The University of Alabama (UA) invites nominations and applications for the position of Associate Vice President for Reputation Strategy (AVP). The AVP is responsible for protecting, strengthening, and advancing the institution's image and reputation.
The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is located in the city of Tuscaloosa and is one of the nation’s premier public universities, offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 200 fields of study. UA’s more than 1,000 acres of tree-lined pathways and state-of-the-art facilities are a source of inspiration for students, faculty and staff. UA is among the nation’s fastest-growing flagship universities with more than 42,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. The Carnegie Foundation lists The University of Alabama as an R1 institution, placing it among the top doctoral research universities in the United States. UA employs more than 2,100 faculty and was recognized by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best-in-State Employers and Best Employers for New Graduates. Faculty members work closely with students, and many involve students at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels in basic and applied research. More details about The University, the campus environment, and vibrant community culture are available through the UA Opportunity Profile
The AVP will provide strategic oversight of issues management, crisis communications, and reputational risk. Working closely with leaders across the Division of Strategic Communications, this role will help shape narratives that advance institutional priorities, values, and long‑term strategy. The AVP will partner with senior communications leaders and executive leadership to anticipate challenges, guide decision‑making, and ensure coordinated, timely, and effective communications in high‑stakes environments.
The AVP reports to the Vice President for Strategic Communications and works closely with the President, Legal, Government Relations, System leadership, and key members of the executive team. This role supervises the public relations strategist focused on issues management and the communications specialist responsible for open records, while also collaborating closely with senior leaders across the Division of Strategic Communications.
The successful candidate will bring demonstrated experience advising executive leadership in high‑pressure, high‑visibility, and high‑impact situations, with a proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and manage sensitive, confidential matters with sound judgment and discretion. Prior management or supervisory experience is essential, along with exceptional strategic thinking, writing, and verbal communication skills. The AVP will exercise strong judgment in crisis leadership, leading with calm executive presence and credibility while navigating complex political dynamics through collaboration and influence across the organization.
WittKieffer is assisting The University of Alabama in this search, which will remain open until an appointment is made.
Application materials, nominations and inquiries can be directed to Jenna Brumleve and Mercedes Chacón Vance via WittKieffer's Candidate Portal using the buttons above or below or to Jenna Brumleve ([email protected]).
The University of Alabama is an Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants to and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases.