Gonzaga University seeks a strategic, creative, and distinguished leader to serve as its Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (CMCO). A member of the President’s cabinet, the CMCO will steward a powerful, cohesive brand identity while advancing a unified and coordinated marketing and communications strategy that advances Gonzaga's Catholic, Jesuit, and humanistic mission, elevating the University’s reputation and amplifying its impact.
The CMCO will lead Gonzaga's Office of Marketing and Communications, oversee a strategic planning process for the unit, and collaborate with academic and administrative leaders to ensure marketing and communications are aligned with University strategy and goals, balancing support for both unit-level and institutional needs and priorities. This process will include an assessment and exploration of organizational structures, processes, and resources to enable a fully modernized marketing and communications enterprise at Gonzaga.
Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga University is a private Catholic institution founded in 1887. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, Gonzaga is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, social justice, and the holistic development of its students. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, emphasizing a rigorous education that prepares students to lead and serve in a global society. With a strong commitment to community engagement and ethical leadership, Gonzaga cultivates an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and make a positive impact on the world.
Collaborating closely with the President's cabinet and marketing and communications professionals distributed throughout the University, the CMCO will ensure consistent, cohesive messaging across Gonzaga. The CMCO will leverage a recently completed brand awareness study to amplify storytelling, enhance audience segmentation, and strengthen strategic messaging across Gonzaga's diverse constituencies.
The role will require collaborative leadership, exceptional relationship building skills, and an aptitude for proactive media and crisis communications planning. The CMCO will leverage modern marketing and communication technologies, including digital platforms, data analytics, and AI-driven tools, to enhance engagement and outreach strategies across the higher education sector.
The successful candidate will have proven experience enhancing the reputation of global brands, a deep understanding of higher education and its societal impact, and the capacity to promote Gonzaga's mission and identity as a Catholic, Jesuit, humanistic university.
Candidates must have at least 10 years of professional experience in brand marketing and communications in the education, not-for-profit, government, and/or private sectors. A bachelor's degree in marketing, public relations, or a related field and a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible supervisory experience are required.
Applicants should provide a CV or resume and a cover letter by clicking Apply below. Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Melissa Fincher, Philip Tang, and Jenna Brumleve at [email protected].
The salary range for this position is $235,000 to $250,000. Appointment at or near the top of the salary range will be reserved for candidates with exceptional qualifications and demonstrated leadership excellence. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, geographic location, etc. This role may be eligible for additional compensation based on merit and/or achievement of specific goals. In addition to salary, Gonzaga University offers benefits such as, comprehensive benefits package, tuition waiver and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements).
Gonzaga University is a Jesuit, Catholic, humanistic institution, and is therefore interested in candidates who will contribute to its distinctive mission. Gonzaga University is a committed EEO/AA employer and diversity candidates are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their disability status and/or protected veteran status.