Executive Director

Executive Director – Inside Higher Ed Location: Clayton State University, Morrow, Georgia Job Title: Executive Director Regular/Temporary: Regular Full/Part Time: Full-Time Job ID: 283889 Clayton State University is located in Morrow, Georgia, roughly 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta. The university offers employees an adaptable, collaborative environment that fosters professional and personal development. Job Summary The division of Enrollment, Marketing & Student Success seeks a full-time Executive Director, Marketing & Communication. The University is seeking an exceptional individual to join our team as an intellectually curious, strategic thinker who understands the complexity of public higher education and its changing landscape. The successful candidate will have a broad set of experiences with a deep understanding of crisis communications, media/PR/government relations, and project management. The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude and an active, forward-thinking perspective that is characterized by highly ethical practices and a commitment to diversity, flexibility, intrinsic motivation, and collaboration. This position will report to the Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing & Student Success. The Executive Director will be responsible for leading and/or managing several critical areas at the University, including public relations, marketing strategy and communication engagements, brand identity and visual strategy (including digital designs), website, photography, and social media, while working collaboratively with other functions across campus. The Executive Director also serves as the University’s chief spokesperson and is charged with promoting the Clayton State University brand in a myriad of ways resulting in increased visibility for the University. Responsibilities Inspire a culture of collegiality, professionalism, and collaboration within the departments under their supervision and across campus. Plan, develop, and execute a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy that supports the overall mission and objective of Clayton State University. Champion efforts to articulate the identity and branding clearly and concisely for the University for both internal and external audiences. Provide ongoing thought leadership to identify specific opportunities to advance the reputation of Clayton State University and utilize a creative communication approach to maximize those opportunities. Provide leadership and active management for the marketing and communications team which includes publications, website, media, and public relations. Develop a robust digital marketing strategy that increases the University's engagement with key audiences. Develop a proactive media relations strategy and program designed to enhance the image and reputation of the University in the media, among the public, and with other constituencies, including a comprehensive crisis communications plan. Serve as an active member of the University's Crisis Management Team. Develop a set of metrics to assist in evaluating the effectiveness of all University marketing communications programs. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree. At least 5–7 years of experience in higher education marketing and communications or related field. At least 3–5 years of professional staff supervisory experience. Significant experience in communications and marketing, preferably in a higher education environment or enrollment marketing experience with a proven track record for developing and implementing strategic marketing plans. Proficiency in Banner, Microsoft Office suite, and data analysis. Experience with marketing and communication strategies within the field of enrollment (including CRM campaign strategies) and retention. Strong written and oral communication skills, and proofreading skills. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree preferred. 7+ years of experience in higher education marketing and communications. Experience in the field of higher education, marketing, communication, public relations and/or business. Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Knowledge of the principles, practices, and trends of higher education and the ability to quickly acquire general knowledge of the university’s policies, procedures, and practices. Working knowledge of student retention strategies, advising models, and student success programming for online/remote populations. Demonstrated ability to implement successful change initiatives in a dynamic environment. Exceptional skills in managing, motivating, and supporting creative people with proven results in building a high‑performing and cohesive marketing and communications team. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage change. Strong interpersonal skills with proven experience at building connections and relationships with people throughout campus and community. Demonstrated knowledge and high competence in the detailed understanding of public media. Excellent team player, thrives in a collaborative and dynamic environment. Excellent critical thinking, analytical, and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision at times. Results‑oriented leader with high energy and a positive attitude. Ability to make sound data‑informed decisions. Creates a culture of exemplary customer service. Ability to multi‑task and work in a constantly changing environment, implement creative (outside‑the‑box) student success strategies. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. USG Core Values The University System of Georgia (USG) has Core Values: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do. For more details, see the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct. Conditions of Employment Offers of employment are contingent upon a background investigation, including a criminal background check and, if applicable, a credit check. Candidates may be subject to a pre‑employment drug and alcohol screening. All applicants must disclose potential, actual, or apparent conflicts of interest in compliance. Equal Employment Opportunity Clayton State University is an equal employment, equal access, and equal educational opportunity and affirmative action institution. They recruit, hire, train, promote and educate persons without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status, as required by applicable federal and state laws. For more information, contact the Office of Human Resources at (678) 466‑4230. Clery Disclosure This position may be considered a Campus Security Authority, CSA. A CSA is a Clery‑specific term that encompasses certain departments, groups, and individual employees who have a duty to report crimes they become aware of, as defined by the Clery Act. #J-18808-Ljbffr