Role overview

The Chicago Forum seeks a dynamic Director of Marketing & Strategic Communications to shape and execute strategies that build brand awareness, position the Chicago Forum’s national and global voice in our subjects of expertise, and drive meaningful engagement across all channels. Reporting to the Senior Director of Programs, this role is responsible for developing and leading integrated marketing initiatives to enhance visibility and foster relationships for the Chicago Forum. The Director will serve as a key leader within a collaborative, mission-driven team committed to free inquiry, the engagement of diverse perspectives, and professional excellence. This individual will supervise a team of professional and student employees.

The ideal candidate can translate the Forum’s priorities into compelling campaigns, has superior organizational and communication skills, and is comfortable navigating complex landscapes in discourse in higher education and beyond.

Responsibilities

Develop and lead integrated marketing campaigns and engagement initiatives to build brand awareness and advance the Forum’s mission across multiple platforms.
Design and implement a comprehensive annual marketing strategy, ensuring consistent messaging and high-quality execution across all channels.
Craft and uphold a unified brand identity—establishing visual identity, tone, and positioning for the Chicago Forum.
Create and manage audience segmentation strategies to deliver personalized and relevant communications throughout the engagement lifecycle.
Oversee the production and delivery of impactful content, including video, audio, and written materials, tailored for diverse audiences.
Cultivate and maintain strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including University of Chicago marketing and communications teams.
Lead the development and execution of crisis communication protocols and response strategies.
Guide preparation of donor communications and promotional materials, including the annual report.
Direct editorial strategy to promote content in all medium generated within and beyond the University, amplifying the Forum’s thought leadership.
Supervise, mentor, and inspire a team that includes the Digital Marketing & Communications Manager as well as professional and student employees.
Ensure effective coordination and alignment of marketing efforts with organizational objectives, adapting to evolving needs and opportunities.
Provide hands-on support for evening and weekend events as part of a dynamic, collaborative team environment.
Act as a strategist or project lead to plan, develop and disseminate information designed to keep the public informed of the organization's programs, accomplishments, or point of view.
Make high-level contributions to the media interface, including writing press releases, planning and organizing media coverage for major events, and crafting responses to sensitive or controversial issues.
Solve complex and unique problems related to the writing, preparation, and/or delivery of information from or about the unit.
Perform other related work as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field.
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
2 years in a senior leadership marketing role.
Demonstrated success developing and executing integrated marketing and engagement strategies.
Proven success in communications and/or public relations.
Demonstrated experience managing crisis communications.
Extensive experience in campaign strategy, public relations, and team leadership.
Track record of managing communications and marketing teams in academic or mission-driven environments.
Proficiency in marketing automation and CRM platforms (e.g., HubSpot, Marketo, Salesforce Marketing Cloud).
Familiarity with website management (e.g. Drupal or similar).
Strong familiarity with business social media platforms and analytics tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Analytics).
Effective advisor to senior leadership; strong executive presence.
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills across a range of formats and audiences.
Demonstrated professionalism, initiative, discretion, and adaptability—working effectively both independently and with diverse stakeholders.
A commitment to UChicago’s first principle of free inquiry and expression; familiarity with the University of Chicago a plus.

Working Conditions

Must be in Chicago, on site at the University.

Application Information

Resume (required)
Cover letter (required)
References (3) (required)
Portfolio of marketing campaigns (preferred)
Writing sample (preferred)

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Rate Type: Salary
FLSA Status: Exempt
Pay Range: $125,000.00 - $135,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible: Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Director of Marketing & Strategic Communications

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