Senior Communications Officer, UMKC's Innovation Center

UMKC's Innovation Center

UMKC Innovation Center (UMKC IC) is seeking a collaborative and creative Senior Communications Officer who is passionate about data-driven storytelling and ready to amplify our mission and community impact. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in collaborative environments and enjoys turning complex information into clear, engaging stories. This role brings expertise across programs while leading strategic communications, managing internal and external messaging, media, and shaping compelling narratives and reports that highlight organizational outcomes.

The Senior Communications Officer provides primary communications support for the UMKC IC pillars. This role ensures communications for each program are clear, consistent, and aligned with both program goals and the broader UMKC IC brand. The Communications Officer collaborates closely with program teams, the UMKC IC Marketing team, liaises with the UMKC Marketing and Communications Department, and external partners to deliver effective, timely communications that support program impact and visibility. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead the development and implementation of communication strategies and campaigns that support UMKC IC's goals and mission across a variety of audiences: UMKC IC team, community entrepreneurs, UMKC faculty, staff and alumni; coordinate campaigns with UMKC Marketing and Communications department.
• Foster an internal communications culture, ensure staff are aligned with messaging, and develop processes for consistent communication.
• Set performance goals and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure success.
• Ensure brand consistency across all communications, including social media, collateral, and public relations.
• Shape and maintain an editorial calendar that supports brand goals and aligns with community activities.
• Manage the production of materials including flyers, videos, annual and impact reports.
• Write, edit, and produce a variety of content, including press releases, newsletters, annual reports, impact reports, website copy, social media posts and videos
• Support the Client Engagement in digital management. Ensure websites, social media accounts and email communications are consistent in brand, messaging and accuracy.
• Build and manage relationships with the media, pitch stories, secure media coverage, and act as a spokesperson or media liaison.
• Manage marketing budgets that ensure resources are allocated effectively.
• Advise on and help mitigate risks related to reputational and crisis communications.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, partners, and the community to build support and engagement.

Required skills and qualifications

• Communication skills: Exceptional written, verbal, and editing skills to communicate clearly and effectively with various audiences; a strong portfolio of work expected.
• Strategic thinking: Ability to develop long-term communication plans and align them with organizational objectives.
• Project management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities.
• Technical proficiency: Experience with social media platforms, content management systems (like WordPress), and other communication tools (e.g., email marketing, analytics, and CRM software).
• Leadership and teamwork: Ability to work independently and collaboratively, and to lead or mentor a team.
• Relationship building: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media contacts, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Nonprofit acumen: Experience in the nonprofit sector is preferred, along with a commitment to the organization's mission.
• Computer Skills: Has strong computer literacy skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and database applications.
• Entrepreneurship. Familiarity with entrepreneurial ecosystems, small business support, or economic development preferred.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 6 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

7+ years in communications leadership is preferred

Up to $110,000 commensurate with experience, education, and internal equity.

Application materials must include an updated resume/CV and cover letter. Additional application materials that demonstrate proficiency and experience in marketing & communications are encouraged.

Application review to begin February 2, 2026. Position will accept and review applications until filled.

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

The position reports to UMKC IC Executive Director

Background

Housed in the University of Missouri-Kansas City, the UMKC Innovation Center works across the university and the community to connect, support, sustain and empower entrepreneurial efforts within our region and across the country. Services are provided across the center's five pillars:

• Entrepreneurial Education, which, through programs like the Missouri Small Business Development Center, Missouri APEX Accelerators and ScaleUP! serves aspiring and established entrepreneurs from inception through maturity by delivering high-impact training programs, business development technical assistance and coaching.
• Regional Ecosystem Development, which, through KCSourceLink and MOSourceLink, connects entrepreneurs to the right resources and develops stronger resources for entrepreneurship.
• Technology Venture Studio, which, through programs like Digital Sandbox KC, Whiteboard2Boardroom and KCInvestED, builds the tech community and nurtures, supports, grows and provides project funding for our region's founders and their early-stage innovations. TVS also nurtures the growing infrastructure for UMKC technology commercialization.
• SourceLink, which provides consulting and tools to help cities, states and regions nationwide build better-connected and more cohesive infrastructures to spark, support and sustain entrepreneurship.

Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.

UMKC's campuses are conveniently nestled in the middle of all the action. Volker Campus is just minutes from the legendary Country Club Plaza, perfect for shopping or restaurants for lunch or after-work happy hours. Surrounded by hip neighborhoods and eateries, the Health Sciences Campus is located downtown near University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital.

UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.