Manager – Institutional Branding

Position Summary

The Manager is responsible for developing, managing, and protecting the universitys brand identity across all platforms and audiences. This role ensures brand consistency, strengthens institutional reputation, and supports enrollment, advancement, and engagement goals through strategic brand positioning and storytelling.

Key Responsibilities

Brand Strategy & Management

• Develop and implement the universitys brand strategy in alignment with institutional mission and values
• Maintain and enforce brand guidelines, visual identity standards, and tone of voice
• Serve as the brand steward for the university, ensuring consistency across colleges, departments, and initiatives
• Conduct brand audits and recommend improvements

Marketing & Communications

• Collaborate with internal teams to create brand-aligned marketing and communication materials
• Review and approve creative assets (print, digital, video, signage, merchandise) for brand compliance
• Support enrollment marketing, alumni relations, fundraising, and academic promotions
• Oversee messaging for major campaigns and institutional announcements

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Partner with academic units, admissions, advancement, athletics, and student services to align branding efforts
• Provide brand training and guidance to faculty and staff
• Coordinate with external agencies, designers, and vendors

Research & Analytics

• Monitor brand perception, awareness, and reputation through surveys and market research
• Analyze campaign performance and brand metrics to inform strategy
• Track trends in higher education branding and marketing

Digital & Social Media (if applicable)

• Ensure brand consistency across the university website, social media, and digital platforms
• Collaborate with digital teams on content strategy and storytelling
• Support crisis communication and reputation management efforts

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Marketing, Communications, Branding, or a related field
• Proven experience in brand management, marketing, or strategic communications
• Strong understanding of brand strategy, visual identity systems, and messaging frameworks
• Experience managing multiple stakeholders and complex organizations

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or public-sector organizations
• Familiarity with enrollment marketing and institutional advancement
• Experience managing agencies or cross-functional teams

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinking and strong brand judgment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to balance creativity with institutional governance
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Data-driven decision-making and analytical skills
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of diverse audiences