Chief Communications Officer
University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
About the Job
Job Code: 9365MC
Recommended Salary Range for CLA: $170,000 - $200,000
Reports to: The Dean of the College of Liberal Arts
As the College of Liberal Arts' Chief Communications Officer (CCO), you’ll lead a talented team in crafting a comprehensive, integrated marketing communications strategy that amplifies the college’s awareness, understanding, engagement and impact across Minnesota, the nation and around the world. You’ll serve as a key advisor to the Dean and collegiate leadership, developing innovative marketing communication strategies to highlight the groundbreaking research, world‑class faculty, and extraordinary students who make the CLA a global leader in liberal arts education.
The CCO serves as the college’s lead brand and identity architect, responsible for the development and successful implementation of strategies that position the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) to all internal and external stakeholders. Primary responsibilities include leading a talented marketing communications team, unifying operations, fostering a culture of trust, and reimagining how internal and external communications can drive the College’s mission forward. By partnering with collegiate offices and University Marketing Communications, the CCO bridges silos, enhances information flow and ensures a consistent narrative across all platforms. The CCO will act as a catalyst for change by assessing and integrating collegiate marketing communications operations, aligning resources with strategy, and cultivating a high‑performing, unified team. The CCO will develop and execute an integrated marketing communications strategy that aligns and supports the University’s brand, communications and enrollment marketing strategies and drives external engagement, student recruitment, and engagement with donors, alumni and external partners. Key focus areas include developing and implementing a collegiate internal and leadership communications plan that aligns with the CLA’s long‑term strategic goals, utilizing analytics to guide decision‑making so that communication strategies serve the broader collegiate and University vision, mission and strategic roadmap.
Key Strategic Responsibilities
College Identity & Brand Strategy Planning
– Create and lead a bold, college‑wide communications and marketing vision and strategy that elevates the College of Liberal Arts’ (CLA’s) brand, defines CLA’s competitive advantage, strengthens its reputation, and drives meaningful engagement across audiences. The successful candidate will develop and execute an integrated communications strategy to introduce the college’s new strategic plan to internal and external stakeholders. That strategy will include development of a CLA brand and marketing communications strategy. It will champion the value of a University of Minnesota liberal arts education, and showcase the college’s academic excellence, achievements and future direction. Key performance indicators include advancing enrollment growth, fundraising success, talent recruitment and retention, and engagement among stakeholders. Partner with collegiate offices and the Dean’s cabinet to promote the CLA’s academic programs, research and major events to diverse audiences, including prospective students, alumni, benefactors and external stakeholders.
Strategic Enrollment Marketing Communications Planning
– Partner with the Chief Student Success Officer (CSSO) and University Marketing Communications to translate recruitment and enrollment goals into tailored, high‑impact marketing communication strategies. Leverage collegiate and University marketing communications capabilities, resources and methods to articulate the unique value proposition of CLA to prospective students and families.
Research & Impact Positioning
– Collaborate with the Associate Dean for Research (ORGP) and the Associate Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, Community Engagement and Equity (DICEE) and University Marketing Communications to elevate the college’s profile as a premier research institution and an engaged community partner. Develop communication strategies to amplify faculty discovery, scholarly achievements and artistic work to enhance national reputation and public engagement as outlined in the strategic plan.
Executive Leadership & Operational Alignment
– Provide mentorship and high‑level direction to the marketing communications team. Lead and facilitate a nimble workplan that aligns creative output and resource allocations to advance the actions and objectives within the University and College 5‑year strategic plan. Ensure that external and internal communication strategies are aligned with the college’s vision and strategic priorities.
External Relations, Crisis Communication, and Advising on Sensitive Matters
– Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to the Dean and other collegiate leaders on sensitive communication matters, including handling crisis communications and issue management planning in collaboration with the Strategic Communications team within University Marketing Communications. Serve as the lead collegiate marketing, media and public relations manager, including coordinating with journalists and collegiate partners to respond to media inquiries. Manage and review internal and external communications for senior leadership.
Skills & Competencies
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to independently and collaboratively drive initiatives forward.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; must be able to build trust, manage up and across, and engage with a broad range of stakeholders.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to assimilate complex information (especially academic and technical concepts) and translate it into clear, compelling public narratives.
Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
Proficiency in digital marketing tools, web content management systems, graphic design software, and social media strategy.
Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including the dean’s leadership team, University Marketing Communications, external and internal partner units, and CLA faculty, staff and students.
Ability to quickly adjust to changing priorities and situations. Strong problem‑solving abilities, resourcefulness and ingenuity.
Ability to maintain the confidentiality of privileged information and perform a range of duties that require sensitivity, independent judgment, flexibility, and discretion. High degree of professionalism, integrity, and dependability.
High degree of proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Gemini), Zoom, and other productivity/collaboration tools.
Ability to collaborate with and in some cases convene teams that include participants from other areas of the unit and organization to achieve common goals to support the mission of the College of Liberal Arts.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
BA/BS degree in Strategic Communication, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field plus a minimum of 12 years of progressive, professional experience and demonstrated success in strategic communications of increasing scope, with some experience at a public agency, mission‑driven organization, or with a large, complex organization.
Demonstrated experience developing and executing integrated marketing and communications strategies and managing branding within a complex organizational environment.
Exceptional written and verbal communication, editing, and proofreading skills, with the ability to adapt messaging for different audiences.
Excellent presentation and relationship‑building skills, including a proven ability to work effectively with an intellectually, culturally, linguistically, and ethnically diverse workforce.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Strategic Communication, Marketing, Business, Journalism, or a related field.
12 years or more of progressively responsible experience in strategic marketing, brand management, and communications, preferably in higher education, corporate or mission‑driven organizations with at least five years in a senior leadership role supervising full‑time employees.
Proven experience in executive communications, media relations, and crisis/issues management.
Demonstrated success in leading cross‑functional teams through coordination of complex marketing and branding campaigns and the many stakeholders involved in the campaign’s design and execution.
Proven experience leading digital marketing strategies, including analytics, website governance, and social media platform management.
Knowledge of higher education practices and the ability to acquire knowledge in a short period of time.
Strong understanding of how communications and marketing integrate with fundraising and legislative affairs.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $170,000 – $200,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type: P&A Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.
How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
Applications are confidential to the search committee and should include:
A CV or resume
A letter of interest addressing the key strategic responsibilities
Please note, we will request five references if selected to move forward in a single PDF document.
References will not be contacted without permission from candidates.
Inquiries regarding this opportunity may be directed to:
Elisia Cohen, Chair, Search Committee; director of the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication
Jennie Robinson Kloos, Senior Director of Operations; College of Liberal Arts
For full consideration, applications should be received by
March 26, 2026 . The position will remain open until filled. This role requires a consistent onsite presence, complemented by executive flexibility for some remote work.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624‑8647.
Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world‑renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies and arts, nonprofit and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Recommended Salary Range for CLA: $170,000 - $200,000
Reports to: The Dean of the College of Liberal Arts
As the College of Liberal Arts' Chief Communications Officer (CCO), you’ll lead a talented team in crafting a comprehensive, integrated marketing communications strategy that amplifies the college’s awareness, understanding, engagement and impact across Minnesota, the nation and around the world. You’ll serve as a key advisor to the Dean and collegiate leadership, developing innovative marketing communication strategies to highlight the groundbreaking research, world‑class faculty, and extraordinary students who make the CLA a global leader in liberal arts education.
The CCO serves as the college’s lead brand and identity architect, responsible for the development and successful implementation of strategies that position the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) to all internal and external stakeholders. Primary responsibilities include leading a talented marketing communications team, unifying operations, fostering a culture of trust, and reimagining how internal and external communications can drive the College’s mission forward. By partnering with collegiate offices and University Marketing Communications, the CCO bridges silos, enhances information flow and ensures a consistent narrative across all platforms. The CCO will act as a catalyst for change by assessing and integrating collegiate marketing communications operations, aligning resources with strategy, and cultivating a high‑performing, unified team. The CCO will develop and execute an integrated marketing communications strategy that aligns and supports the University’s brand, communications and enrollment marketing strategies and drives external engagement, student recruitment, and engagement with donors, alumni and external partners. Key focus areas include developing and implementing a collegiate internal and leadership communications plan that aligns with the CLA’s long‑term strategic goals, utilizing analytics to guide decision‑making so that communication strategies serve the broader collegiate and University vision, mission and strategic roadmap.
Key Strategic Responsibilities
College Identity & Brand Strategy Planning
– Create and lead a bold, college‑wide communications and marketing vision and strategy that elevates the College of Liberal Arts’ (CLA’s) brand, defines CLA’s competitive advantage, strengthens its reputation, and drives meaningful engagement across audiences. The successful candidate will develop and execute an integrated communications strategy to introduce the college’s new strategic plan to internal and external stakeholders. That strategy will include development of a CLA brand and marketing communications strategy. It will champion the value of a University of Minnesota liberal arts education, and showcase the college’s academic excellence, achievements and future direction. Key performance indicators include advancing enrollment growth, fundraising success, talent recruitment and retention, and engagement among stakeholders. Partner with collegiate offices and the Dean’s cabinet to promote the CLA’s academic programs, research and major events to diverse audiences, including prospective students, alumni, benefactors and external stakeholders.
Strategic Enrollment Marketing Communications Planning
– Partner with the Chief Student Success Officer (CSSO) and University Marketing Communications to translate recruitment and enrollment goals into tailored, high‑impact marketing communication strategies. Leverage collegiate and University marketing communications capabilities, resources and methods to articulate the unique value proposition of CLA to prospective students and families.
Research & Impact Positioning
– Collaborate with the Associate Dean for Research (ORGP) and the Associate Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, Community Engagement and Equity (DICEE) and University Marketing Communications to elevate the college’s profile as a premier research institution and an engaged community partner. Develop communication strategies to amplify faculty discovery, scholarly achievements and artistic work to enhance national reputation and public engagement as outlined in the strategic plan.
Executive Leadership & Operational Alignment
– Provide mentorship and high‑level direction to the marketing communications team. Lead and facilitate a nimble workplan that aligns creative output and resource allocations to advance the actions and objectives within the University and College 5‑year strategic plan. Ensure that external and internal communication strategies are aligned with the college’s vision and strategic priorities.
External Relations, Crisis Communication, and Advising on Sensitive Matters
– Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to the Dean and other collegiate leaders on sensitive communication matters, including handling crisis communications and issue management planning in collaboration with the Strategic Communications team within University Marketing Communications. Serve as the lead collegiate marketing, media and public relations manager, including coordinating with journalists and collegiate partners to respond to media inquiries. Manage and review internal and external communications for senior leadership.
Skills & Competencies
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to independently and collaboratively drive initiatives forward.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; must be able to build trust, manage up and across, and engage with a broad range of stakeholders.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to assimilate complex information (especially academic and technical concepts) and translate it into clear, compelling public narratives.
Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
Proficiency in digital marketing tools, web content management systems, graphic design software, and social media strategy.
Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including the dean’s leadership team, University Marketing Communications, external and internal partner units, and CLA faculty, staff and students.
Ability to quickly adjust to changing priorities and situations. Strong problem‑solving abilities, resourcefulness and ingenuity.
Ability to maintain the confidentiality of privileged information and perform a range of duties that require sensitivity, independent judgment, flexibility, and discretion. High degree of professionalism, integrity, and dependability.
High degree of proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Gemini), Zoom, and other productivity/collaboration tools.
Ability to collaborate with and in some cases convene teams that include participants from other areas of the unit and organization to achieve common goals to support the mission of the College of Liberal Arts.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
BA/BS degree in Strategic Communication, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field plus a minimum of 12 years of progressive, professional experience and demonstrated success in strategic communications of increasing scope, with some experience at a public agency, mission‑driven organization, or with a large, complex organization.
Demonstrated experience developing and executing integrated marketing and communications strategies and managing branding within a complex organizational environment.
Exceptional written and verbal communication, editing, and proofreading skills, with the ability to adapt messaging for different audiences.
Excellent presentation and relationship‑building skills, including a proven ability to work effectively with an intellectually, culturally, linguistically, and ethnically diverse workforce.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Strategic Communication, Marketing, Business, Journalism, or a related field.
12 years or more of progressively responsible experience in strategic marketing, brand management, and communications, preferably in higher education, corporate or mission‑driven organizations with at least five years in a senior leadership role supervising full‑time employees.
Proven experience in executive communications, media relations, and crisis/issues management.
Demonstrated success in leading cross‑functional teams through coordination of complex marketing and branding campaigns and the many stakeholders involved in the campaign’s design and execution.
Proven experience leading digital marketing strategies, including analytics, website governance, and social media platform management.
Knowledge of higher education practices and the ability to acquire knowledge in a short period of time.
Strong understanding of how communications and marketing integrate with fundraising and legislative affairs.
Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $170,000 – $200,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type: P&A Staff
Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
University HSA contributions
Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
Employee wellbeing program
Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
Financial counseling services
Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.
How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
Applications are confidential to the search committee and should include:
A CV or resume
A letter of interest addressing the key strategic responsibilities
Please note, we will request five references if selected to move forward in a single PDF document.
References will not be contacted without permission from candidates.
Inquiries regarding this opportunity may be directed to:
Elisia Cohen, Chair, Search Committee; director of the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication
Jennie Robinson Kloos, Senior Director of Operations; College of Liberal Arts
For full consideration, applications should be received by
March 26, 2026 . The position will remain open until filled. This role requires a consistent onsite presence, complemented by executive flexibility for some remote work.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624‑8647.
Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world‑renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies and arts, nonprofit and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).
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