Executive Director of Marketing and Communications

Muskingum University invites applications for the position of Executive Director of Marketing and Communications. The successful candidate will be a results-oriented and collaborative leader, responsible for executing integrated marketing and communications initiatives that support enrollment growth, institutional visibility, and stakeholder engagement. Leading the day-to-day operations of marketing and communications, this position translates institutional strategy into high-impact marketing campaigns and communications.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Campaign Execution & Marketing Operations

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of integrated marketing campaigns aligned with institutional enrollment and branding goals.
• Implement recruitment, engagement, and awareness campaigns across multiple channels, including digital, print, email, and social media.
• Manage marketing calendars, timelines, and workflows to ensure timely and effective delivery of projects.
• Lead the transition from a request-based service model to campaign-based planning, including standardized project intake, prioritization tied to enrollment goals, and defined service-level expectations for campus partners.

Enrollment Marketing Support

• Partner closely with Admission and Student Financial Services to develop and implement recruitment and yield campaigns.
• Support segmentation and personalization strategies defined by senior leadership.
• Scale digital lead generation, search engine optimization, and conversion-focused campaigns supporting undergraduate, graduate, and adult learning enrollment growth.
• Ensure that messaging developed by the marketing team is consistently reflected in CRM communication flows, including inquiry follow-up and yield communications.

Content, Creative & Brand Implementation

• Oversee development of creative assets, ensuring consistency with institutional brand standards and messaging.
• Supervise content creation across platforms (web, print, digital, social), ensuring quality, clarity, and audience alignment.
• Maintain brand integrity through consistent application of visual identity, tone, and messaging.
• Establish shared content ownership with academic programs, Advancement, and other campus partners by refining, packaging, and amplifying content provided by campus partners.
• Prioritize outcome-focused storytelling, including alumni success, career outcomes, and employer partnership stories, in collaboration with Advancement and the Impact Center.

Digital Marketing & Channel Management

• Manage the University’s digital presence, including website content, social media channels, email marketing, and digital advertising campaigns.
• Coordinate updates, enhancements, and user experience improvements for digital properties.

Project Management & Team Leadership

• Supervise marketing and communications staff, including creative and digital team members.
• Establish clear workflows, priorities, and accountability for project delivery.
• Manage relationships with external vendors, agencies, and freelancers as needed.
• Ensure efficient use of resources and adherence to budgets.
• Partner with the department’s Project Manager on intake coordination, timeline development, and workflow tracking.

Data, Analytics & Performance Tracking

• Monitor campaign performance metrics (e.g., inquiries, engagement, conversion rates) and report outcomes to the Vice President.
• Use data insights to refine and improve ongoing campaigns and tactics.
• Support tracking of ROI for marketing activities and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.

Communications & Coordination

• Oversee institutional communications, including announcements, publications, and key messaging initiatives.
• Support media relations efforts and assist with communication needs as directed.
• Serve as a key liaison with campus partners to manage project requests and ensure alignment with institutional priorities.

The above statements reflect the general duties and responsibilities necessary to describe the major functions of the position and should not be considered a complete description of the essential functions of the position. This Job Description is not intended to be all inclusive. The employee will be assigned by the immediate supervisor to perform other duties as needed or to perform other related duties, including special projects.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5 years of progressive experience in marketing, communications, or related roles.
• Demonstrated success in executing integrated marketing campaigns and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of digital marketing tools, platforms, and best practices.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and project management skills.
• Experience supervising staff or leading project teams.
• Strong attention to detail and execution.
• Demonstrated success in project and workflow management.
• Ability to make data-informed decisions to optimize the work of the office.
• Strong collaborative and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated responsiveness and ability to adapt.
• Demonstrated effectiveness in brand stewardship.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications must include a cover letter describing the candidate’s experience in relation to the stated job responsibilities, a resume, and a list of 3 professional references and should be sent to careers@muskingum.edu. Please include the position title in the subject line of your email. This position will remain open until filled, with review of candidates to begin immediately.

Muskingum University actively seeks out and welcomes administrators and staff who are committed to excellence in student learning, consider the engagement of diverse viewpoints in the University’s educational programs and activities, and are committed to full inclusivity at the University. Muskingum University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals.

Muskingum University does not discriminate in its employment or educational programs or activities.