Director of Marketing and Communication for Alumni and Community Engagement

San José State University•San Jose, CA

1d•$8,084 - $10,000

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Associate Vice President of Alumni and Community Engagement, and in collaboration with University Marketing and Communication, the Director of Marketing and Communication for Alumni and Community Engagement (ACE) is responsible for developing and executing strategic marketing and communications initiatives for Alumni Engagement, Annual Giving, and Special Events at San José State University. The incumbent leads the development of integrated, multi-channel communication strategies designed to increase alumni participation, strengthen affinity, and support philanthropic goals. This includes creating targeted, audience-centered messaging aligned with segmentation strategies and engagement objectives across Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. The position plays the lead role in planning and executing marketing campaigns for alumni programs, signature events, and fundraising initiatives, including Day of Giving and annual appeals. The Director ensures consistent, high-quality communications across digital and print platforms, while leveraging data and performance metrics to inform strategy and improve engagement outcomes.

Requirements

Working knowledge of, or the ability to develop proficiency in, the appropriate and ethical use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), in higher education and administrative contexts
Ability to apply emerging technologies to support operational effectiveness, data-informed decision-making, and service delivery to students, faculty, and staff
Demonstrated ability to support continuous improvement and organizational learning through the responsible application of technology within assigned areas of responsibility
Ability to evaluate potential applications, promote responsible, ethical, and equitable use, and ensure alignment with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and strategic priorities
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to tailor messaging for diverse audiences
Knowledge of marketing and communications principles, preferably in a higher education or nonprofit environment
Ability to develop and execute integrated, multi-channel marketing campaigns
Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
Ability to analyze performance metrics and translate insights into actionable improvements
Experience managing email marketing platforms and digital communications
Ability to collaborate effectively across teams and with campus partners
Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
Attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with marketing and content management systems
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed
Strong graphic design experience on different platforms
Ability to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in marketing, communications or public affairs

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations or related field
Experience in higher education, alumni relations, or advancement communications
Experience writing and editing for multiple audiences and platforms
Experience managing email marketing campaigns and social media channels
Proficiency in graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)
Experience with CRM systems and audience segmentation strategies

Responsibilities

Completes the development, writing, editing, and distribution of the SJSU Alumni e-newsletter
Create and manage a wide range of communications, including email campaigns, print materials, social media content, digital graphics, and event collateral
In partnership with the Senior Director of Alumni Relations supports the development and execution of Alumni Association membership campaigns designed to increase engagement, retention, and participation among alumni audiences
Develop audience-centered messaging tailored to key segments, including alumni, donors, and event participants
Identify and produce compelling alumni stories that highlight impact, achievement, and connection to the university
Working with the Senior Director of Alumni Relations, ensure consistency in tone, voice, branding, and accessibility standards across all communications
Provides overall strategic direction and production for creative execution of content and messaging across multiple platforms, while working closely with all three units of the ACE department
Plan and execute integrated marketing campaigns for alumni programs, events, and fundraising initiatives, including Day of Giving and annual appeals
Collaborate with the Senior Director of Annual Giving and staff to support segmented and targeted campaigns that align with donor engagement and participation goals
Develop and execute strategies that support audience growth, engagement, and philanthropic outcomes
Ensure coordination and alignment of messaging across multiple channels and stakeholders
Conceptualize and execute original visual assets, using digital graphics, infographics, and prints
Develop, produce and implement marketing strategies for alumni events, including football-related events, commencement-related programming, alumni socials, and signature programs
Support high-profile events such as Spartans of Significance, Alumni Social, and tailgates through coordinated communications and promotional efforts
Manage and optimize email marketing platforms, including audience segmentation, testing, and deployment
Monitor and analyze key performance metrics, including email engagement, social media analytics, and event participation