Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Communications

Concordia University is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and in the world.Position SummaryThe Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Communications for Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor, in alignment with the universities Lutheran (LC-MS) mission and strategic goals, will lead a high performing, cross functional team, including individuals dedicated to: marketing strategy, digital marketing, project management, content marketing, web and design, and strategic communications. The AVP of Marketing and Strategic Communications will drive digital-first marketing efforts, increase visibility, reputation, and foster engagement with stakeholders. This fulltime, salaried position serves as a leader in the Office of Enrollment and is housed in Mequon, WI. AVP of Marketing and Strategic Communications reports directly to the Vice President of Enrollment and Chief Strategy Officer.Job Duties & ResponsibilitiesDevelop, execute, and communicate a clear vision for marketing and communication strategy that aligns with the CUW and CUAA mission, with emphasis on enrollment and bottom-line fiscal growthOversee implementation of marketing and communication initiatives; including unified branding and messaging while tailoring marketing initiatives to distinct audiences and media channels, including website, social media, publications, and advertising campaignsLead digital marketing initiatives with a focus on utilizing video, web, and social media platforms; while ensuring integrity of Concordia's unique brand positioningLead a goal-oriented team of passionate marketing professionals across two campusesTrack and report on key metrics and outcomes; ensuring marketing and communication efforts are data-drivenEstablish and maintain relationships with multiple contractors, vendors, and consultants that support aligning marketing and communication efforts across the UniversityWork across internal departments on market research projects impacting program development and continuation planning to promote visibility and enhance national and international reputationsCollaborate with academic, enrollment, and operational leaders on critical strategic initiativesOversee strategic communications team, including public and media relations, assisting them with identifying goals for media exposure and earned media impressionsServe as the primary point of contact for external media relations and manage crisis communications when necessaryOther duties as assignedKnowledge, Skills, & AbilitiesA history of successful collaboration with multiple constituencies internal and externalExpertise in media buying (both digital and traditional)Strong knowledge of digital marketing, including, but not limited to: all aspects of Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Search Engine Optimization (SEO), paid social media advertising, and programmatic ad buyingWell-developed communication skills and strong eye for both print and digital designDemonstrated ability in planning, execution, and measurement of integrated marketing and communications strategiesStrong budget management capabilitiesAble to conduct market research initiativesFunctional understanding of influencer marketing initiativesSelf-directed learner, self-motivator, data-driven with an ability to innovate across diverse platformsPassion for the Concordia's mission and commitment to the shared Lutheran mission of CUW and CUAA, with a focus on integrating faith into marketing strategiesSupportive of the mission and values of Concordia University Wisconsin/Ann Arbor and the Education & Experience10 years of experience in the marketing, communications, sales, or enrollment management fields preferably in higher education or a faith-based organization. Proven experience in managing a successful digital marketing, social media management, SEO/SEM, and video production department. A bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, or commensurate professional experienceCompensation & BenefitsThis is a full-time, exempt (salary) position. The starting wage may be determined upon education and/or experience. Concordia University benefit options include, but are not limited to the following:Health, Dental and Vision InsurancePersonal Spending Account, Flexible Spending Account, and/or Health Savings AccountDisability and Survivor PlanRetirement Pension PlanRetirement 403(b) Savings PlanBasic Life and Supplemental Life InsuranceAccidental Death and Dismemberment CoverageCritical Illness and Accident InsuranceTuition waiver benefits (available for employees and their qualified dependents)Application InstructionsTo receive full consideration, all applicants are asked to complete and submit an online employment application through the page. To begin, please click the Apply Now section on the job page and then click the Apply For This Position button to begin the application process.Equal Opportunity EmployerIt is the policy of CU to provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.The University will not discriminate against or harass any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, pregnancy, national origin (including ancestry), citizenship status, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, gender, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.However, CU is an institution of the LCMS and, to the extent allowed by law, CU reserves the right to give preference in employment based on religion. In addition, preference in holding certain employment positions is given to ordained or rostered ministers of the LCMS. Based on a religious tenet, CU recognizes only male, LCMS ordained Ministers of the Gospel, but recognizes both male and female LCMS Rostered Ministers of the Gospel.The Human Resources Department has been appointed to manage the equal employment opportunity program, including all equal employment opportunity activities, as required by federal, state and local agencies. If any employee or applicant for employment believes this policy has been violated, he/she must contact the Director of Human Resources.Concordia University is a HLC accredited, co-educational, liberal arts school offering more than 70 undergraduate majors, over 40 master's degree programs, and 4 doctoral programs. There are also a variety of accelerated evening and e-learning programs.