Marketing & Communications Director Position Available In Chester, Pennsylvania

Marketing & Communications Director 4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars 1570 Baltimore Pike, Lincoln University, PA 19352

Job Title:

Marketing & Communications Director Classification:

First/Mid-Level Officials and Managers Division:

Institutional Advancement Department:

Marketing & Communications Location:

Lincoln University, PA, Main Campus (This is an in-person position)

FLSA Status:

Exempt Reports To:

AVP, Institutional Advancement

POSITION SUMMARY

Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, the nation’s first degree-granting historically black college and university, seeks a visionary and results-driven Director of Marketing and Communications. This role will play a pivotal part in shaping and sharing the story of Lincoln’s honorable legacy, outstanding academic programs, and contributions to society. The Marketing and Communications Director will serve as the university’s chief storyteller, strategist, and brand champion, working to advance Lincoln’s mission, expand its visibility, and drive engagement with students, alumni, donors, and broader communities. The Marketing and Communications Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of marketing, branding, communications, and public relations, ensuring that all messaging aligns with the university’s mission, values, and history and actively supports the President’s mission: Learn. Liberate. Lead. As the ultimate point of contact for all parties developing marketing materials on behalf of Lincoln University, this role will maintain brand consistency and serve as the caretaker of the institution’s image and public perception.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1.

Strategic Leadership Serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet, advising senior leadership on communication and marketing matters. Provide executive oversight of LU’s brand, messaging, and positioning strategy. Collaborate with the Board of Trustees Marketing and Communications Committee to develop and implement a comprehensive, multi-year marketing and communications strategy that supports Lincoln University’s institutional goals, increases brand awareness, and strengthens engagement with target audiences. Work closely with other university leaders and across all departments, including academic deans, admissions, athletics, institutional advancement, and student affairs, et. al. to align marketing efforts with institutional priorities. Establish a direct working relationship with the Assistant Director of Sports Communications within Athletics to align efforts and streamline storytelling. 2. Brand Management and Storytelling Lead the development, maintenance, and evolution of a powerful, cohesive narrative for Lincoln University that celebrates its history, achievements, and unique role in higher education. Oversee brand identity and standards to ensure consistency across all communications channels, materials, and visual representations of the university. Serve as the primary spokesperson for the university, representing Lincoln to media and public audiences and acting as a thought leader in the HBCU community. 3. Marketing and Content Development Develop compelling marketing and content strategies to support student recruitment, alumni engagement, and University fundraising efforts. Collaborate with internal and external teams to create impactful materials that enhance the university’s reputation, such as brochures, social media content, videos, web content, press releases, and annual reports. Partner with the Student Government Association, faculty, and other stakeholders to ensure diverse perspectives are represented in Lincoln’s public messaging. Collaborate with university departments — including Mass Communications, The Lincubator, and student-driven teams — to build a pipeline of content creators and contributors; fostering a content ecosystem that empowers students, emerging creators, and faculty contributors to shape the university’s story. 4. Digital and Social Media Strategy Oversee the university’s digital presence, including website, social media, and other online platforms, optimizing content to increase visibility and engagement. Utilize analytics to monitor digital performance and adjust strategies to maximize audience reach and engagement. Collaborate closely with the Office of Information Technology to keep the university ahead of digital trends and emerging tools — including generative AI tools and platforms for content ideation, analysis, and workflow improvement. 5. Media Relations and Public Relations Build and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media to promote positive coverage of Lincoln University. Act as the primary media contact, managing crisis communications and ensuring timely and accurate dissemination of information. Develop and execute fully integrated campaigns and events that spotlight university milestones, achievements, initiatives and those of prominent alumni. 6. Internal Communications and Community Engagement Foster a culture of open, transparent communication within the university, ensuring that faculty, staff, and students are informed of key initiatives and news. Build relationships with alumni, donors, community leaders, influencers, and vendors in an effort to create opportunities to engage with the University’s mission and contribute to its future. Oversee the production of internal newsletters, announcements, and other communications that strengthen university culture and pride.

QUALIFICATIONS A

bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field; an advanced degree is preferred. At least 7 years of experience in modern marketing, communications, and/or public relations, with proven success in strategic leadership, brand management, and digital engagement. Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the mission of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and a deep, unyielding respect for Lincoln University’s legacy. Exceptional storytelling, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas in a clear, compelling way. Strong track record in building brand identity and leading successful marketing and communications initiatives across multiple channels. Some experience in crisis communications and media relations, with a calm and strategic approach to handling high-stakes situations. Familiarity with analytics tools and platforms for tracking and improving marketing performance. Experience with AI tools for marketing, content generation, or strategy is preferred. Strong leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and empower staff and collaborators. Cultural sensitivity, integrity, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Ability to oversee, guide, and roll up sleeves when needed — this role blends leadership and doing.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

Previous experience in a higher education or non-profit setting. Established relationships with media outlets and influencers. Experience in alumni engagement, fundraising, or enrollment marketing.