Director, Communications Seminary Advancement

POSITION SUMMARY:

Lead the development and implementation of strategic messaging, marketing and communications plans for Concordia Seminary in support of its many priorities and initiatives, and its Lutheran witness to church and world. Work in close collaboration with the Manager, Creative Operations and lead the communications team to raise the Seminary's visibility, advance its brand and articulate clear messaging to its constituencies.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee the development of content for marketing and communications materials to be used across all platforms in the promotion of the many efforts of the Seminary including student recruitment, academic programming, continuing education, special events, fund development and general awareness.

• Ensure the articulation of the Seminary's image and a Lutheran Gospel witness in the content developed for brochures, fliers, advertisements, infographics, publications, presentations, videos and other print and electronic promotional materials; ensure that content for both internal and external audiences is brand-centric and in support of Seminary initiatives, priorities and theological commitments.

• Work collaboratively with campus departments to ensure their marketing communications needs are met with solutions that are on brand and within budget while satisfying project objectives; curate, develop and communicate the Seminary's story in a compelling manner to enhance and support priority initiatives such as recruitment and advancement.

• Develop and implement content strategy for Concordia Seminary's official social media channels, email marketing campaigns and main website.

• Drive media strategy, develop positive relationships with members of the media and manage the development and distribution of news releases.

• Draft, coordinate and communicate crisis and disaster response plans as needed or required.

• Provide direction to direct-reporting staff, freelance contractors and student workers, including direction for work-flow priorities.

• Contribute to strategic discussions regarding projects and overall division strategic planning.

• Develop, track and report appropriate project metrics.

• Assist in developing the Communications budget to accomplish annual business objectives.

POSITIONS SUPERVISED:

Manager, Creative Operations

Communications Specialists

Senior Media Producer

Freelance writers, photographers and videographers

Student workers

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum five years of experience in marketing and communications, with progressive roles and duties.

• At least three years of supervisory experience.

• Confident and highly relational communicator with excellent verbal and written communication skills, and ability to thrive in a high-volume environment.

• Strong knowledge and understanding of current trends in digital media/social media, with expert experience in creating web and mobile content.

• Strong project management and time management skills.

• Good understanding of the theology, ministry and culture of The Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod (LCMS).

• Membership in good standing of an LCMS congregation strongly preferred.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, English or related field of study required.