"Director of Marketing and Communications"

Job Description

The Director of Marketing and Communications leads strategic marketing efforts to enhance the colleges reputation, increase enrollment, enhance alumni and industry engagement, promote its academic programs, and showcase research outcomes. This position is crucial in positioning Falk College as a leader in higher education and research. Collaborates closely with the Universitys central communications and marketing staff to ensure messaging aligns with the Universitys overarching communication and marketing plans, content strategy, and editorial calendar, and follows University brand standards (design, language, etc.), governance (digital, social media), and brand approach. Working with and in support of the Falk College Dean, faculty, and staff. This role is responsible for the direct supervision of an assistant communications director, a web specialist, and a digital content specialist.

Education and Experience

• Masters degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field preferred.
• 8+ years in marketing and communications, with 5+ years in leadership roles.
• Proven success in higher education marketing, preferably at research-focused institutions.

Skills and Knowledge

Key Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication
• Leadership and team management
• Digital marketing expertise (social media, SEO, analytics)
• Experience with CRM systems and marketing automation tools
• Proficiency in content management systems and email marketing platforms
• Brand management and development
• Budget management and strategic planning
• Crisis communication and reputation management

Technical Proficiencies

• Social media platforms (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)
• Analytics tools (Google Analytics, social media insights)
• CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Blackbaud)
• Digital advertising platforms
• Project management tools

Additional Requirements

• Understanding of higher education trends and research communication
• Ability to translate complex academic concepts for diverse audiences
• Willingness to work flexible hours as needed

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive marketing and communication strategies aligned with the colleges goals, overseeing all external and internal communications while managing brand identity.
• Plan and execute marketing campaigns for student recruitment, alumni engagement, and fundraising initiatives, analyzing data and metrics to optimize strategies and demonstrate ROI.
• Develop strategies to effectively communicate research outcomes to various stakeholders, including the academic community, industry partners, and the general public.
• Manage the marketing and communications budget while staying current with marketing trends in higher education and research communication.
• Handle crisis communication and reputation management as needed.
• Lead and manage a team of marketing and communications professionals, fostering collaboration and delegating tasks effectively.
• Collaborate with academic departments and the research office to showcase faculty and student achievements, particularly in research and innovation.

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.

The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the Universitys 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit www.syracuse.edu.