Job Title: Procurement Communications Strategist (full-time, exempt)

Company: Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC)

Location: Hybrid role; Lexington Headquarters with statewide travel

Reports To: Executive Director, Kentucky APEX Accelerator

About KSTC: Since its founding in 1987, the Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation (KSTC) has been a pioneering force in driving science, technology, and innovative economic development throughout Kentucky.

Vision and Mission: We envision a future where Kentucky is recognized as a national and international leader, ranks among the top half of states in innovation-driven economic development, and where KSTC is recognized among its peers as setting the benchmark for others to follow. With this vision in mind, our mission is clear: We cultivate knowledge, talent, and innovation to propel the state's growth and competitiveness on a national and global scale.

About Kentucky APEX Accelerator: The mission of KY APEX Accelerator is to promote Kentucky’s economic development by assisting companies who desire to and/or are in the process of providing products and/or services to the Federal, state, and local government or their prime contractors. Murray's office will be one of the seven offices in the Commonwealth.  Other offices include Lexington, Covington, Louisville, Elizabethtown, Bowling Green, and Morehead. To learn more about KY APEX Accelerator and services offered, please visit www.kyapex.com   

Position Summary

The Procurement Communications Strategist serves as a dual-function leader combining high-level government contracting expertise with strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and program visibility responsibilities.

This hybrid position is designed to support the Kentucky APEX Accelerator’s mission to empower Kentucky businesses to compete successfully in government markets while elevating the program’s statewide brand, digital footprint, and public value.

The role merges the technical depth of a Procurement Consultant with the creative strategy of a communications expert, ensuring the program’s impact is not only delivered but also effectively communicated to stakeholders, policymakers, and the public.

Core Responsibilities

1. Strategic Procurement Advising

• Serve as an advisor for client portfolios requiring advanced knowledge of government acquisition in the Nicholasville area and supporting roles for Lexington and Louisville market.
• Conduct detailed readiness assessments and guide clients on registration on our website, compliance, RFP interpretation, pricing models, subcontracting, and proposal development.
• Provide subject matter expertise and peer mentorship to junior advisors across all regional offices.
• Lead advanced training workshops and webinars on procurement, cybersecurity, and market positioning.

2. Strategic Communications & Public Engagement

• Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies to promote APEX services, client successes, and statewide economic impact.
• Manage content creation across newsletters, press releases, social media, and digital campaigns with unified branding and measurable engagement metrics.
• Represent KY APEX at major business and government events, amplifying visibility through keynote presentations, interviews, and cross-sector partnerships.
• Maintain strong relationships with media outlets, partner organizations, and government agencies to reinforce KY APEX’s thought leadership.

3. Event Leadership & Ecosystem Building

• Plan and lead regional and statewide events, including procurement conferences, industry roundtables, and collaborative training series.
• Coordinate logistics, vendor management, registration, and communications across virtual and in-person platforms.
• Develop and maintain a master training and event calendar, ensuring alignment with federal reporting periods and performance goals.

4. Reporting, Analytics & CRM Oversight

• Oversee CRM data integrity, ensuring compliance with DoD reporting requirements and federal data entry protocols.
• Collect and analyze client, training, and outreach metrics to produce comprehensive monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
• Use analytics to refine outreach strategy and optimize program visibility among underrepresented business populations.

5. Program Strategy & Leadership Support

• Work closely with the Executive Director on strategic initiatives, special projects, and cross-program partnerships.
• Contribute to long-term program development, innovation pipelines, and performance improvement systems.
• Supervise interns and junior staff, offering mentorship, professional development, and quality assurance in deliverables.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in program management, or strategic communications.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• Experience managing digital platforms, newsletters, and CRM systems, Microsoft Suite, and various other government systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MBA, MPA, or related).
• Experience working with defense industry partners, or economic development agencies.
• Data-driven storytelling and analytics experience.
• Proven success in public relations, marketing strategy, or stakeholder engagement.

Key Competencies:

• Executive-level communication and diplomacy skills
• Brand and reputation management
• Analytical reporting and CRM proficiency
• Strategic foresight and innovation, self-driven mindsetStrong knowledge of business and operational management

Additional Information:

• The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required. Other duties may be assigned as determined by management.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties and responsibilities.

KSTC is an equal opportunity employer and offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Applications are now being accepted and will be processed as they are received, with screening for interviews beginning immediately.