About the position
The Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (CMCO) is a dynamic and strategic leader responsible for shaping and advancing the overall image, reputation, and visibility of Elgin Community College. As a member of the President's Cabinet, the CMCO plays a critical role in articulating the college's mission, values, and strategic priorities to diverse internal and external audiences. This executive-level position leads a comprehensive, integrated marketing and communications program that supports institutional goals related to enrollment, student success, community engagement, and brand development. The CMCO provides visionary leadership in the development and execution of innovative marketing, branding, and communication strategies that elevate the college's profile locally, regionally, and nationally. The role requires a forward-thinking, collaborative leader who can inspire teams, build consensus across departments, and drive measurable results through data-informed decision-making and creative storytelling. In addition to overseeing all aspects of marketing and communications-including media relations, digital strategy, crisis communications, and internal engagement-the CMCO serves as the college's chief spokesperson in coordination with the President. The CMCO ensures that all messaging is consistent, inclusive, and aligned with the college's mission to serve a diverse student population and foster a culture of equity, excellence, and innovation.
Responsibilities
- Lead crisis communication strategy, planning, and rapid response with executive and emergency teams.
- Serve as ECC's primary spokesperson and NIMS Public Information Officer (PIO).
- Draft, update, and test the Crisis Communications Plan and emergency alert systems.
- Monitor risks via media tools; collaborate with departments to protect ECC's reputation.
- Train leadership for media relations and crisis communication.
- Provide 24/7 monitoring of ECC-related online content and social mentions.
- Advise President, Cabinet, and Board on strategic communications and reputation management.
- Direct strategic marketing campaigns to support enrollment, retention, and brand awareness.
- Oversee in-house creative team and integrated marketing aligned with ECC's goals.
- Partner with Admissions and Student Services on recruitment messaging.
- Manage digital marketing, paid media, and ROI analysis.
- Ensure brand consistency across platforms, including ADA-compliant web content.
- Develop ECC's marketing vision, policies, and editorial standards.
- Use market research to guide strategy and assess campaign effectiveness.
- Promote diversity and inclusion in all marketing efforts.
- Lead internal communications: intranet, newsletters, institutional emails, and meetings.
- Oversee presidential messaging, speeches, and convocation communications.
- Manage editorial direction and production of major publications (e.g., Impact Magazine, Para Ti).
- Lead media relations strategy, including crisis response and media training.
- Build relationships with media to ensure accurate, positive coverage.
- Analyze media coverage and feedback to inform future tactics.
- Maintain communication policies and ensure message consistency.
- Serve on strategic committees and support student success initiatives.
- Plan and execute key institutional events (e.g., convocation, commencement, grand openings).
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in integrated marketing communications, marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field-or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, marketing, or communications, including team and budget management. Experience in higher education is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated success in brand management, strategic planning, and crisis communication.
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects in fast-paced environments.
- Strong knowledge of media relations, public relations, and marketing communications, with excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
- Proficiency in social media strategy, digital marketing, and content development.
- Familiarity with graphic design, photography, videography, and web content management systems.
- Experience writing speeches and developing communications for senior leadership.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets and manage consultants and deadlines effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to foster internal and external partnerships that support institutional goals.
- Familiarity with continuous improvement principles and practices is a plus.
- Understanding of the higher education landscape and its key audiences.
Nice-to-haves
- Master's degree
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
- Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA, DCA, Commuter)
- Retirement Plans (Pension, 457b, 403b)
- Time Off with Pay
- Professional Development/Expense
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Sick Banks
