Recruitment Marketing Specialist

University of Waterloo; Waterloo; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic professional to lead enrolment management and recruitment strategies. This pivotal role involves collaborating closely with faculties to develop integrated marketing plans, leveraging research and analysis to drive student engagement. The successful candidate will excel in project management and possess a strong foundation in communications and marketing principles. Join a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to enhancing the student experience and achieving institutional goals. If you're passionate about education and eager to make a significant impact, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in marketing/communications, preferably in education.
• Exceptional attention to detail and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop effective marketing and recruitment plans aligned with faculty goals.
• Manage undergraduate recruitment communications across various channels.

Skills

Marketing

Communications

Research and Analysis

Project Management

Customer Service

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications

Marketing or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe Creative Suite

CRM

Drupal

Social Media Platforms

Job description

Overview

Term: 2 years

This role is embedded within, functionsally reports to, and receives strategic direction and enrolment management goals from the Faculty (or Faculties) assigned to the role. It reports directly to and receives support, expertise, and resources from the Marketing & Undergraduate Recruitment (MUR) unit of the Registrar’s Office (RO). The role is responsible for establishing and managing the process and framework by which the Faculties meet enrolment management goals, including developing integrated marketing, recruitment, and communications plans, and conducting research and analysis to inform strategies, messaging, and positioning. A key aspect of the role involves engaging and educating faculty staff, students, and alumni about enrolment management, significantly impacting the achievement of institutional enrolment, retention, and revenue goals.

This role is embedded within, works in close collaboration with, and receives strategic direction and enrolment management goals from the Faculty of Health and Faculty of Science.

Responsibilities

Enrolment Management and Recruitment Expertise

• Conduct research and analysis based on faculty enrolment goals; develop effective, research-based undergraduate marketing, recruitment, and communications plans aligned with these goals, covering strategic objectives, key messages, resource allocation, positioning, and operational strategies across print, web, new media, relationship-building, and events.
• Apply UWaterloo’s branding and visual identity frameworks to the faculties’ marketing and communications strategies.
• Develop targeted messaging and strategies for different stages of the enrolment funnel, including virtual and on-campus engagement techniques.
• Design solutions to recruitment challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and support a student-centered approach emphasizing high-touch customer service and meaningful conversations.
• Leverage technology, including social media, to meet marketing and recruitment objectives.
• Manage relationships with prospective students, parents, alumni, and other partners.
• Participate in meetings to share research and insights, and contribute to institutional marketing strategies.
• Participate in recruitment events and develop strategies to gather qualitative data at these events.
• Travel as needed for recruitment events and alumni meetings.

Communications Planning

• Create and implement integrated, research-based undergraduate communications plans, including print, web, and new media strategies.
• Manage all undergraduate recruitment communications, ensuring timely, accurate, and strategic messaging across channels.
• Develop and review content for recruitment materials, websites, and social media, ensuring alignment with university positioning and brand standards.
• Contribute to website content and conduct cost analyses to inform budget planning.

Collaboration and Consultation

• Advise and collaborate with the Manager, Marketing & Campus Engagement, and other team members.
• Engage with faculty stakeholders to align strategies and build effective relationships.
• Guide the Undergraduate Recruitment Co-ordinator in developing relationship-building initiatives.
• Coordinate with Creative Studio for production processes.
• Share knowledge and best practices within the team.
• Ensure communication strategies align with the faculties’ strategic plans and protocols.
• Uphold university values of curiosity, courage, engagement, and inclusivity.

Market Research and Knowledge Application

• Stay informed about program details, student life, branding, and trends affecting prospective students.
• Understand generational characteristics and motivations of target audiences.
• Recommend improvements based on research, best practices, and competitive analysis.
• Design and analyze research (surveys, focus groups, etc.) to inform strategies and evaluate effectiveness.

Project Management

• Manage workflows, resources, and budgets for initiatives.
• Establish and monitor key metrics for success.
• Develop annual tactics documents and marketing action plans.

Other Duties

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or related field; faculty-related education is an asset.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in marketing/communications, preferably in education or not-for-profit sectors.
• Experience in strategic planning, branding, market analysis, content development, project management, and digital media.
• Exceptional attention to detail, communication skills, and research ability.
• Knowledge of student recruitment marketing principles and industry best practices.
• Technical proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, CRM, Drupal, and social media platforms.

Equity Statement

The University of Waterloo values diversity and inclusion and is committed to accessibility. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those who are marginalized or disadvantaged. Positions are open to qualified candidates legally entitled to work in Canada. For accommodations, contact [e-mail].