Communications Program Manager III - Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: KY

Department:

Location:

Non-Campus Other

Time Type:

Full time

Worker Type:

Regular

Job Req ID:

R107941

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in a related field and eight (8) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Grade 10 (Salaried)

Position Description:

The University of Louisville is seeking to hire a Communications Program Manager III. The Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub Communications and Data Manager plays a dual strategic role in supporting Kentucky’s Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub at the University of Louisville. This position combines marketing and communications expertise with data management and performance analysis to enhance the Hub’s regional and national visibility, ensuring data-informed decision-making.

The ideal candidate is experienced in web design, digital marketing and data analytics—capable of amplifying the Hub’s impact through compelling content via social media, email, and newsletters. This position is essential for promoting Hub activities, driving stakeholder engagement, and demonstrating measurable outcomes to the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the state of Kentucky, the University of Louisville, and the broader defense innovation ecosystem.

This is a grant funded position with funding through August 15, 2027. Continued employment is contingent upon availability of funding.

This position is located in downtown Louisville on the JD Nichols Campus for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Key Responsibilities:

Branding & Communications

• Work closely with DIU and the University of Louisville to develop and implement DIU-compliant marketing strategies that elevate Kentucky’s OnRamp Hub’s presence throughout the state and beyond.

• Design and maintain OnRamp Hub: Kentucky-branded materials, including newsletters, digital campaigns, social media, and a dedicated website.

• Ensure consistent visual and messaging alignment across all Hub-related facilities and platforms.

Digital Engagement & Outreach

• Build and maintain a compelling and engaging OnRamp Hub: Kentucky website.

• Manage and grow the Hub’s social media presence; track and report key engagement metrics (followers, impressions, shares, etc.).

• Coordinate with DIU’s national marketing team to align campaigns and amplify regional success stories.

• Target diverse stakeholders—startups, defense contractors, academic researchers—with tailored outreach efforts.

Event Marketing

• Create and execute promotional strategies for events, including tech showcases, workshops, summits, and industry engagement sessions.

• Collaborate with program and event staff to maximize participation from the DoW, industry, academia, and other key audiences.

• Develop online informational resources easily accessible to DoW, industry, and academia

Success Storytelling

• Identify, document, and share success narratives from Hub participants (e.g., DoD contract awards, technology maturation, venture growth).

• Support in producing case studies, press releases, and media assets in collaboration with DIU’s communications team and UofL’s media office.

Data Management & Analytics

• Support UofL’s Sales Force engineer to develop and maintain the CRM database.

• Guide data integration projects connecting CRM, ERP, and marketing platforms using programs such as Python, SQL, and API automation.

• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to assess performance against DIU-defined success indicators (e.g., TRL/MRL advancements, DoD contracts, startup scaling).

• Support the PM in creating accurate weekly SITREP updates, monthly performance summaries, and financial data reports to meet contractual requirements.

Data Security & Compliance

• Ensure all data practices align with DoD cybersecurity standards, leveraging UofL’s NSA-designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.

• Uphold high standards of data integrity, accuracy, and confidentiality.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with the Program Manager and Ecosystem Engagement Lead to embed data collection into daily operations with minimal disruption.

• Translate data insights into communication materials and program refinements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency with:

  • Web design and management

  • Social media content creation

  • Data analysis and visualiz