Assistant Vice President for University Communications

Concordia University Chicago (CUC) invites applications for the Full-Time, Exempt position of Assistant Vice President for University Communications. This position reports directly to the Sr. Vice President for University Advancement and is located in River Forest, Il.

The Assistant Vice President (AVP) for University Communications serves as the university's chief communications officer and spokesperson in coordination with the Office of the President. Reporting to the Senior Vice President for University Advancement, the AVP leads the Office of University Communications, providing strategic direction and centralized communications support across the university.

The AVP oversees internal and external communications, media relations, executive communications, crisis communications, and creative content development. This role includes collaboration with the University Advancement communications team to optimize the university's ability to secure resources and engage alumni and friends through strategic communications efforts. The AVP also works in a supportive capacity with marketing professionals to align messaging and brand presence with institutional goals.

University communications must be strategically aligned with Concordia University Chicago's mission, vision, and values. The successful candidate must support and uphold the theological identity and doctrinal beliefs of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) and ensure that all communications reflect the Christ-centered mission of the institution.

Responsibilities/Duties:

• Lead the Office of University Communications, managing staff and operations in support of university-wide communications needs. Oversight of internal workflows, project timelines, quality assurance, and team development.
• Serve as chief institutional communicator and strategic advisor on communication matters for the president and senior leadership.
• Oversee development and execution of strategic communication plans that support university goals, reputation management, and community engagement.
• Direct crisis communication planning and execution in collaboration with senior leadership, public safety, and outside advisors.
• Provide executive communication support including speechwriting, messaging, and public statements for the president and senior leaders.
• Maintain and strengthen media relations to increase university visibility through earned media coverage.
• Collaborate with internal partners, including enrollment and marketing teams, to ensure message consistency across platforms.
• Work closely with University Advancement communications to support fundraising and alumni engagement efforts.
• Collaborate with marketing, enrollment, and advancement units on the development of digital communications, including strategic use of social media, website content, and multimedia storytelling.
• Guide the production of major university publications and digital storytelling initiatives.
• Stay informed of and apply best practices in digital media, including social media strategy and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in communications.
• Develop and manage departmental budget; oversee external vendor relationships and contracts.
• Foster a team culture that emphasizes collaboration, service, creativity, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as a member of the University's Emergency Response Team (ERT)
• Other Duties as Assigned

Service and Communications

• Responsibilities may necessitate work in evenings and on weekends.
• Exhibit a service mentality toward all customers.
• All communication with customers is effective, professional, accurate and timely.
• Improve work performance and that of others by being receptive to and appropriately sharing information

Candidates must support and be committed to the mission and identity of Concordia University Chicago, a university of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS).

Minimum Required:

• Enthusiastic supporter of Lutheran higher education and Concordia University Chicago

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field required.
• Minimum 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications.
• Demonstrated success leading communications strategies and teams.
• Strong skills in writing, editing, and verbal communication.
• Experience in media relations and crisis communications.
• Advanced knowledge of social media platforms and the strategic use of AI in communication efforts.
• Familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems, and multimedia production.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to advise and work collaboratively with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and assignments with excellent organization, planning and attention to details in collaboration with others.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. The ability to prioritize and to consistently meet deadlines is essential.
• Ability to work both independently and in team settings.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

Preferred:

• Master's degree preferred.
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations preferred.

Compensation and Benefits:

(FULL-TIME) Starting range is dependent upon individual qualifications and experience. Concordia University Chicago benefit options include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending