Director of Marketing and Communications

Rockford University is seeking a Director of Marketing and Communications. Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement, the Director of Marketing and Communications provides strategic leadership for Rockford University’s marketing and communications efforts, advancing the University’s brand, reputation, and enrollment goals. This role is responsible for developing and executing integrated marketing strategies across digital, print, and experiential channels, ensuring a consistent and compelling institutional voice.

The Director leads content strategy, digital marketing, and brand management, while overseeing website, social media, publications, and recruitment marketing efforts. This position collaborates closely with campus partners to align messaging with institutional priorities and plays a key role in elevating the University’s visibility and engagement with prospective students, alumni, donors, and the broader community.

Strategic Leadership & Brand

· Develop and lead marketing and communications efforts that support University priorities

· Serve as a steward of the University’s brand, ensuring consistency across departments and platforms

· Maintain brand standards, messaging, and overall voice

· Provide guidance to leadership on marketing and communications initiatives

Digital Marketing & Content

· Oversee the University’s digital presence, including website, social media, email, and campaigns

· Lead content development and storytelling to engage prospective students, alumni, donors, and community partners

· Support SEO efforts, analytics tracking, and overall digital performance

· Manage digital and social advertising campaigns

Website Oversight

· Oversee the structure and content of the University website

· Work with internal partners to ensure content is accurate, accessible, and up to date

· Manage processes for website updates across departments

Creative & Content Development

· Oversee the development of marketing materials, including print, digital, video, and photography

· Ensure content is clear, consistent, and aligned with university priorities

· Support storytelling efforts across news, features, and campaigns

Collaboration & Recruitment Marketing

· Partner with Admissions on student recruitment marketing efforts

· Collaborate with Advancement on donor communications and events

· Work with departments across campus to support program visibility

Team & Project Management

· Manage workflow, timelines, and priorities for marketing projects

· Foster a collaborative and service-oriented approach across campus

Analytics & Reporting

· Track and report on key marketing metrics, including web traffic and campaign performance

· Share updates with the VP of Advancement for board reporting

· Use data to inform decisions and improve results

Qualifications

· Strong organizational and strategic thinking skills

· Experience in marketing, communications, or a related field

· Familiarity with digital marketing, content creation, and brand management

· Experience managing website content (WordPress/Divi preferred)

· Experience with SEO tools (e.g., Google Analytics) and digital advertising

· Proficiency in tools such as Adobe Creative Suite and Canva

· Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

· Strong collaboration skills and ability to work across teams

· Ability to support communications during time-sensitive or crisis situations

Writing & Creative Skills

· Excellent writing and editing proficiency

· Ability to quickly understand and translate new ideas into clear, compelling content

· Ability to write for a variety of audiences

· Ability to collaborate with others in the writing and editing process

· Strategic thinking, creativity, and a willingness to try new approaches

Education and/or Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field (master’s preferred).

· 5–8+ years of progressive experience in marketing, communications, or related field.

· Experience in higher education or a mission-driven organization preferred.

· Demonstrated experience leading marketing strategy and managing teams.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical and mental demands of this position are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential job functions. While performing the duties of this job, employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to sit for long periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Employees work in a professional office environment that is highly visible to members and the college community. Normal office conditions prevail. Office work is performed primarily indoors. Employees must be able to work in an office with moderate noise, and on occasion work outside of normal business hours for event coverage.

TO APPLY:

Please submit resume, cover letter indicating salary requirements, and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu . Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position if filled. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an annual salary of $60,000.

Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way

We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy.
• Savings for Health & Dependent Care: Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs.
• Financial Protection: Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person