Chief Communications Officer

The University of Vermont (UVM) seeks a creative, visionary, and experienced professional to serve as its next chief communications officer. This senior-level position will act as a strategic thought partner and a dynamic and eager member of the senior leadership team who is ready to tackle an ambitious set of agendas at one of the nation’s most historic and respected public universities.

 

This talented and energetic individual will lead, supervise, and motivate a centralized communications team as well as provide overarching leadership and strategy to the chief communicators in the university's colleges, schools, and foundation. This is a compelling opportunity for an experienced and adept communications leader to: develop and implement creative and measurable internal and external communications plans that encompass publications, digital/social media, market research, public relations, media relations, and other aspects of strategic marketing; manage the University of Vermont website; and protect, promote, and update the university’s brand. The chief communications officer will be a direct report to Dr. Suresh Garimella, President of the University of Vermont in close managerial coordination with the president's chief of staff.

 

The chief communications officer advises the president and university leadership about strategic opportunities and initiatives that advance the profile and brand of the university and develops a compelling narrative about the significant education, scholarship, research, and public service offered by UVM; oversees university, college, and unit responses to crises and emergency communication; provides leadership as a university spokesperson on the local, state, national, and global level; and cultivates and leads a talented staff of communications professionals.

 

Since 1791, the University of Vermont has worked to move humankind forward. Today, UVM is a Public Ivy and top 100 research university of a perfect size, large enough to offer a breadth of ideas, resources, and opportunities, yet small enough to enable close faculty-student mentorship across all levels of study, from bachelor’s to M.D. programs. Here, students’ educational experience and activities are enriched by our location—from the energy and innovation of Burlington to the forests, farms, and independent spirit of Vermont. UVM provides students endless ways to explore the world, challenge ideas, and dig in on the most pressing issues of our time. This exceptional institution in an unparalleled location attracts top minds and talented professionals. UVM is committed to diversity and inclusion, ethical conduct, and working together to advance the University of Vermont’s mission to create and share knowledge and educate accountable leaders for humankind.

 

Inquiries, nominations and applications are invited. Candidates should provide a resume and a letter of application that addresses the responsibilities and requirements described in the leadership profile. The University of Vermont's consultants Melissa Fincher, Andrew Bowen, and Robin Mamlet can be reached at UVMCommunications@wittkieffer.com or via the desk of Christine Macias at 630-575-6993. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

 

A comprehensive leadership profile can be found at www.wittkieffer.com.

 

The University of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Applications from women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and people from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds are encouraged.