Chief Communications Officer
North Idaho College, Coeur D Alene, ID, United States
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https://summitsearchsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/NIC_Chief_CGRO_Profile.pdf
The Position NIC is looking for a dynamic, results-driven leader who can further shape the college’s voice, brand, and public presence. This executive directs all aspects of communications, marketing, government relations, and community engagement, leading media and crisis communications, strategic marketing, digital initiatives, and brand management. They oversee a high-performing team that executes integrated communications strategies, advances the college’s mission and strategic goals, and ensures consistent, compelling messaging across all internal and external audiences. With a strong presence among students, employees, community partners, and elected officials, this role establishes NIC as an innovative, forward-focused institution. The Chief Communications and Government Relations Officer has the authority and responsibility to execute bold strategies that reinforce NIC’s mission, values, and long-term vision.
Working for Nick Swayne, NIC’s President, means collaborating with a highly engaged and mission-driven leader who brings a strong background in strategic leadership, public service, and organizational development. A U.S. Army veteran with advanced degrees in public administration and strategic leadership, Dr. Swayne has focused his presidency on enhancing institutional stability, rebuilding enrollment momentum, and reinforcing the college’s commitment to student success and community partnership. His leadership has centered on renewing confidence in the college’s direction, strengthening workforce training focused on regional stakeholders, and advancing pathways that prepare students for meaningful careers and further academic achievement.
Professionals joining NIC have the opportunity to work under a president who values collaboration, accountability, and decisive, forward-moving leadership. Dr. Swayne emphasizes transparent communication, data-informed decision-making, and a culture of continuous improvement. Employees are encouraged to contribute ideas, engage in strategic initiatives, and participate in shaping the college’s future. For individuals seeking to make a tangible impact within a vibrant, relationship-focused institution, NIC offers the chance to work alongside a leader committed to growth, excellence, and long-term sustainability. This is an opportunity to engage in work that drives real progress, strengthens the college, and leaves a lasting impact on students and the region.
Responsibilities
Provides strategic assistance and advises the President and other college leaders regarding communications, marketing, community relations, and government relations. Contributes to institutional mission, vision, values, and policy development. Serves as a member of the President’s Cabinet.
Oversees the strategic development and implementation of a comprehensive, research-driven, results-oriented communications and marketing strategy that supports the college’s strategic plan, brand, and enrollment and advancement goals.
Serves as the college’s official spokesperson, leading media relations and representing the institution on internal and external matters, including community, legislative, crisis, and issues impacting the college’s public image.
Oversees integrated marketing, branding, and digital communications (web, social media, print, video) to ensure consistent, compelling messaging across all channels and audiences.
Responds to and resolves citizen inquiries and complaints, including editorials in media.
Ensures compliance with applicable laws and policies related to public records, public information, and government relations. Acts as the custodian of public records in researching and responding to requests for public records.
Maintains a thorough understanding of current laws, pending legislation, and related information in matters pertaining to communications, marketing, public and government relations that may directly or indirectly impact the college and provides recommendations to the President and other college leaders.
Leads the college's local, state, and federal government relations strategy, serving as a primary liaison to elected officials and agencies. Maintains close contact with and gathers information from appropriate community and governmental entities.
Builds and maintains strong relationships with community, business, industry, K-12, and higher education partners to advance the college's role in regional economic and workforce development. Maintains a strong presence in Idaho’s five northern counties, representing and promoting the college to external groups and organizations.
Oversees development of speeches, remarks, presentations, and key messages for the President and other leaders; plans and executes major announcements, press events, and high-visibility activities.
Leads the development and execution of the department’s mission, establishing strategic goals and objectives for communications, marketing, and government relations initiatives.
Develops and manages a high-performing communications and marketing team, including hiring, coaching, supervision, performance management, and professional development.
Maintains effective working relationships with other departments, agencies, and the public throughout the college's regional service area, as well as with officials of other state colleges and universities and appropriate institutions.
Maintains and pursues a positive, helpful, constructive attitude and work relationship with supervisor, college staff, students, and the community.
Represents the President as needed at State Board of Education, legislative, and other meetings as assigned.
Monitors, participates in, reports on, and assists with various economic development-related initiatives within the region as appropriate.
Coordinates special events as appropriate.
Performs other duties as assigned by the President.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a field related to the scope of the position, Master’s degree preferred.
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible upper-management experience in community relations, marketing, governmental relations, public relations and/or public administration; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in higher education or the public sector is preferred.
Knowledge of communications, marketing, and public relations principles and strategies that support institutional visibility and reputation.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal government relations processes and public policy environments.
Knowledge and understanding of higher education operations and the role of community colleges in serving students, workforce, and community needs.
Strong skills in developing and delivering clear, concise, and effective written and oral communications for diverse audiences.
Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to communicate diplomatically and build collaborative relationships across internal and external stakeholders.
Ability to speak and write persuasively on a wide range of topics.
Ability to prepare clear and well-organized documents such as briefings, reports, talking points, and presentations. Ability to analyze complex information, think critically, and evaluate alternative courses of action when developing solutions.
Ability to facilitate dialogue, gather input, and navigate differing perspectives toward constructive outcomes. Ability to travel occasionally by car and plane within the region and periodically out of state.
Proficient skills in the use of personal computers and applications, including MS Office, and current digital communication tools and platforms, including social media and web content management.
Communications and Marketing The Communications and Marketing Department at North Idaho College serves as the central hub for the college’s internal and external communications, ensuring all messaging is clear, consistent, and aligned with NIC’s mission, vision, and values. The department leads media relations, crisis communications, marketing, branding, and digital engagement while partnering with academic and administrative units to create targeted, high-impact content for students, employees, and the broader community. It also manages public records requests, internal communications channels, and the college’s visual and verbal identity, maintaining a cohesive and professional presence across all platforms. By integrating communications, marketing, and outreach, the department amplifies institutional initiatives, strengthens stakeholder engagement, and positions NIC as a trusted, innovative, and highly visible leader regionally and beyond.
Why Consider the Opportunity
Thrive in a Dynamic Environment:
Lead with flexibility, adapting strategies to meet evolving institutional and community needs.
Bold, Strategic Risk-Taking:
Drive priorities and initiatives proactively, pivoting as needed, to achieve key goals.
Principled Leadership:
Navigate evolving opportunities and relationships with integrity, accountability and confidence.
Community College Mission in Action:
Shape marketing and communications strategies that attract, engage and support students.
Campus-to-Community Connector:
Align internal strategy while amplifying NIC’s external presence with community, media and government partners.
Incredible Location & Quality of Life:
Join a vibrant lakefront campus in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and exceptional livability.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
https://summitsearchsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/NIC_Chief_CGRO_Profile.pdf
The Position NIC is looking for a dynamic, results-driven leader who can further shape the college’s voice, brand, and public presence. This executive directs all aspects of communications, marketing, government relations, and community engagement, leading media and crisis communications, strategic marketing, digital initiatives, and brand management. They oversee a high-performing team that executes integrated communications strategies, advances the college’s mission and strategic goals, and ensures consistent, compelling messaging across all internal and external audiences. With a strong presence among students, employees, community partners, and elected officials, this role establishes NIC as an innovative, forward-focused institution. The Chief Communications and Government Relations Officer has the authority and responsibility to execute bold strategies that reinforce NIC’s mission, values, and long-term vision.
Working for Nick Swayne, NIC’s President, means collaborating with a highly engaged and mission-driven leader who brings a strong background in strategic leadership, public service, and organizational development. A U.S. Army veteran with advanced degrees in public administration and strategic leadership, Dr. Swayne has focused his presidency on enhancing institutional stability, rebuilding enrollment momentum, and reinforcing the college’s commitment to student success and community partnership. His leadership has centered on renewing confidence in the college’s direction, strengthening workforce training focused on regional stakeholders, and advancing pathways that prepare students for meaningful careers and further academic achievement.
Professionals joining NIC have the opportunity to work under a president who values collaboration, accountability, and decisive, forward-moving leadership. Dr. Swayne emphasizes transparent communication, data-informed decision-making, and a culture of continuous improvement. Employees are encouraged to contribute ideas, engage in strategic initiatives, and participate in shaping the college’s future. For individuals seeking to make a tangible impact within a vibrant, relationship-focused institution, NIC offers the chance to work alongside a leader committed to growth, excellence, and long-term sustainability. This is an opportunity to engage in work that drives real progress, strengthens the college, and leaves a lasting impact on students and the region.
Responsibilities
Provides strategic assistance and advises the President and other college leaders regarding communications, marketing, community relations, and government relations. Contributes to institutional mission, vision, values, and policy development. Serves as a member of the President’s Cabinet.
Oversees the strategic development and implementation of a comprehensive, research-driven, results-oriented communications and marketing strategy that supports the college’s strategic plan, brand, and enrollment and advancement goals.
Serves as the college’s official spokesperson, leading media relations and representing the institution on internal and external matters, including community, legislative, crisis, and issues impacting the college’s public image.
Oversees integrated marketing, branding, and digital communications (web, social media, print, video) to ensure consistent, compelling messaging across all channels and audiences.
Responds to and resolves citizen inquiries and complaints, including editorials in media.
Ensures compliance with applicable laws and policies related to public records, public information, and government relations. Acts as the custodian of public records in researching and responding to requests for public records.
Maintains a thorough understanding of current laws, pending legislation, and related information in matters pertaining to communications, marketing, public and government relations that may directly or indirectly impact the college and provides recommendations to the President and other college leaders.
Leads the college's local, state, and federal government relations strategy, serving as a primary liaison to elected officials and agencies. Maintains close contact with and gathers information from appropriate community and governmental entities.
Builds and maintains strong relationships with community, business, industry, K-12, and higher education partners to advance the college's role in regional economic and workforce development. Maintains a strong presence in Idaho’s five northern counties, representing and promoting the college to external groups and organizations.
Oversees development of speeches, remarks, presentations, and key messages for the President and other leaders; plans and executes major announcements, press events, and high-visibility activities.
Leads the development and execution of the department’s mission, establishing strategic goals and objectives for communications, marketing, and government relations initiatives.
Develops and manages a high-performing communications and marketing team, including hiring, coaching, supervision, performance management, and professional development.
Maintains effective working relationships with other departments, agencies, and the public throughout the college's regional service area, as well as with officials of other state colleges and universities and appropriate institutions.
Maintains and pursues a positive, helpful, constructive attitude and work relationship with supervisor, college staff, students, and the community.
Represents the President as needed at State Board of Education, legislative, and other meetings as assigned.
Monitors, participates in, reports on, and assists with various economic development-related initiatives within the region as appropriate.
Coordinates special events as appropriate.
Performs other duties as assigned by the President.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a field related to the scope of the position, Master’s degree preferred.
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible upper-management experience in community relations, marketing, governmental relations, public relations and/or public administration; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in higher education or the public sector is preferred.
Knowledge of communications, marketing, and public relations principles and strategies that support institutional visibility and reputation.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal government relations processes and public policy environments.
Knowledge and understanding of higher education operations and the role of community colleges in serving students, workforce, and community needs.
Strong skills in developing and delivering clear, concise, and effective written and oral communications for diverse audiences.
Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to communicate diplomatically and build collaborative relationships across internal and external stakeholders.
Ability to speak and write persuasively on a wide range of topics.
Ability to prepare clear and well-organized documents such as briefings, reports, talking points, and presentations. Ability to analyze complex information, think critically, and evaluate alternative courses of action when developing solutions.
Ability to facilitate dialogue, gather input, and navigate differing perspectives toward constructive outcomes. Ability to travel occasionally by car and plane within the region and periodically out of state.
Proficient skills in the use of personal computers and applications, including MS Office, and current digital communication tools and platforms, including social media and web content management.
Communications and Marketing The Communications and Marketing Department at North Idaho College serves as the central hub for the college’s internal and external communications, ensuring all messaging is clear, consistent, and aligned with NIC’s mission, vision, and values. The department leads media relations, crisis communications, marketing, branding, and digital engagement while partnering with academic and administrative units to create targeted, high-impact content for students, employees, and the broader community. It also manages public records requests, internal communications channels, and the college’s visual and verbal identity, maintaining a cohesive and professional presence across all platforms. By integrating communications, marketing, and outreach, the department amplifies institutional initiatives, strengthens stakeholder engagement, and positions NIC as a trusted, innovative, and highly visible leader regionally and beyond.
Why Consider the Opportunity
Thrive in a Dynamic Environment:
Lead with flexibility, adapting strategies to meet evolving institutional and community needs.
Bold, Strategic Risk-Taking:
Drive priorities and initiatives proactively, pivoting as needed, to achieve key goals.
Principled Leadership:
Navigate evolving opportunities and relationships with integrity, accountability and confidence.
Community College Mission in Action:
Shape marketing and communications strategies that attract, engage and support students.
Campus-to-Community Connector:
Align internal strategy while amplifying NIC’s external presence with community, media and government partners.
Incredible Location & Quality of Life:
Join a vibrant lakefront campus in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and exceptional livability.
#J-18808-Ljbffr