Executive Director, Marketing Strategy

Job Summary/Basic Functions

The Executive Director of Marketing Strategy (Deputy Chief Marketing Officer) is a strategic leader, visionary, and operational expert for Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) integrated and comprehensive portfolio of marketing, user experience, and digital recruitment initiatives. The Executive Director of Marketing Strategy reports directly to the Vice President of Student Success & Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, serving as the University’s Deputy CMO and standing in for the CMO as needed. The Executive Director is responsible for the development, coordination, and execution of marketing strategies that support brand and reputation enhancement, identity development, and enrollment and engagement results. The Executive Director partners with Enrollment, Academic Affairs, Student Success, University Advancement, University Communications, and community stakeholders to effectively communicate the EKU value proposition through consistent, compelling, and student-focused messaging. The Executive Director will oversee a multidisciplinary team focused on enhancing the digital experience for prospective and current students, managing EKU’s digital brand presence, and implementing data-informed strategies to increase student affinity, yield, and persistence.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Master’s degree in Digital Marketing, Web Development, Communications, Higher Education Administration, or a related field is required.

Experience: Three years of experience is required.

Licensure & Certifications:

Preferred Qualifications:

Job Duties:

• 45% - Collaborate with the VP to shape and execute EKU’s multi-year marketing and digital strategy in alignment with brand strategy as set by Communications and Brand Management. Serve as Deputy Chief Marketing Officer, acting as the primary delegate in the VP’s absence. Translate institutional priorities into marketing campaigns that advance enrollment, retention, fundraising, alumni engagement, and community impact. Lead cross-channel strategies (digital, print, media, social, video, web) that elevate EKU’s visibility and reputation regionally and nationally. Ensure tone, and visual standards are upheld across all units of the University. - (Essential)
• 30% - Direct planning, development, and execution of integrated campaigns that support enrollment goals, student success, and institutional reputation. Partner with Enrollment Management to create campaigns that drive awareness, applications, and yield across diverse student populations (undergraduate, graduate, online, transfer, adult learners). Collaborate with Advancement and Alumni Relations to design campaigns that strengthen donor and alumni engagement. Use research and analytics to identify target audiences, track performance, and optimize strategies. - (Essential)
• 25% - Oversee market research, competitor analysis, and enrollment perception studies to guide strategy. Ensure the use of analytics and KPIs to measure campaign ROI and effectiveness. Provide reports and insights to senior leadership on marketing performance and impact. - (Essential)