Vice President of Communications and Marketing

University Of Charleston - Charleston, WV

Full-time - Executive

Charleston, WV

1,001-5,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The University of Charleston in Charleston, West Virginia, is seeking a Vice President of Communications and Marketing to join our innovative and growing institution. This pivotal role supports the mission of the University by overseeing all aspects of marketing, research, and both internal and external communications. The goal is to enhance and evolve the institutional brand while promoting academic, alumni, and community programs. The Vice President will be a key member of the President's Cabinet, collaborating closely with Executive Vice Presidents for Academics, Enrollment, and Finance, as well as Vice Presidents of Athletics, Development, and Student Life. Reporting directly to the President, the VP will also support the Outreach Committee of the University's Board of Trustees. In this role, the Vice President will lead a team of four full-time professional communications and marketing staff members, along with three full-time staff members responsible for overseeing the University bookstore and mailroom operations. The University of Charleston is a dynamic private institution that emphasizes a learner-centric, outcomes-focused philosophy, with a strong commitment to innovation and applied professional programs. With a diverse student body of 2,800 enrolled in various associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs, UC is recognized as a doctoral/professional university. The institution is located in Charleston, WV, the state capital, and has an additional campus in Beckley, WV, along with multiple online programs. The university also sponsors 19 intercollegiate sports and actively recruits diverse students from over 40 states and 40 countries. The city of Charleston and the state of West Virginia offer a wealth of outdoor recreation options, an affordable cost of living, and welcoming communities that embrace individuals from all walks of life. The Vice President of Communications and Marketing will play a crucial role in shaping the university's public image and ensuring effective communication strategies that resonate with both internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Oversee brand management to build brand equity
• Develop and implement a strategic marketing and communications plan
• Perform an annual review and evaluation of marketing plan and strategies
• Direct the development of digital strategies including search engine optimization, social media, and email marketing campaigns
• Oversee content marketing including video, print, and publications
• Develop and execute recruiting strategies in collaboration with the Admissions Department
• Develop and execute friend-raising strategies in collaboration with the Development Office
• Oversee the ongoing evolution of the university's website
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to ensure proper university positioning
• Create, manage, and execute the university's communication and marketing budget
• Supervise and evaluate professional staff
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications or related field required
• Master's degree in marketing, communications or related field preferred
• Seven years of job-related experience; familiarity with higher education a plus
• Experience in strategic communications and marketing planning
• Ability to analyze and interpret data
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage programs and projects
• Ability to proactively solve problems
• Advanced understanding of marketing channels (e.g., email, print, web, media, etc.)