Senior Marketing and Communications Strategist (Marketing Communications Professional IV)

CSU Careers • San Diego, CA

6h • $6,668 - $9,714 • Hybrid

About The Position

San Diego State University’s University Relations and Development (URAD) division is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Senior Marketing and Communications Strategist to lead strategic communication efforts that engage and inspire SDSU’s alumni community. This role plays a key part in shaping how alumni connect with the university, strengthening lifelong relationships, fostering pride, and supporting engagement, membership, and philanthropic initiatives.

Requirements

• Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in a related field and five years of relevant experience.
• Thorough and advanced knowledge and understanding of marketing, branding, communications, public relations, and related roles.
• Advanced communication, public, and internal relations skills to effectively represent the university and impact diverse constituencies, oversee the development of effective and compelling materials for diverse audiences and platforms and engage and collaborate with internal stakeholders and university leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement integrated marketing strategies that support engagement, membership growth, fundraising initiatives, and revenue generating partnerships while aligning with organizational priorities.
• Strong understanding of brand standards and the ability to ensure consistent application of branding across all marketing channels, materials, and digital platforms.
• Ability to identify and develop compelling stories that strengthen community connections, highlight impact, and support stewardship, engagement, and fundraising priorities.
• Valid California Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
• An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Experience developing marketing strategies within higher education, alumni relations, advancement, or nonprofit organizations is preferred.
• Experience managing communications for large and diverse constituent audiences, such as alumni or membership communities is preferred.
• Familiarity with email marketing platforms, CRM systems, digital analytics tools, and web content management systems is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead integrated marketing strategies that support alumni engagement, membership growth, and fundraising initiatives.
• Oversee multi-channel campaigns across email, digital, social, and web platforms.
• Establish content strategy and editorial planning, including large-scale alumni communications.
• Direct storytelling initiatives that highlight alumni impact and strengthen community engagement.
• Guide the strategy and continuous improvement of digital platforms, including websites and online communities.
• Ensure brand consistency and alignment across all marketing channels and materials.
• Provide direction to marketing staff and student team members, including assigning work, setting priorities, and supporting development.
• Partner with campus stakeholders and development teams to align messaging, timelines, and campaign goals.
• Review and guide marketing content, campaigns, and deliverables to ensure quality, effectiveness, and brand compliance.
• Monitor campaign performance metrics and adjust strategies to optimize engagement and results.
• Manage marketing budgets, vendor relationships, and external partnerships to support campaign success.
• Oversee contracts, timelines, and deliverables to ensure projects are executed effectively.

Benefits

• 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the University of California system.
• Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees