Lead Director of Marketing and Communications - Office of the Vice Provost for Student Success - UTK

Lead Director Of Marketing And Communications

The Lead Director of Marketing and Communications leads the development and execution of compelling marketing initiatives, oversees brand management, and drives storytelling efforts that elevate the Division of Student Success (DSS) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). This leader directs a high-performing communications and marketing team that supports divisional initiatives and elevating the student experience. The position reports directly to the Chief of Staff.

As a member of the Student Success Leadership Team, the position collaborates closely with divisional leaders and campus partners to advance institutional priorities through strategic, data-informed, and audience-centered marketing and communications efforts. In alignment with the university's vision for an unparalleled student experience, this position drives brand alignment, enhances the student and stakeholder experience, and fosters engagement across internal and external audiences including students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community partners.

In addition, this role oversees and approves all Division of Student Success communication flows, including those executed through division and enterprise systems (e.g., Salesforce, Banner, Slate, Touchnet, etc.)

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Team Management :

Provide visionary leadership for the Division's integrated marketing and communications strategy. Supervise, mentor, and evaluate a professional staff of six and, through direct reports, oversee a team of student interns fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and collaboration. Build team capacity through coaching, professional development, and clear performance expectations. Promote a consistent, professional, and collaborative image for the Division and the University.

Marketing & Communications Strategy :

Develop and implement comprehensive, measurable marketing and communications plans for all DSS offices and initiatives, encompassing advertising, media relations, publications, branding, digital and social media, video, print, and more. Direct high-visibility marketing efforts for key programs and priorities, and partner with unit leaders to translate strategic goals into actionable, creative campaigns that drive engagement and measurable outcomes.

Manage divisional communications budgets and evaluate ROI through analytics and assessment frameworks. Lead the development and promotion of divisional events, campaigns, and programs that elevate the student experience to the next level.

Cross-Campus Collaboration :

The Lead Director of Marketing and Communication serves as the DSS representative and chief liaison in working with key campus partners on communication strategy and execution. This role works collaboratively with the Office of Communications and Marketing (OCM), College Communicators, Enrollment Management, Student Life, Academic Affairs, Advancement, and the Offices of the Chancellor and Provost to ensure coordinated messaging and consistent branding. Serve as a communications advisor and thought partner to the Division of Student Success Leadership Team.

Technology, Data, & Innovation :

Serve as the Division's lead representative and strategic point person for Salesforce Marketing Cloud and other data-driven marketing technologies that enhance communication efficiency and personalization. Develop workflows and content strategies that strengthen outreach, engagement, and data integrity. Leverage digital tools and analytics to guide decision-making, measure impact, and drive continuous improvement. Collaborate with campus partners, agencies, and vendors to deliver integrated, high-impact campaigns that advance flagship initiatives.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Education :

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.

Experience :

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities :

Preferred Qualifications

Education :

Experience :

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities :

Compensation and Benefits :

Application Instructions :

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted.

About Us

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employeesthe Volunteerswho uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

Job Info

Job Identification 5668

Job Category Communication & Mktg

Posting Date 11 / 04 / 2025, 02 : 22 PM

Job Schedule Full time

Locations 1331 Circle Park, Knoxville, TN, 37996, US (On-site)