Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

About the position

The Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (CMCO) at Penn State Smeal College of Business will provide overall vision and strategic leadership for all internal and external communications and marketing activities. This role is crucial in developing and executing comprehensive branding, performance marketing, and communication strategies that enhance the College's reputation, strengthen student and faculty recruitment, and drive fundraising initiatives. The CMCO will oversee a skilled team of marketing and communications professionals and will work closely with academic and administrative leaders to ensure alignment with the College's mission and strategy. This position is an exceptional opportunity for a proven leader to initiate positive change and make a lasting impact for the Smeal College community.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy aligned with the College's strategic plan.
• Oversee the College's branding efforts, ensuring consistency and impact in all messaging and marketing collateral.
• Monitor and enhance the College's national and international reputation through strategic public relations and thought leadership initiatives.
• Provide strategic counsel to the Dean and senior leadership on key communication initiatives.
• Lead and manage a team of marketing and communications professionals, setting priorities and performance expectations.
• Advocate for the resources needed to support and execute the College's marketing and communications strategy.
• Collaborate with the PSU Office of Strategic Communications to scale the University's technical strategy to Smeal websites.
• Develop and execute innovative, data-driven performance marketing campaigns.
• Identify and surface opportunities to elevate and strengthen the Smeal and Penn State brands.
• Develop and execute a robust content strategy that supports brand awareness and engagement.
• Oversee internal and external communications, including crisis communications and media relations.
• Work closely with development and alumni relations teams to support fundraising and donor engagement.
• Engage with corporate partners and industry leaders to enhance the College's reputation.
• Develop and manage the marketing and communications budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, business administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in marketing, communications, and/or media relations.
• 5+ years of supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and motivating a team of marketing and communications professionals.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Extensive knowledge of marketing principles and practices, including digital and traditional advertising.
• Strong understanding of digital marketing channels, SEO, and web presence management.
• Proficiency in using data analytics to track and measure marketing campaign performance.
• Experience overseeing the production and distribution of high-quality content.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced degree preferred.
• Professional certifications in performance marketing, digital media, or related fields.
• Current or prior experience in an educational environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $109,300.00 - $164,000.00.
• Commitment to equity, respect, and belonging in all forms.
• Opportunities for professional development and engagement.