"Executive Director of Communications and Marketing"

At the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television we are committed to being a world-renowned interdisciplinary professional hub, dedicated to cultivating exceptional humanistic storytellers, trailblazing industry leaders, and insightful scholars. Rooted in our rich heritage as a top-tier entertainment and performing arts institution, we champion diverse and innovative voices that have the power to enlighten, captivate, and usher in transformative change for a brighter future. By seamlessly blending the study and creation of live performance, film, television, and the digital arts through our groundbreaking curriculum, we offer not just education, but experiences. We take pride in our doctoral pursuits in theater, performance studies, cinema, and media studies. Our mission is to inspire, engage, and challenge the next generation of entertainment and academic leaders to create a more inspired and inclusive world.

The Executive Director of Communications and Marketing is the chief strategist and thought leader for all internal and external communications and marketing initiatives, for UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television (TFT). Reporting directly to the Dean, this position serves as a senior advisor on storytelling, media relations, event strategy, and brand strategy—translating TFT's academic and artistic excellence into compelling narratives that engage students, faculty, alumni, donors, and industry partners. In alignment with UCLA's strategic plan to maximize global reach, deepen engagement, and advance institutional effectiveness, the Executive Director will elevate TFT's visibility as a catalyst for innovation in the arts and public humanities. The role will also reflect UCLA's brand pillars—from championing opportunities for students and faculty, to projecting a trailblazing spirit in navigating industry shifts, to celebrating the versatile influence and inspired inclusive excellence of TFT's creative community. The Executive Director oversees communications, marketing and signature programming; drives digital strategy and content; manages external media relations and internal community engagement; and ensures that all messaging embodies TFT's commitment to creativity, innovation, and inclusive excellence. This leader will position TFT as a premier global destination for arts education and research, amplifying UCLA's impact across local, regional, national, and international audiences.

*UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common. Visit UC Benefit package to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.

Qualifications

• 10 years Demonstrated experience leading strategic communications, marketing, and events for complex organizations, preferably in higher education or arts/media (Required)
• Expertise in media relations, including pitching stories, managing press relationships, and preparing executives for interviews (Required)
• Experience in speechwriting for senior leadership and internal communications (Required)
• Strong knowledge of digital platforms, content management systems, and social media (Required)
• Proven ability to translate institutional goals into compelling narratives for diverse audiences (Required)
• Superior writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple platforms (Required)
• Experience supervising staff and managing budgets (Required)
• Commitment to EDI principles in communications and team culture (Required)
• Familiarity with entertainment and media industry trends and constraints (Preferred)
• Experience with fundraising communications and alumni engagement (Preferred)
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and marketing analytics tools (Preferred)
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management (Preferred)
• Background in event production and venue management (Preferred)

Education, Licenses, Certifications & Personal Affiliations

• Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field (or equivalent experience) (Required)
• Master's Degree Master’s degree or advanced coursework in communications, marketing, or arts administration. (Preferred)

Special Conditions for Employment

• Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
• Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.

Schedule

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Union/Policy Covered

99-Policy Covered