The Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications supports the creation and coordination of Medill’s storytelling across platforms, departments, research centers and constituent groups. In close collaboration with the Director of Marketing and Communications, the Associate Director of Marketing and Communications and the Events Manager, this person helps assist with activities and events of the department and school.
Specific Responsibilities:
Content Production
Supports the development and implementation of marketing strategies for Medill’s academic programs (IMC full-time, part-time and online programs; graduate and undergraduate journalism programs). Helps execute strategies and tactics that ensure that all Medill school- and program-level marketing initiatives are best-in-class and help meet the reputation and enrollment goals of each program. This includes content development for the web, social media platforms, printed collateral and other media across all stakeholder groups.
Manages the creation of marketing content about Medill’s programs and research using channels such as the Medill website, emails, social media, presentations, etc.
Monitors and updates marketing content as needed across all channels to ensure timely, consistent messaging around Medill and Northwestern brands.
Measures and analyzes the effectiveness of marketing initiatives on a regular basis and adjust strategy to achieve desired results.
Manages and develops marketing assets including photographs and video clips.
Project Management and Execution
Manages project calendar as well as day-to-day execution of projects that support the strategic plan to gain attention for Medill and to market Medill programs to prospective students. Ensures that all projects align with department and school goals.
Coordinates administrative, financial and faculty/staff resources necessary to successfully implement strategic plan and complete projects on time.
Recommends process efficiencies/changes to improve management of marketing efforts.
Works collaboratively and productively with faculty, staff, students, other NU units, Medill supporters and external vendors and agents.
Manages work completed by external vendors, contractors and work-study students to develop outstanding content, set and meet project goals within deadline and on budget.
Social Media and Live Events
Formulates and implements social media strategies to promote Medill’s IMC and journalism programs. Creates and posts relevant and timely content and actively engage key stakeholders via social media.
Monitors web and social media for Medill content to enhance and develop the brand and stay up to date on and implement best practices.
Collaborates with faculty and staff to plan and execute select events; attend events as needed; create supporting materials. Prepares materials as needed for information sessions and other admissions events.
Miscellaneous
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations or related field.
2-3 years related experience.
Demonstrated ability to create compelling and effective marketing communications content that engages target audiences.
Demonstrated experience managing marketing communications projects in a timely, efficient and effective manner.
Demonstrated experience managing social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for organizations or companies.
Demonstrated experience in managing freelancers and vendors.
Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)
Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
Ability to work well as part of a team and independently and work collaboratively with others.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
Highly dependable.
Excellent writing and editing skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
Proficient in Google Analytics.
Interest in all of Medill’s degrees and programs, and demonstrated knowledge of them.
Preferred Qualifications:
Preferred 3-5 years of experience.
Demonstrated success formulating and implementing marketing strategy and developing digital and other varieties of content to achieve measurable marketing goals.
A master's degree or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience for which comparable skills can be acquired.
Confident, professional, positive attitude with a sense of humor.
Ability to adapt to different people and situations, and incorporate honesty, respect and fairness in daily actions.
Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
Proficient in HTML, CSS, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, InDesign, social media platforms and content management systems.
Proficient in AP Style, with outstanding written and oral communication skills.
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.
Internal Number: 37666
About Northwestern University
Northwestern University is a major private research university with 12 academic divisions located on three campuses in Evanston, Chicago, and Education City in Doha, Qatar. We have approximately 2,500 full-time faculty members, 17,000 graduate and undergraduate students, and over 5,700 full and part-time staff. Northwestern University combines innovative teaching and pioneering research in a highly collaborative environment. It provides students and faculty exceptional opportunities for intellectual, personal and professional growth.
