Director, Strategic Communications & Marketing

The Director of Strategic Communications & Marketing leads the Stigler Centers communications strategy, overseeing marketing for initiatives like ProMarket.org and the Capitalisnt podcast. This role blends data-driven decision-making with creative storytelling to expand the Centers visibility and impact. The Director will design multi-channel campaigns, align messaging with the Centers mission, and engage audiences interested in political economy, regulation, and business. This position offers the opportunity to collaborate with a dynamic team and interact with global thought leaders.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Design and lead strategy for all external communications and marketing initiatives across the Stigler Center including ProMarket.org publication, Capitalisnt podcast, and other Center initiatives and platforms. Prepare relevant strategic communications / marketing plans.

Design and lead data-informed tracking, measurement, and growth; leverages key metrics to refine strategy and demonstrate impact. Develops / presents related reports.

Develop and execute media relations strategies and outreach to elevate the Centers visibility and impact; cultivate and manage relationships with journalists (including with the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence) and monitor citations / mentions.

Plan the creation, execution, and measurement of promotional efforts in advance. Decide how to capitalize on breaking news and emerging trends.

Coordinate closely with ProMarket and Capitalisnt teams to ensure communications / marketing strategic alignment and tactical and operational implementation.

Guide visual and thematic consistency across platforms and initiatives.

Manage communications staff, contractors, interns; coordinate with larger Center team.

Write and edit high-level content : speeches, press releases, newsletters, event materials, etc.

Liaise with Chicago Booth and UChicago teams on larger branding, promotion, and messaging; coordinate with external partners.

Design and execute paid and organic marketing campaigns; analyze performance and optimize reach.

Manage the communications budget and reporting, ensuring data-driven decision-making.

Advise senior leadership and provide communications expertise to support high-level institutional strategy.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelors degree required; masters in communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field preferred.

A minimum of five years of experience communications and marketing required; higher ed / nonprofit experience preferred.

A minimum 3 years of experience managing people and projects.

Excellent writing and editorial skills; ability to translate complex topics for broad audiences.

Deep networks and contacts in media and news outlets across various channels, especially with outlets focused on finance, economics, business, and politics preferred.

Proven success designing and executing integrated marketing and branding campaigns.

Deep understanding of content strategy, audience development, and digital analytics.

Strong project management and leadership skills; able to work cross-functionally and independently.

Ability to handle multiple detailed tasks / projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines with frequent interruptions required.

Demonstrated ability to work effectively and diplomatically with colleagues, as well as with students, faculty and corporate contacts in a multitude of communication methods i.e., in person, email, phone required.

Professional demeanor, including tact, discretion, and a customer service-oriented approach required.

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