Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications

$110,000 - $130,000/Yr

Pacific Lutheran University - Tacoma, WA

Full-time - Senior

Tacoma, WA

1,001-5,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications (AVP) at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is a strategic leadership role focused on shaping the university's brand and enhancing its visibility through innovative marketing strategies. The AVP will lead a talented team, collaborate across the university, and drive campaigns that engage diverse audiences, supporting enrollment and development efforts while fostering relationships that enhance PLU's regional and national impact.

Responsibilities

• Shape and elevate PLU's brand identity through consistent messaging and visual representation.
• Oversee the creation and execution of integrated marketing campaigns targeting prospective students, alumni, donors, and the broader community.
• Collaborate with Admission to design recruitment marketing strategies that drive enrollment growth.
• Partner with Constituent Engagement to create communication strategies that support fundraising efforts and engage alumni.
• Utilize market research and data analysis to refine marketing strategies and assess communication efforts.
• Serve as the university's lead communications officer, ensuring clear and engaging messaging across all platforms.
• Develop and execute strategic public relations campaigns to elevate PLU's reputation and expand visibility.
• Oversee the content strategy for the university's website and social media, ensuring alignment with PLU's brand.
• Manage crisis communications to safeguard the university's reputation.
• Cultivate connections with local, regional, and national media to generate positive coverage of PLU's accomplishments.

Requirements

• Substantial and progressively responsible experience in marketing and communications, preferably in higher education.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing integrated marketing communications strategies.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire a high-performing team, fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration.
• Deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Exceptional project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Well-developed intercultural competency and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic and analytical thinker with seasoned judgment and data-informed decision-making skills.
• Adaptable and agile, with the ability to navigate a complex working environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in budget management and strategic resource allocation.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with the Tacoma and South Sound communities and the Pacific Northwest region.

Benefits

• Tuition remission for employees and their dependents.
• Generous retirement plan.
• Medical and dental insurance.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Major holidays off, including a winter holiday break and additional annual flex time.