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University of Illinois

Director of Brand and Marketing - Hybrid

University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, us, 61803


Director of Brand and Marketing - Hybrid

Vice Pres External Rel & CommHybrid - Work ModelPosting Category:

(Sponsorship for Work authorization is not available for this position.)

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Strategic Communications and Marketing, the Director of Brand and Marketing will lead brand and marketing strategy development and oversee the execution of the University of Illinois System's external and internal marketing, marketing communications, and brand development initiatives with a focus on stakeholder influence and reputation enhancement. The Director conducts marketing and branding related research, leads the evolution of and ensures adherence to brand standards, oversees strategic management of digital channels including web and social media as well as management of offline marketing materials ensuring brand alignment in visual, voice, tone, and style. Manages a team of professionals supporting this work and marketing communications work across System Offices.

As a seasoned communications and marketing strategist, the Director will provide creative oversight for all marketing and branding initiatives. This includes developing and implementing innovative campaigns that align with the University's strategic goals, ensuring brand consistency across all platforms, and fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration within the team. The Director will possess a deep understanding of the marketing landscape, emerging trends, and best practices to drive impactful results.

Additionally, the Director will:

Develop and execute comprehensive marketing plans to support the University's strategic priorities.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement integrated marketing campaigns.

Measure and analyze campaign performance to identify opportunities for improvement.

Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record of success in developing and implementing creative marketing campaigns, as well as a deep understanding of the higher education landscape.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of marketing and creative professionals. Foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

In partnership with the AVP, Strategic Communications and Marketing, develop and execute comprehensive marketing and communications strategies aligned with the University of Illinois System's strategic goals. Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify opportunities and challenges. Ensure brand consistency and messaging across all platforms and channels.

Develop and execute integrated marketing campaigns that leverage traditional and digital channels. Create compelling content that resonates with target audiences. Optimize campaigns for maximum reach and impact.

Serve as a strategic thought leader and provide expert guidance on brand and marketing initiatives across the System. Identify emerging trends and best practices in the higher education and marketing industries. Develop and implement innovative marketing campaigns that drive engagement and impact.

Leverage data and insights to inform decision-making and measure campaign performance. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and track progress towards goals. Analyze campaign results to identify areas for improvement and optimization.

Direct and be responsible for the development, design, and maintenance of marketing performance reporting. Leverage data visualization tools to create compelling and actionable reports. Communicate insights to key stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.

Build and maintain strong relationships with marketing vendors and partners. Ensure that vendor performance aligns with the University's goals and objectives. Negotiate contracts and manage budgets effectively.

Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among marketing and communications professionals across the System. Identify opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and knowledge exchange. Develop and implement best practices for marketing and communications.

Provide strategic leadership and creative oversight for all marketing and branding initiatives. Ensure that the University's brand identity is consistently reflected in all materials and communications.

Collaborate with media relations, executive communications, and government relations teams to ensure a unified and cohesive approach.

Evaluate and select marketing tools and technologies to optimize efficiency and effectiveness. Stay up-to-date on industry trends and emerging technologies.

Serve on committees/teams as assigned. Represent the marketing and communications department at key meetings and events. Contribute to the development of the University's overall communications strategy.

Perform other assigned duties appropriate for the position of Director.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

Bachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, PR or a related field.

Preferred:

Master's degree in a related field.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

Ten years of professional level marketing and communications experience.

Proven ability to lead and manage a high-performing team of marketing and creative professionals.

Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex projects.

Demonstrated digital marketing experience across paid and owned.

Experience working with and managing external agencies and freelance support.

Ability to use independent and sound judgment in evaluating information and the ability to communicate effectively with personnel from University of Illinois departments, units, colleges, universities, and system offices.

Demonstrated ability to build strong, solution-oriented, collaborative relationships across the system.

Familiarity with creative, project management, and marketing tools.

Strong computer skills specifically demonstrated experience with online tools, AI, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook) Adobe suite.

Excellent problem-solving skills that require the ability to identify problems, gather data, establish facts, and present valid conclusions in response to problems.

Ability to establish measurable goals and objectives for themselves and others that contribute to organizational and departmental success.

Experience developing strategic communications/marketing plans.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality are imperative.

Staff supervision and mentoring skills.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

This is a Full Time academic professional position. The expected start date is 10/28/2024. System Office jobs such as this one are not eligible for the Referral Program.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES & DEADLINE INFORMATIONFor full consideration, please click

APPLY NOW

on this page to submit an application, references and cover letter through our job board by 6 pm on 10/7/2024.

System Human Resource Services(217) 333-2600erhr@uillinois.edu

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the System Human Resource Services, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at 217-333-2600, or by emailing ADAaccessibility@uillinois.edu.

Requisition ID:

9000732Job Category:

Academic ProfessionalCampus Location:

Urbana

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