📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Communications Manager, Department of Student Services
🔹 Company: Nazarbayev University
🔹 Location: Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
🔹 Job Type: Full-time
🔹 Category: Higher Education
🔹 Date Posted: April 16, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing communication strategies to enhance stakeholder awareness of the Department's activities and initiatives.
- Managing electronic resources and social networks, creating and translating content, and launching targeted advertising.
- Collaborating with internal and external audiences to collect materials for various distribution channels.
- Planning and conducting integrated marketing campaigns, interviews, and events.
- Preparing reports on the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and other related documents.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong focus on strategic communication planning, content creation, and stakeholder management to effectively promote the Department and the University.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Disseminate internal and external messages to increase awareness of stakeholders about the activities, initiatives, and services of the Department.
✅ Analyze the effectiveness of communication channels and develop strategies to contribute to the implementation of the operational plan and the tasks of the Department.
✅ Prepare and verify reports/issues related to communication channels.
✅ Develop written materials, prepare presentations, and assist in preparing the annual report/presentation of the Department.
✅ Develop printed materials, apply marketing strategies, and manage electronic resources and social networks.
✅ Conduct interviews, prepare materials for publications, and provide consulting and methodological assistance to employees.
✅ Organize events for the creation and strengthening of the Department's team and participate in events organized to attract students.
✅ Prepare analytical data and reports on issues within his/her competence.
✅ Timely and high-quality execution of other instructions from the Head and management of the University within the framework of their official duties and powers.
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, content creation, event management, and stakeholder engagement, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Higher professional education, preferably in higher educational institutions with English language of instruction and medium of assessment.
Priority areas of majors:
- Higher Education Administration;
- Linguistics;
- Marketing and Public Relations
Experience: At least three years of work experience, with one year required for those holding a master's degree in the relevant field.
Required Skills:
- Knowledge of the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of education;
- Analytical skills;
- Knowledge of MS Office, Excel, PowerPoint programs;
- Fluency in English, Kazakh, and Russian languages
Preferred Skills:
- Change management and project management skills;
- Presentation skills;
- Skills in using graphic editors;
- Writing skills
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong educational background in relevant fields, along with proven experience and proficiency in multiple languages, will be well-suited for this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: The salary range for this position is not specified. However, based on industry standards for a Communications Manager in Higher Education in Kazakhstan, the estimated range is 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 KZT per year (approximately 3,500 - 5,800 USD).
Benefits:
- One-year employment contract with the possibility of renewal/extension;
- Recruitment and selection process including preliminary selection, assessments, and formal interviews.
Working Hours: Full-time position with standard working hours, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Higher Education
Company Size: 1,001-5,000 employees
Founded: 2009
Company Description:
- Nazarbayev University is a modern and rapidly developing university located in the heart of Eurasia, in the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Nur-Sultan.
- The University aspires to become an international research university, focusing on providing world-class education, facilitating research, and supporting innovation.
- NU is committed to excellence in research and education, with core values including academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and a merit-based admission and progression system.
Company Specialties:
- Engineering;
- Public Policy;
- Education;
- Business Administration;
- Humanities;
- Medicine;
- Mining;
- AI, and Science
Company Website: nu.edu.kz
ASSUMPTION: Nazarbayev University is a leading higher education institution in Kazakhstan, offering a wide range of academic programs and fostering the country's future leaders and professionals.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level, with potential for growth and development within the University's communications and marketing departments.
Reporting Structure: The Communications Manager reports directly to the Head of the Department of Student Services and may oversee junior team members or interns.
Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with standard working hours and the possibility of occasional overtime or weekend work for events and campaigns.
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression to senior roles within the University's communications and marketing departments;
- Expanding skills and expertise in strategic communication planning, content creation, and event management;
- Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and initiatives, enhancing the candidate's professional portfolio.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity for candidates to grow professionally within a dynamic and rapidly developing higher education institution.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, on-campus office with state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
Office Location(s): 53 Kabanbay batyr Ave., Nur-Sultan, 010000, KZ
Geographic Context:
- Nur-Sultan, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a vibrant and modern city with a growing economy and a diverse cultural scene;
- The University is located in the heart of the city, offering easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, and entertainment options;
- Kazakhstan is a bilingual country, with Kazakh and Russian being the official languages, and English being widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and among younger generations.
Work Schedule: Standard working hours, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the possibility of occasional overtime or weekend work for events and campaigns.
ASSUMPTION: The work environment at Nazarbayev University is dynamic, multicultural, and supportive of professional growth and development.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission;
- Preliminary selection based on experience and qualifications;
- Assessments (e.g., technical skills/capabilities, aptitude, personality, work samples, in-basket exercises, and informal interviews);
- Formal interviews based on organizational values and behaviors, conducted in English.
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication and presentation skills;
- Analytical and problem-solving skills;
- Cultural awareness and adaptability;
- Alignment with the University's core values and mission.
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role;
- Demonstrate your proficiency in English, Kazakh, and Russian through your application materials and interview responses;
- Prepare examples of your communication and marketing work, as well as any relevant projects or campaigns you have managed.
ATS Keywords: Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Stakeholder Engagement, Content Creation, Event Management, Higher Education, Nazarbayev University, English, Kazakh, Russian
ASSUMPTION: The application process at Nazarbayev University is thorough and competitive, with a strong focus on assessing candidates' skills, experience, and cultural fit.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
- Graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva);
- Social media management platforms (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer);
- Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal);
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello);
- Email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact).
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with industry-standard tools and technologies is essential for success in this role, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their proficiency during the interview process.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Academic Freedom;
- Institutional Autonomy;
- Merit-based Admission and Progression System;
- Excellence in Research and Education;
- Integrity and Transparency;
- Diversity and Inclusion;
- Collaboration and Partnership;
- Sustainability and Responsibility.
Work Style:
- Dynamic and fast-paced environment;
- Collaborative and team-oriented culture;
- Focus on innovation and continuous improvement;
- Support for professional growth and development.
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Nazarbayev University's core values, particularly academic freedom and excellence in research and education?
- How do you approach working in a multicultural and bilingual environment, and what strategies do you use to ensure effective communication with diverse stakeholders?
- How do you balance working independently and collaboratively, and how do you prioritize your workload to ensure the successful completion of multiple projects and tasks?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong understanding of and alignment with Nazarbayev University's core values and work culture will be well-suited for this role.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously;
- Working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment with tight deadlines;
- Navigating a multicultural and bilingual work environment;
- Adapting to the unique cultural and political context of Kazakhstan and the higher education sector.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to address these potential challenges proactively and demonstrate their ability to thrive in a dynamic and multicultural work environment.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other communications roles in higher education, this position places a stronger emphasis on strategic communication planning and stakeholder engagement;
- In Kazakhstan, the higher education sector is competitive and rapidly evolving, with a strong focus on internationalization and research excellence;
- Career progression in higher education communications typically involves moving into senior roles within the University's communications and marketing departments or transitioning into specialized roles, such as alumni relations or fundraising.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should research the higher education sector in Kazakhstan and familiarize themselves with the unique cultural and political context to better understand the opportunities and challenges associated with this role.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy for a major University event or initiative;
- Managing a team of student interns or junior communications professionals to execute a large-scale marketing campaign;
- Creating and translating content for various distribution channels, including social media, websites, newsletters, and press releases, to enhance the University's brand and reputation.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their relevant experience and provide examples of their work in strategic communication planning, content creation, and event management during the interview process.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days, and how will my work contribute to the overall success of the Department and the University?
- How does the Department of Student Services collaborate with other departments and units within the University, and what opportunities are there for cross-functional collaboration and learning?
- What are the most significant challenges facing the University's communications and marketing efforts, and how can this role contribute to addressing them?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the University's communications and marketing departments, and how does the University support the career advancement of its employees?
- How does the University engage with its local community and international partners, and what role can this position play in enhancing these relationships?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should ask thoughtful and insightful questions during the interview process to demonstrate their interest in the role and their understanding of the University's mission and values.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the provided link;
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role, emphasizing your proficiency in English, Kazakh, and Russian;
- Prepare examples of your communication and marketing work, as well as any relevant projects or campaigns you have managed, to showcase your skills and accomplishments;
- Follow up with the University's human resources department one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application and express your continued interest in the role.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
