Associate Vice President, Marketing Communications

Wilkes University invites applicants for an Associate Vice President of Marketing Communications. A cabinet-level role that reports directly to the President, this position is responsible for the vision, direction and implementation of all University marketing and communications to enhance the brand, reputation and enrollment of the institution.

The AVP of Marketing Communications will direct the overarching marketing communications strategy for the University, including brand management, digital and traditional marketing, creative services, media and public relations, social media, publications and other channels. The role is both strategic and tactical, leading a department that serves the internal campus community and external audiences.

The AVP will collaborate with a wide range of campus partners to understand needs, identify opportunities and offer creative solutions that align with, and ultimately advance, the strategic goals of the University. The successful candidate will provide communications guidance to University leadership and ensure that University messaging is clear and consistent across all platforms and channels.

Working closely with the director of communications, the AVP aids in media pitching, responses and interview coordination and serves as chief University spokesperson when needed. In addition, this individual should have demonstrated success preparing and executing crisis communications, handling complicated and sensitive issues and displaying flexibility in changing situations.

The AVP will oversee a team of creative professionals in a high-volume workflow department. As the leader of the marketing communications unit, the individual will provide direct guidance on routine and strategic initiatives, balance the needs of a diverse campus community, measure the effectiveness of campaigns and identify new opportunities to further the brand. In addition, they must simultaneously manage multiple streams of work; effectively prioritize departmental tasks, time and resources; and effectively manage departmental budgets.

A bachelor's degree in marketing, communications or a related field is required. Master's degree preferred. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in marketing, communications, public relations, editorial, enrollment or similar roles in a competitive marketplace; experience leading and/or assembling teams; Prior higher education experience is ideal. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Wilkes University is an independent, comprehensive university dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts, sciences, and selected professional programs. The University has a little over 2,000 students at the undergraduate level and over 3,000 students at the graduate and first professional levels.

Its institutional focus is on developing strong mentoring relationships with each of its students and contributing vitally to economic development of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The University is located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, a revitalized city that is located on the lovely Susquehanna River and is within two and one-half hours driving distance of New York City and Philadelphia.

To apply, visit https://wilkesuniversitycareers.applicantpro.com/jobs/. Please be sure to include a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae and three references. Applications will be accepted through September 1, 2023 with the successful candidate joining Wilkes by November 2023.

Wilkes University is constantly seeking to become a more diverse community and to enhance its capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings. The University strongly encourages applications from persons with diverse backgrounds. Wilkes University does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

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