Assistant Vice President of Marketing & Communications

Lourdes University - Sylvania, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Sylvania, OH

Educational Services

About the position

The Assistant Vice President for Marketing & Communications is a Cabinet level position at Lourdes University, responsible for advancing the university's brand through audience-first marketing communications. This includes overseeing brand messaging, publications, content creation, digital initiatives, social media, traditional marketing, video storytelling, and special events. The AVP acts as an internal strategy consultant, collaborating with campus partners to develop an institutional content strategy for web, print, and digital platforms. This role also involves managing project intake and overseeing the Office of Marketing & Communications, supporting strategic recruitment initiatives alongside the Vice President for Enrollment Management, strategic fundraising efforts with the Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and key communications and media relations for the President's Office. In this position, the AVP will provide strategic direction and hands-on support in creative marketing, branding, communications, media relations, and public relations. The goal is to advance the mission, vision, and identity of Lourdes University by enhancing its reputation and attracting new resources. The AVP will offer strategic communications and marketing advice to the President and Vice Presidents, focusing on areas such as student recruitment, alumni relations, public perceptions, fundraising, and future development. Additionally, the AVP will assist in developing and managing integrated marketing plans for enrollment and specific campaigns, including key performance indicators and analytics. The role requires leading the Marketing & Communications Team, executing media relations strategies, and managing the marketing and communications budget. The AVP will also be responsible for maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information, managing crisis communication plans, and crafting internal and external marketing initiatives. This position demands a high degree of independence, creativity, and collaboration in developing and executing effective marketing and communications strategies.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and hands-on support to the University in 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.
• Provide strategic communications and marketing advice and support to the President and Vice Presidents.
• Assist the Vice President for Enrollment Management with digital and print recruitment messaging, marketing, and advertising initiatives.
• Assist the President with marketing and communications initiatives and support as needed.
• Assist 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 in executing media relations strategies and managing 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.

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 a related field.
• Strong leadership and team building skills.
• Ability 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.
• Excellent writing, public speaking, and editing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills.
• Experience with media relations.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with creative design and Adobe Creative Suite.
• 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.
• Cultural competency and/or ability to work collaboratively with a diverse workforce.