Chief Brand & Communications Strategist

Appalachian State University; Boone (NC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Appalachian State University is seeking its next Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (CMCO) to serve as the university's most senior strategic communications leader. The CMCO will report directly to the Chancellor and guide strategy, branding, digital marketing, and audience engagement across the institution.

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team, steward the university brand, advance storytelling, and drive the use of AI tools to enhance communications while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public affairs, or related field.
• 12–15 years progressively senior marketing and communications experience, with executive-level leadership.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or MBA) is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the transformation of University Communications into a modern, integrated org.
• Shape and steward App State’s institutional brand and lead integrated marketing strategies.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to the Chancellor, Cabinet, and other leaders.
• Lead creative services, digital marketing, audience engagement, and internal comms strategies.
• Build and develop a collaborative, high-performing comms and marketing team while overseeing resources and partnerships.
• Partner with leadership on AI adoption and governance in communications.

Skills

Executive leadership

Crisis communications

Digital marketing

Analytics

AI tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications/marketing/public affairs

Master’s degree or MBA preferred

Job description

Appalachian State University is seeking its next Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (CMCO) to serve as the university's most senior strategic communications leader. The CMCO will report directly to the Chancellor and guide strategy, branding, digital marketing, and audience engagement across the institution.

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team, steward the university brand, advance storytelling, and drive the use of AI tools to enhance communications while