Senior Communications Specialist (Term)- Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center

Senior Communications Specialist – Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center 

Job Description Summary: 

The Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Vanderbilt University aims to accelerate states’ implementation of evidence-based policies that help all children thrive from the start. The Center’s Communications team advances this work through two senior communications specialist roles with complementary areas of focus. One role leads digital strategy, audience engagement, and analytics across the Center’s online platforms. This position focuses on supporting the development and publication of communications products and translating complex research and policy insights into accessible communications. 

We seek an experienced Senior Communications Specialist who will serve as a communications partner to the Center’s policy researchers and analysts, helping synthesize technical research and policy insights into clear, compelling materials for policymakers and other key audiences. The role supports the development of major publications, media materials, and public-facing communications that strengthen the visibility and impact of the Center’s work. 

Please submit writing samples with your application. Candidates will be asked to complete a short exercise. 

General Notes: 

This position reports functionally and administratively to the Communications Director. Applicants from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse environment to continue to build a strong and equitable prenatal-to-3 system of care. This position can be performed remotely, and hybrid remote-work opportunities are available. Visa sponsorship is unavailable for this position.  This position is a term appointment beginning upon date of hire and expected to last 12 months. 

The primary duties and responsibilities of the position include: 

Project Management and Leadership: 

• Manage communications projects from concept through publication, coordinating across internal teams and external partners to ensure deadlines are met and review processes are completed 

• Develop and implement systems and processes that improve communications workflows and coordination across teams 

• Continuously build expertise in prenatal-to-three policy and research topics to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders 

• Contribute creati