Director, Strategic Communications and Marketing

Director Of Strategic Communications And Marketing

The Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing designs and leads the Stigler Center's data-driven communications strategy, by leading marketing for Center initiatives, including the ProMarket.org publication and the Capitalisn't podcast. This role blends data-driven decision-making with creative storytelling to align messaging with the Center's mission, expand the Center's visibility and impact, and support media relations. The role requires a data-savvy strategist skilled in designing and executing comprehensive multi-channel marketing campaigns to ensure that the Center and its outlets engage target audiences and are viewed as integral sources on political economy, regulation, and other key focus areas.

Responsibilities:

• Designs and leads strategy for all external communications and marketing initiatives across the Stigler Center, including ProMarket.org publication, Capitalisn't podcast, and other Center initiatives and platforms. Prepares relevant strategic communications/marketing plans.
• Designs and leads data-informed tracking, measurement, and growth; leverages key metrics to refine strategy and demonstrate impact. Develops/presents related reports.
• Develops and executes media relations strategies and outreach to elevate the Center's visibility and impact; cultivates and manages relationships with journalists, including with the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence, and monitors citations/mentions.
• Plans the creation, execution, and measurement of promotional efforts in advance. Decides how to capitalize on breaking news and emerging trends.
• Coordinates closely with ProMarket and Capitalisn't teams to ensure communications/marketing strategic alignment and tactical and operational implementation.
• Guides visual and thematic consistency across platforms and initiatives.
• Manages communications staff, contractors, interns; coordinates with larger Center team.
• Writes and edits high-level content such as speeches, press releases, newsletters, event materials, etc.
• Liaise with Chicago Booth and UChicago teams on larger branding, promotion, and messaging; coordinate with external partners.
• Designs and executes paid and organic marketing campaigns; analyzes performance and optimize reach.
• Manages the communications budget and reporting, ensuring data-driven decision-making.
• Advises senior leadership and provides communications expertise to support high-level institutional strategy.
• Plans, develops, designs and implements the strategic and tactical marketing plans for a department or program. Directs, monitors and evaluates marketing communication and research programs.
• Maintains departmental priorities, allocates resources, and determines project direction in line with established priorities.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Certifications: ---

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree, Master's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, or related field.
• Experience: A minimum of five years of experience in communications and marketing. Higher education and/or nonprofit experience. A minimum three years of experience managing people and projects.

Preferred Competencies:

• Excellent writing and editorial skills; translate complex topics for broad audiences.
• Deep networks and contacts in media and news outlets across various channels, especially with outlets focused on finance, economics, business, and politics.
• Proven success designing and executing integrated marketing and branding campaigns.
• Deep understanding of content strategy, audience development, and digital analytics.
• Strong project management and leadership skills; work cross-functionally and independently.
• Handle multiple detailed tasks/projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines with frequent interruptions.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and diplomatically with colleagues, as well as with students, faculty, and corporate contacts in a multitude of communication methods, such as in person, email, and phone.
• Professional demeanor, including tact, discretion, and a customer service-oriented approach.

Working Conditions:

• This position is currently expected to work a minimum three days per week in the office.

Application Documents:

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)

When applying, the documents MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.