Assistant Vice President – Communications & Digital

Role Overview
IIT Kanpur Development Foundation seeks a senior communications professional to lead IIT Kanpur’s institute-level communications and digital presence from the campus.
This campus-based leadership role will build a structured communications system that captures and communicates IIT Kanpur’s academic, research and institutional work to national and global audiences.
By strengthening institutional visibility and storytelling, the role will support IIT Kanpur’s long-term institutional development and fundraising efforts.
Key Responsibilities
Institute Communications
● Lead institute-level communications including announcements and leadership messaging
● Develop a structured editorial pipeline across departments and research centres
● Produce research, faculty and student stories
● Serve as a key communications interface across the campus
Digital Presence
● Oversee institute-level social media and ensure consistency of communication
● Establish editorial calendars and content planning processes
● Coordinate website content updates and improvements
● Strengthen quality and professionalism digital communication
Reputation, Media & PR
● Lead institute-level media relations and reputation management
● Develop and manage press releases and media communication
● Build and maintain relationships with key media stakeholders
● Monitor media coverage and institutional visibility
● Support crisis and sensitive communications when required
● Coordinate and manage PR agencies and external partners
Campus Content & Media
● Build and manage a professional campus content engine
● Oversee photography and videography for institutional use
● Ensure structured coverage of events and milestones
● Develop content for institutional visibility and outreach
Team Leadership & Governance
● Lead and manage the campus communications team
● Establish professional standards and workflows
● Introduce structured planning and approval processes.
Profile
● 10–15 years experience in communications, journalism or institutional marketing
● Strong writing and editorial judgement
● Experience managing teams and stakeholders
● Experience working with senior leadership preferred
Desired Skillsets
Technical Skills
● Strong writing and institutional storytelling ability
● Experience managing digital platforms and content workflows
● Ability to translate research and academic work into clear narratives
● Familiarity with media relations and institutional communications
Behavioural Competencies
● Strong stakeholder management across academic and administrative groups
● Ability to work effectively with senior leadership and faculty
● High ownership and ability to manage multiple priorities
● Ability to build and lead teams in evolving environments