Associate Vice President of University Marketing and Communications

Description:

Job Description Summary:
Samuel Merritt University seeks an energetic and innovative professional to lead its Office of University Marketing and Communications. Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement and Communications (VPAC), the Associate Vice President of University Marketing and Communications (AVPUMC) will develop and implement a comprehensive and integrated marketing/communications strategy, manage internal and external communications and public relations in support of the institution while enhancing the image of the University.

The position will concentrate on strategic institutional communications, University-wide broad based marketing and brand development, develop strong local and regional media relationships, promote community engagement, and develop and lead a team of marketing and communications professionals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Work with members of the senior leadership team, deans, faculty, staff, and students to develop and produce effective print and digital communications materials.

2. Identify, develop, and manage a strategic, internal and external communication plan for the University that can be measured for effectiveness and impact.

3. Develop written communications, messaging, and content for the President of the University and advise executive leadership team on internal and external communications strategies including crisis communications.

4. Serve as the strategic and creative leader of University marketing campaigns including:

• Develop a marketing resource plan for the University Marketing/Communications department
• Develop a University brand awareness campaign to maximize budgeted resources
• Working with the VPAC, develop and implement a comprehensive marketing plan for fundraising capital campaign (public launch in 2023)
• Develop and implement a comprehensive plan to enhance overall awareness and stature of Samuel Merritt University including macro-institutional messaging and advertising as well as increased local, regional and national media coverage
• Serve in a support/collaborative role for academic program marketing and recruitment. Academic program marketing is a joint University venture led by the VPs of Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, University Advancement/Communications and Business Affairs. The AVPUMC will play a critical role in fostering collaboration across divisions to successfully market and promote academic programs and student recruitment initiatives.
• Serve as the institution's official communications liaison between the University, the media, and all other external constituencies.
• Develop measurable short- and long-term goals and outcomes for the University Marketing and Communications program.
• Responsible for all aspects of budget oversight for all staff and programs in the department of University Marketing and Communications.
• Work with current members of the communications and marketing team to review and assess the current organizational structure of the department and develop a personnel resource plan that will maximize productivity and impact, including evaluation, promotion and role creation/clarification for all staff.
• Serve on appropriate University advisory and search committees.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Advancement and Communications.
• Responsible for Communications and Marketing budget. Also, reports to VP of Advancement and Communications.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master's degree strongly preferred. Five to seven years leadership/management experience in Communications, Public Relations, and/or Marketing required.
• Proven track record as a visionary leader and innovator in higher education and/or non-profit marketing/communications including successful leadership of a marketing/communications team of professionals.
• Demonstrated experience implementing effective integrated marketing, branding, public relations, digital/online, design and communications principles and strategies.
• Demonstrated effective fiscal management, policy development, directing department operations and developing staff.
• Demonstrated leadership in building meaningful relationships (internally and externally) is critically important. Must be highly collaborative in partnering and building consensus with colleagues across multiple University departments and divisions.

Knowledge

• Strong working knowledge and ability to implement best practices and current techniques related to Communications, Public Relations and Marketing.
• Knowledge of and commitment to innovative and motivational leadership as a team leader as well as a teammate.
• Working knowledge of and commitment to the mission of Samuel Merritt University and health sciences education overall.

Skills

• Demonstrated organization and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage multiple projects and assignments with excellent organization, delivery, creativity, planning, and attention to detail in collaboration with others.
• Superior written, editing, verbal communication skills and analytical research skills. Demonstrated excellence in communications, marketing, public relations, and design skills.

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The University has an institution-wide commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We strive to build a welcoming and supportive campus environment, and acknowledge that diversity is an educational imperative to achieve excellence.

Employee Status:
Regular
Exemption Status:
United States of America (Exempt)
Time Type:
Full time
Job Shift: