Vice President for Communications

Oberlin College and Conservatory; United States; On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Oberlin College and Conservatory seeks an experienced leader to serve as Vice President for Communications. This executive will develop and execute a comprehensive communications and marketing strategy to ensure consistent branding across the institution, amplifying Oberlin’s position as a leader in higher education and supporting its mission and values.

Reporting to the President, the Vice President will advise on communications matters, collaborate with the executive team and stakeholders,

Responsibilities

• Assess current communications infrastructure
• Develop institution-wide strategic communications plans
• Lead crisis communications
• Serve as a public spokesperson
• Support advancement initiatives
• Manage a high-performing communications staff

Job description

The client is seeking an experienced leader to serve as Vice President for Communications. This executive role will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive communications and marketing strategy that ensures consistent and effective branding across the institution. The Vice President will play a key role in shaping the public image of the client, working to amplify its position as a leader in higher education and supporting its mission and values.

Reporting directly to the President and serving as a principal advisor on communications matters, the Vice President will collaborate closely with the executive leadership team and various stakeholders, including staff, alumni, and students. Core responsibilities include assessing current communications infrastructure, developing institution-wide strategic communications plans, leading crisis communications, serving as a public spokesperson, supporting advancement initiatives, and managing a high-performing communications staff. The role requires a visionary and dynamic professional who can unify messaging and engage diverse constituencies both on and off campus.

The client is committed to fostering a climate of equality, access, and respect for differences, with a strong history of leadership in social justice and inclusion. The Vice President for Communications will be expected to uphold and promote these values through all communications efforts. Candidates should bring significant experience in strategic communications leadership, with the ability to build innovative approaches that further the goals and reputation of the institution.