

* Work with other communicators across campus to ensure all university social media channels are following best practices and working to grow their audiences

* Communicate in a professional but uniquely social media voice for the University, advocating for Gardner-Webb and answering questions as they arise when appropriate.

* Implement social media SEO tactics that align with our keyword and SEO strategies.

* Source user-generated content from social media ambassadors (GWU alumni, professors, current students, and influencers) for cross-promotional opportunities.

* Serve as a member of the emergency communications team by identifying threats, sharing content developed by University Relations/Creative Services, monitoring sentiment, documenting posts, and reporting results.

* Maintain university social media guidelines, as well as provide recommendations, training, and support on best practices for social media and digital engagement for campus communicators on an as needed basis.

* Analyze and closely monitor social accounts, campaigns, and posts to determine efficacy, make real-time changes to improve reach and focus, and add to the long-term success of social media accounts.

* Create, maintain, and regularly share detailed analytics of social platforms and progress toward goals

* Track trends and conduct competitive analysis of other university content and social media channels.

* Strategize a sustainable balance of actionable, shareable, engaging, cutting-edge content per channel that builds and strengthens the University's audiences

Some evening and weekend work will be required.

Required Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university

* 2-5 years related experience in social media management

* Advanced knowledge of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok.

* Desire to explore emerging technologies and trends

* Ability to evaluate analytics and summarize effectiveness of content

* Excellent short burst writing and editing skills

* Demonstrated ability to produce creative and on brand media

* Valid Driver's License

* Ability to work both independently and as a team member

Preferred Qualifications

* Previous work in a nonprofit or higher education environment

* Previous experience with live animals

* Graphic design and related Adobe CC design experience

* Familiarity with social media scheduling software

* Photo and Video creation and editing capabilities

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should complete the application and include a letter of interest, rsum, and names and contact information for at least three professional references with their submission.

Gardner-Webb University (gardner-webb.edu) is a coeducational, residential, private, historically Baptist, Christian institution, located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville-Spartanburg. The University offers 80+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 3,000 students. GWU is a Carnegie-classified Doctoral/Professional University. In 2023, Gardner-Webb was home to students from 93 counties in North Carolina, 44 US states, and 43 foreign countries. GWU is a NCAA Division I institution with 22 athletic teams and 460 student-athletes.