The Assistant VP for Marketing & Communications is a Cabinet level position that is responsible for advancing the Lourdes brand through audience-first marketing communications including brand messaging, publications and content, digital initiatives, social media and traditional marketing and management, video storytelling and special events. The AVP serves as an internal strategy consultant and has a service delivery role with campus partners and develops institutional content strategy for web, print and digital. This position oversees project intake and management for the Office of Marketing & Communications, supports strategic recruitment initiatives with the Vice President for Enrollment Management, strategic fundraising initiatives with the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and key communications and media relations for the President's Office.Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide strategic direction and hands-on support to the University in the key areas of creative marketing, branding, communications, media relations and public relations
- Advance the mission, vision and identity of the University by strengthening its reputation and attracting new resources, both human and material, to the University.
- Provide strategic communications and marketing advice and support to the President and Vice Presidents focused on strengthening the reputation and brand of Lourdes in areas such as student recruitment, alumni relations, public perceptions, fundraising and future development
- Assists the Vice President for Enrollment Management with digital and print recruitment messaging, marketing and advertising initiatives
- Assists the President with marketing and communications initiatives and support as needed, including media contacts and critical campus-wide messages
- Assists the Vice President for Institutional Advancement on fundraising initiatives and campaigns
- Develop and manage Integrated Marketing Plan for Enrollment
- Develop and manage Marketing Plans for specific campaigns including key performance indicators and analytics
- Lead the Marketing & Communications Team to include development and execution of media relations strategies, website and digital and print materials
- Manage and implement crisis communication plan
- Establish and strengthen communications with external advertising and marketing organizations
- Craft and manage the dissemination of internal and external marketing and advertising initiatives
- Provide script review and support for select events
- Manage Marketing & Communications budget
- Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and continuity of official messaging
- Perform other duties as assigned
Professional Skills
- Leadership/supervision skills and ability to develop goals and manage key performance indicators and analytics
- Extensive project management skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and creatively
- Ability to function with a high degree of independence and to act collaboratively in development and execution of marketing and communications strategies
- Ability to reflect, articulate and promote the mission, vision and identity of Lourdes University
- Strong competency with standard software applications and ability to learn and deploy new software
- Excellent writing, editing and content distribution skills
- Excellent planning and organizational skills and ability to pay close attention to detail
- Knowledge and expertise in social media platforms, website, content management systems, customer relationship management systems, analytics and other key measurement instruments
- Ability to manage marketing plans, advertising and communication campaigns
- Ability to be a strong collaborator, thought leader and facilitator
- Cultural competency and/or ability to work collaboratively with a diverse workforce
- Strong communication skills, both written and oral
- Experience with creative design, Adobe Creative Suite
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field; Master's degree preferred
- 5-10 years of experience working in marketing or related field.
- Strong leadership and team building skills
- Must be able to work a flexible schedule as needed
- Efficient in managing budget
- Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing strategic communications plans
- Track record of identifying and generating ideas and turning them into compelling narratives to advance University or Corporate brands
- Excellent writing, public speaking and editing skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communications skills
- Experience with media relations