Director, Communications and Marketing - Harris-Stowe State University

Harris-Stowe State University is a historically Black institution (HBCU) located in the heart of vibrant mid-town St. Louis, Missouri. Harris-Stowe’s beautiful campus is minutes from the renowned Gateway Arch, St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art and History Museums, Forest Park, and other cultural and educational institutions. Harris-Stowe’s diverse faculty and staff provide a wide range of academic programs to one of the St. Louis region's most culturally diverse student bodies.

Job Summary

The Director of Communications & Marketing at Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) is responsible for the strategic planning, development, and execution of comprehensive marketing, communications, and public relations initiatives that serve external and internal audiences. Reporting directly to the Vice President and Chief of Staff, the Director works collaboratively with the university's leadership team and external partners to enhance HSSU's visibility, reputation, and engagement with key stakeholders. This role oversees the creation and implementation of marketing materials and communication strategies across various media channels and leads efforts at both strategic and tactical levels.

Essential Functions

• Provide expert guidance on all marketing, branding, and communications aspects to ensure alignment with HSSU's strategic goals.
• Develop and implement a cohesive marketing and communications plan that defines the university's identity, increases awareness of its programs, and enhances visibility among key stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the Emergency Management team to develop and execute crisis communication strategies that protect and advance the university's interests.
• Craft and disseminate compelling stories highlighting the unique aspects of Harris-Stowe State University and its community, supporting the university's mission to attract top talent and garner alumni and stakeholder support.
• Ensure clear and consistent communication of university priorities, initiatives, and accomplishments to strengthen commitment to HSSU's mission among faculty, students, and staff.
• Develop and implement strategies to cultivate and enhance relationships with key audiences, including the media, locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Oversee HSSU's digital marketing efforts, including website design, brand alignment, maintenance, and efficacy.
• Work closely with senior administration to ensure all significant university communications align with strategic objectives across academic and administrative units.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire the communications and marketing team to excel in supporting the university's mission and strategic goals.
• Play an active role in planning major university events and programs, representing the university at internal and external events, and serving on university committees as needed.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support the university's overall goals.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proven experience managing digital communication platforms and developing editorial strategies.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in using analytics tools to measure communication effectiveness and derive insights.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Passion for art and design, with an understanding of the unique communication needs within an art and design college.
• Demonstrated commitment to working with diverse populations and furthering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
• Basic graphic design skills and proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) are a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Supervisory Responsibility

• Yes

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to operate a motor vehicle.
• Must be able to exert up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body.
• Work typically involves light physical activity, including walking or standing, to a significant degree.

Working Conditions and Environment:

• Work is primarily performed in a standard office setting.
• Generally, follows standard business hours, with occasional evenings or weekends as required.
• Minimal to no exposure to physical risk.

"Please No Phone Calls"

Due to the large number of applications submitted and the high volume of applicant inquiries we receive regarding the status of applications, we are unable to accept phone calls or walk-in inquiries regarding applicant status. Only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

EOE Statement

Harris-Stowe State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and assigned for this position. This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it limited to all duties and responsibilities associated with the position. HSSU management reserves the right to amend and change the responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.