At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead corporate communications strategies and create impactful narratives for Singapore Management University.
- Company: Join a vibrant community at Singapore Management University, known for its supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and a great work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a difference by shaping the university's reputation and engaging with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: 8-12 years in communications; a degree in relevant fields is preferred.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth and mentorship in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Singapore Management University is a place where high-level professionalism blends together with a healthy informality. The 'family-like' atmosphere among the SMU community fosters a culture where employees work, plan, organise and play together - building a strong collegiality and morale within the university. Our commitment to attract and retain talent is ongoing. We offer attractive benefits and welfare, competitive compensation packages, and generous professional development opportunities - all to meet the work-life needs of our staff. No wonder, then, that SMU continues to be given numerous awards and recognition for its human resource excellence.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Strategic Corporate Communications: Develop and execute integrated corporate communications strategies that strengthen SMU's institutional reputation locally, regionally, and globally. Support the Head, Brand & Corporate Communications in shaping and reinforcing SMU's institutional corporate narrative, positioning, and key messages, ensuring alignment across all communications. Partner closely with the Office of Impact to conceptualise and deliver a robust impact communications framework that includes messaging platforms, thematic narratives, and storytelling that clearly articulate SMU's contributions to industry, government, and society. Translate research outcomes, pedagogical innovations, community and industry partnerships, policy contributions, and alumni achievements into compelling evidence-based impact stories. Lead the development and production of the SMU Annual Report.
- Media Relations & Issues Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with local and international media, serving as a senior contact point for proactive stories, editorial collaborations, and media queries. Identify, shape, and pitch high-impact media opportunities that highlight SMU's thought leadership, research strengths, education innovations, and societal impact. Develop forward-thinking media strategies that enhance visibility in priority markets (e.g., ASEAN, China, India, global education and business media). Support issues and crisis communications, preparing statements, Q&A and holding lines while coordinating closely with the Head of Brand and Communications, VP OCCM, University Leadership, and relevant internal units.
- Content Strategy & Editorial Leadership: Lead the end-to-end content and creative development of the President's State of the University Address (PSOUA), including narrative framing, scriptwriting, content storyboard, multimedia production (videos, animations, slides), and the curation of performances or interactive segments that drive engagement and retention. Ensure all content meets high editorial standards for accuracy, clarity, strategic alignment, and brand consistency. Maintain an editorial calendar that aligns corporate communications outputs with institutional milestones and strategic priorities.
- Stakeholder & Internal Communications: Partner with internal units (HR, Schools, Institutes, Centres, Advancement, Registrar, Campus Services, President's Office) to ensure timely, coherent, and well-coordinated communications of institutional updates. Support the Head of Brand and Communications in the development of internal announcements, staff/faculty messages, and university-wide communications that support organisational alignment, transparency, and community building. Oversee the planning and organisation of quarterly University Townhalls.
- Project & Team Leadership: Lead or support major projects within the Brand & Corporate Communications portfolio, including cross-functional campaigns, high-profile publications, and strategic initiatives. Drive project timelines, creative direction, content quality, and stakeholder collaboration to ensure successful outcomes. Mentor, coach, and guide junior team members, providing editorial direction, developmental feedback, and support for professional growth.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field; Master's degree preferred.
- 8 to 12 years of relevant experience in corporate communications, public affairs, media relations, or strategic communications, ideally in higher education or complex organisations.
- Proven track record in developing and executing strategic communications plans.
- Strong experience producing high-quality speeches, thought-leadership content, and executive communications.
- Familiarity with higher education trends and regional media landscapes (SG, ASEAN, China, India) is advantageous.
Candidates who do not possess the stipulated qualifications but have relevant work experience may still apply. Remuneration and appointment terms shall commensurate with qualifications and experience. SMU reserves the right to modify the appointment terms where necessary.
Associate Director, Corporate Communications, OCCM employer: HYPERSCAL SOLUTIONS PTE. LTD.
Contact Detail:
HYPERSCAL SOLUTIONS PTE. LTD. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Corporate Communications, OCCM
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at or know about Singapore Management University. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SMU's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to their mission and values. Tailor your responses to reflect their culture of professionalism and informality.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! As an Associate Director, you'll need to convey complex ideas clearly. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully communicated impactful messages.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the SMU family and contributing to their vibrant community.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Corporate Communications, OCCM
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Associate Director role. Highlight your strategic communications experience and any relevant projects you've led.
Showcase Your Storytelling Skills: Since this role involves a lot of narrative development, don’t shy away from sharing examples of how you've translated complex ideas into engaging stories. Use clear, concise language that reflects your ability to communicate effectively.
Highlight Collaborative Experiences: We love teamwork! Be sure to mention any cross-functional projects you've worked on, especially those involving media relations or stakeholder engagement. This shows you can thrive in our collegial environment.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at HYPERSCAL SOLUTIONS PTE. LTD.
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Singapore Management University's mission, values, and recent achievements. Familiarise yourself with their corporate communications strategies and how they position themselves in the higher education landscape. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Storytelling Skills
As an Associate Director, you'll need to translate complex ideas into engaging narratives. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated intricate concepts in previous roles. Bring along samples of your work, like speeches or reports, to demonstrate your editorial prowess and creative approach.
✨Build Connections
Since this role involves media relations, think about how you can leverage your existing network. Be ready to discuss your experience in building relationships with media outlets and how you've pitched stories in the past. Highlight any successful collaborations that have enhanced visibility for your previous employers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your crisis communication skills and strategic thinking. Think of specific situations where you've had to manage a communication challenge or lead a project under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.