The University of New England (UNE) is seeking a collaborative, visionary, and dynamic Vice President of Admissions and Chief Marketing Officer (VPA/CMO) to join a highly innovative university. In this pivotal cabinet-level role, reporting directly to the president of the University, the VPA/CMO will articulate UNE’s mission and will create and execute strategic plans to effectively communicate the university’s impact and distinctive educational experience. This leader will also promote UNE’s research and other achievements to enhance brand awareness both nationally and internationally.

The VPA/CMO will provide strategic vision and oversight to develop and implement a comprehensive admissions and marketing strategy that aligns with UNE’s mission, values, and strategic plan. The VPA/CMO will enhance the university’s visibility among prospective students, alumni, donors, faculty, and staff, while engaging diverse stakeholders across multiple constituencies. This position presents a unique opportunity to shape UNE’s branding and marketing strategies, to contribute to the University’s growth and impact, and to lead a highly talented team of admissions and marketing professionals.

Nominations, and Applications

The University of New England has retained the services of Dr. Josh Ward at the executive search firm Korn Ferry to conduct the search. To request a copy of the full-length position description or to submit nominations, please contact Dr. Ward at the e-mail address below. To formally apply for the position, applicants should submit a current and comprehensive resume. Applicants are welcome to also provide an optional letter of interest describing why you are interested in both the role of VP of Admissions / Chief Marketing Officer and the University of New England, why you are a good fit for the position based on your leadership experience, and why now is a good time for you to consider the opportunity. For priority consideration, please submit at least your resume by Tuesday, December 10, 2024 to .

About the University of New England

UNE is Maine’s largest private university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study-abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of flexible online offerings. In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to positively impact a world full of challenges. We are the state’s top provider of health professionals and home to Maine’s only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care programs, and nationally recognized programs in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts.

UNE offers a generous comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The package includes varied health and dental plans; a retirement plan that includes up to an eight percent match; extensive paid leave including holidays, vacation, sick, and personal time; and educational benefits. Please visit the Human Resources Benefits site for additional information regarding UNE’s benefits package.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic admissions and marketing plans that align with UNE’s mission, values, and strategic plan.
• Collaborate with university leadership and stakeholders to prioritize and deliver initiatives that meet recruitment and engagement goals, advancing the university’s long-term vision.
• Enhance the university’s visibility among various constituencies, including but not limited to prospective students and families, alumni, donors, industry and governmental partners, faculty, and professional staff, through various media.
• Oversee the creation and distribution of all marketing and advertising materials, ensuring compelling messaging tailored to various audiences.
• Lead brand management and graphic identity efforts, including trademark licensing.
• Cultivate and enhance partnerships with public and private organizations to promote the university and its programs.
• Educate and engage the campus community about changing demographics, market trends, and the evolving needs of prospective students and families, ensuring the university remains competitive in the higher education landscape.
• Enhance donor engagement and drive future fundraising growth by strategically utilizing scholarships and financial aid resources to support student success and retention.
• Working with the provost and academic deans, analyze emerging trends to identify potential areas for program expansion and assist in the development of plans for new programs that align with the university’s mission and long-term goals.
• Leverage merit- and need-based funding to recruit a diverse and accomplished student body, including undergraduates, graduate students, transfers, international students, and online learners, in alignment with the university’s enrollment objectives.
• Utilize data analytics, market trends, and industry best practices to inform strategic decisions and evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives.
• Build and manage the admissions and marketing budget, making data-informed decisions for effective resource utilization.
• Lead, mentor, and recruit a diverse team of admissions and marketing and creative professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in marketing, communications, business administration, education or a related field, with 10-12 years of progressive leadership experience in admissions and marketing with a proven track record of meeting enrollment goals.
• Proven success in leading teams.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills.
• Strong track record in managing external agencies and talent, focusing on building strategic partnerships.
• Visionary leader with the ability to direct comprehensive admissions and marketing and strategies to advance university goals.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles, broadly defined, in marketing practices and team leadership.