Web Content Manager

Job Description: The Web Content Manager is a key member of the content strategy team in Washington and Lee University’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs (C&PA). Reporting to the Senior Director of Content Strategy, the Web Content Manager’s primary responsibility is to advance the strategic goals and priorities of the university through a unified, campus-wide web strategy. As lead content producer and strategist for the university’s website, the Web Content Strategist will employ writing, web design, and project management skills to ensure an engaging web experience for prospective students, alumni, visitors, and members of the campus community. Washington and Lee University actively promotes a dynamic and inclusive environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in their areas of expertise. Essential Functions Serve as the primary manager and creator of content on the university websites, including creative direction; development and management of an editorial calendar; research and writing of content; development of effective navigation; creation of visuals and photo selection; and scheduling and production of engaging web content. Serve as lead writer and content producer for university websites, collaborating with colleagues in C&PA as well as partners in departments across campus. Ensure that content is created and updated in a timely manner and supports the university's brand messaging and the goals of key clients, including Admissions, Advancement and internally facing offices. Build and update pages within CMS, selecting appropriate imagery from an approved pool, and ensuring consistency and effectiveness of presentation for all elements on webpages. Serve as a leader in future website redesigns, working with the Web Development Manager and other staff to conceive, plan, and produce content and ensure a smooth site transition. Partner with C&PA photography and editorial staff to ensure images are approved and copy is on message, in university style, and free of errors. Use metrics to assess performance, maximize search, analyze user engagement, and make informed decisions on content strategy. Coordinate with Web Development Manager and Social Media and Media Relations Manager to develop and execute timely and effective digital communications strategies in emergency situations. Coordinate with campus-wide web content creators on updates and changes to internal websites. Work Schedule: M-F, 8:30am - 4:30pm - The Office of Communications and Public Affairs offers a hybrid work schedule option with a combination of in-person and remote work. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or relevant combination of education and experience in communications, marketing, journalism, or related field. Five or more years of digital content creation and production experience, preferably at an institution of higher education or other mission-driven organization. Ability to tell a compellingly brand story on web platforms by visualizing and communicating content in varying and interesting formats, and combining elements such as text, infographics, photography and video Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy, and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. Demonstrated expertise with web analytics tools and analysis, including reporting, identifying trends, measuring effectiveness content strategy, providing insight, and recommending data-driven, actionable improvements and adjustments. Exceptional organizational and project management skills and a proven track record of meeting deadlines. Experience with content management systems and working knowledge and understanding of Web site development, including facility with HTML, CSS and other front-end development tools. Knowledge of usability, user experience and accessibility best practices. Ability to be a collaborative team player who regularly communicates with teammates and stakeholders. Application Instructions: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Resume, cover letter, and work samples are required. Provide links to several samples of work or upload directly with required documents. Upload all required documents to the Resume/CV upload section of the application. You will be asked to provide names and contact information for three professional references. External Applicants: Application instructions for external applicants are located on the jobs.wlu.edu or here. Current W&L Employees: Apply from your existing Workday account. Instructions are located at jobs.wlu.edu or here. Physical Requirements: Fingering: Picking, pinching, typing or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than with whole hand or arm as in handling. Grasping: Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm. Repetitive motions: Making substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. Working Conditions: The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions. Types of Work: Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met. Position Type: Exempt, Full Time, Benefit Eligible Minimum Pay: $74,316.20 - Pay Commensurate with Experience The university requires employees to become fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and new employees must provide proof of at least their first shot prior to the first day of employment. Boosters are required. Individuals may seek a medical or a religious exemption to the vaccination requirement.