Mississippi Media Lab Director of Civic Engagment

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The School of Journalism and New Media seeks a seasoned journalism professional to develop the Mississippi Media Lab and to conduct civic engagement activities related to the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation. 

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -  Administration 

Sub-Family - Administrative Operations

Career Track / Level - M4

Grade - 13

Role Summary

Administers and evaluates all business and administrative matters including budget, operations, and programs and personnel administration within a unit. Provides financial analysis and strategic planning as well as oversees the budgetary controls.

Successful candidates will have significant professional experience in a variety of media formats, a national reputation and an entrepreneurial orientation.  
The Mississippi Media Lab is a new venture of SJNM intended to produce and distribute news products by UM students to existing news organizations across the state and nation. Sample products for the lab could include podcasts, editorials, long form special projects, or government reporting. These products can be produced in courses, through independent studies and/or summer internships.

This position will also play a pivotal role in advancing the Jordan Center for Journalism Advocacy and Innovation, serving as a liaison between the center, the School, and the broader community.  The individual will be responsible for fostering civic engagement, advocacy, and public dialogue around journalism’s role in a democratic society. This includes exploring innovative solutions in journalism education, supporting community-based journalism initiatives, and engaging in strategic partnerships to enhance media literacy and public awareness.  A cornerstone of the Center is the Jordan Institute for Life Skills and Wealth Creation, a practical, solutions-driven summer program designed to complement the high school curriculum while emphasizing the essential connection between a free and dynamic press and lifelong learning.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about journalism, education, and community-driven innovation, with a vision for how the media can serve as a catalyst for civic engagement, lifelong learning and social impact.
 

Examples of Work Performed

• Journalism Advocacy & Community Outreach – Representing the center in discussions on journalism’s impact in education and society, building relationships with educators, policymakers, and media professionals.
• Event Planning & Program Development – Organizing special events, workshops, and speaker series that highlight journalism’s role in civic life.
• Jordan Institute for Life Skills & Wealth Creation – Leading the development of this practical-minded summer program, which supplements the high school curriculum by linking an independent press to lifelong education and economic empowerment.
• Innovation & Research – Identifying and advocating for forward-thinking approaches that enhance journalism’s relevance and sustainability in the digital age.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Oversee the overall operations of the department, ensuring that all units are working together effectively and efficiently to achieve the department's goals and objectives.
2. Develop and implement strategic plans and objectives to guide the department's growth and development, in collaboration with other senior managers and stakeholders.
3. Lead and manage a team of supervisors and other staff, providing coaching, mentoring, and performance management as needed to ensure high-quality operations and strong employee engagement.
4. Develop and manage the department's budget, ensuring financial sustainability and alignment with the university's strategic priorities and goals.
5. Design, implement, and maintain effective processes and systems to track and analyze performance metrics, identify areas for improvement, and develop and implement plans to address any operational inefficiencies or bottlenecks.
6. Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders across the university to ensure effective coordination and alignment of departmental goals and objectives with broader institutional priorities and strategic plans.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: (10) 10 Years Experience, (6) Six years of supervisory experience

Application deadline: March 1 
 

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:  These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion:  The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision:  Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination:  While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.