The University of Akron seeks a dynamic, creative, inspired colleague as its first chief brand officer (CBO). This forward-thinking leader will have the opportunity to shape and elevate the university’s brand, making a significant impact on its reputation and success in the higher education landscape. To propel institutional advancement, The University of Akron partnered with a leading marketing and PR agency to collaboratively define its contemporary identity and conceptualize its energetic brand. The CBO will lead University-wide efforts to implement marketing strategies, characterize the institution’s revitalization and, ultimately, facilitate comprehensive growth.

Position Summary:
The chief brand officer (CBO) is a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the University President. This role is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive and consistent brand strategy that uplifts and sustains the University’s global reputation, simultaneously aligning with its mission and values. The CBO directs efforts to enhance institutional visibility and boost engagement with internal and external stakeholders. The CBO collaborates across the university to ensure cohesive messaging and amplifies the University’s brand through various channels, ensuring the University’s distinct identity is conveyed with uniform impact. The CBO leads, manages, and oversees strategic communications, marketing, and digital media and marketing on the following scales: university-wide, college-specific and UA Athletics.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the university’s brand strategy to align with the institutional mission, vision and strategic goals—enhancing reputation, recognition and engagement at local, national and global levels.
• Utilize data-driven insights to make informed branding decisions. Curate brand experiences across all touchpoints, through online and in-person formats, and in consideration of all internal and external constituents.
• Oversee the creation, execution and enforcement of branding standards and style guidelines across the institution, including license and trademark.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the president and executive team on brand positioning, communication topics and reputation management, championing the university’s identity and goals.
• Direct the development of comprehensive communication strategies for both internal and external audiences, promoting the university's story and fostering a strong, unified voice.
• Manage the development of strategies to highlight and promote the university’s achievements, rankings and other accolades to enhance its visibility, attract talent and obtain resources.
• Oversee the development of the media relations and outreach strategy.
• Lead marketing, digital and strategic communication teams to drive engagement across all university audiences, including prospective and current students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community partners.
• Manage the marketing and communication efforts of UA Athletics, working closely with the department to promote events, student-athletes and achievements, amplifying school spirit and pride.
• Partner with deans, departments and senior leaders across the university to ensure aligned messaging.
• Integrate brand initiatives into key academic, research and community engagement areas.
• Foster relationships with outside vendors.
• Provide vision, mentorship and leadership to teams across strategic communications, marketing, digital marketing, and athletics marketing and communications, fostering innovation, collaboration and a high standard of excellence.

Please refer to the position and leadership profile for more details: Chief Brand Officer - position and leadership profile

Education:
Master’s degree in marketing, communications, business or related field.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in brand management, marketing, communications or related field, with at least six (6) years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven success in managing comprehensive brand and communications strategies, preferably within higher education or a similarly complex organization.
• Strong understanding of digital marketing and data analytics.
• Exceptional leadership, communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to influence and build consensus at all levels.

Application Details:

In order to be considered for this position, please, complete the online application and attach your resume and cover letter. Final candidates will be asked to provide three professional references.

​​Application Deadline:
Applications will be reviewed beginning May 15, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled.

Union Affiliation (if applicable):

For assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:

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Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees.  The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus.  As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search. 

Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement

It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.