Lead Director of Marketing and Communications Office of the Vice Provost for Student Success UTK at University of Tennessee

DescriptionThe Lead Director of Marketing and Communications leads the development and execution of compelling marketing initiatives oversees brand management and drives storytelling efforts that elevate the Division of Student Success (DSS) at the University of Tennessee Knoxville (UTK). This leader directs a high-performing communications and marketing team that supports divisional initiatives and elevating the student experience. The position reports directly to the Chief of Staff.As a member of the Student Success Leadership Team the position collaborates closely with divisional leaders and campus partners to advance institutional priorities through strategic data-informed and audience-centered marketing and communications alignment with the universitys vision for an unparalleled student experience this position drives brand alignment enhances the student and stakeholder experience and fosters engagement across internal and external audiences including students families faculty staff alumni donors and community partners.In addition this role oversees and approves all Division of Student Success communication flows including those executed through division and enterprise systems (e.g. Salesforce Banner Slate Touchnet etc.)ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Team Management:Provide visionary leadership for the Divisions integrated marketing and communications strategy. Supervise mentor and evaluate a professional staff of six and through direct reports oversee a team of student interns fostering a culture of innovation accountability and collaboration. Build team capacity through coaching professional development and clear performance expectations. Promote a consistent professional and collaborative image for the Division and the University.Marketing & Communications Strategy:Develop and implement comprehensive measurable marketing and communications plans for all DSS offices and initiatives encompassing advertising media relations publications branding digital and social media video print and more. Direct high-visibility marketing efforts for key programs and priorities and partner with unit leaders to translate strategic goals into actionable creative campaigns that drive engagement and measurable outcomes.Manage divisional communications budgets and evaluate ROI through analytics and assessment frameworks. Lead the development and promotion of divisional events campaigns and programs that elevate the student experience to the next level.Cross-Campus Collaboration:The Lead Director of Marketing and Communication serves as the DSS representative and chief liaison in working with key campus partners on communication strategy and execution. This role works collaboratively with the Office of Communications and Marketing (OCM) College Communicators Enrollment Management Student Life Academic Affairs Advancement and the Offices of the Chancellor and Provost to ensure coordinated messaging and consistent branding. Serve as a communications advisor and thought partner to the Division of Student Success Leadership Team.Technology Data & Innovation:Serve as the Divisions lead representative and strategic point person for Salesforce Marketing Cloud and other data-driven marketing technologies that enhance communication efficiency and personalization. Develop workflows and content strategies that strengthen outreach engagement and data integrity. Leverage digital tools and analytics to guide decision-making measure impact and drive continuous improvement. Collaborate with campus partners agencies and vendors to deliver integrated high-impact campaigns that advance flagship initiatives.Other duties as assigned.QualificationsRequired QualificationsEducation:Bachelors degree in Marketing Communications Journalism Public Relations or a related field.Experience:Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in strategic marketing and communications including at least 3 years in a supervisory capacity.Proven success in leading integrated marketing and communications strategies in a complex organization.Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite Microsoft Office 365 and Canva.Familiarity with web-based content management systems (CMS).Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and measure marketing impact through analytics.Knowledge Skills Abilities:Strong strategic creative and analytical thinking skills.Demonstrated ability to develop and execute integrated multi-channel marketing campaigns craft strategic communications plans and manage brand identity across diverse platforms to enhance organizational visibility and engagement.Excellent written verbal and visual communication abilities.Proven leadership and interpersonal skills to motivate teams and build partnerships.Ability to manage multiple priorities meet deadlines and maintain confidentiality.Masters DegreePreferred QualificationsEducation:Masters degree in a relevant discipline.Experience:Experience in higher education.Proficiency with Salesforce Marketing Cloud (CRM) and data analysis tools (SQL preferred).Knowledge Skills Abilities:Skill in recruiting training and supervising staff demonstrating strong leadership abilities.Ability to work effectively with university leadership donors and other stakeholders supported by exceptional communication skills.Compensation and BenefitsUT market range: MR13Anticipated hiring range: Minimum $100000Find more information on the UT Market Range structurehereFind more information on UT BenefitshereApplication InstructionsTo express interest please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted.ResumeCover LetterList of 3 Professional ReferencesRequired Experience:Director Key Skills Crisis Management,Marketing,Public Relations,Fundraising,Media Relations,Constant Contact,Strategic Planning,Social Media Management,Team Management,Public Speaking,Wordpress,Writing Skills Employment Type : Full-Time Experience: years Vacancy: 1