Assistant Vice Chancellor, Integrated Communications - UTK

The assistant vice chancellor for integrated communications is part of the executive leadership team in the Office of Communications and Marketing (OCM). Reporting to the vice chancellor for communications and marketing, the AVC for integrated communications will lead a high-performing team of communications professionals in the areas of news and public relations, media and internal relations, research marketing and communications, and a new team dedicated to integrated planning with colleges and major university units. The position will work collaboratively with other members of the division’s executive leadership team, which includes AVCs for marketing and brand strategy, brand partnerships and licensing, university events and experiences, and finance and administration, as well as communications leaders across the university, to advance the reputation and goals of the university and its colleges.

This leadership role requires a strategic thinker with excellent communication skills, capable of collaborating across different campus units. The position is expected to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring all team efforts contribute meaningfully to both short-term initiatives and long-term institutional priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead news and public relations, media and internal relations, and research marketing and communications teams. Ensure communications programs and work products advance broader university reputational goals through communications planning and strategic leadership. Provide leadership for crisis and critical communications and reputation management in coordination with director of media and internal relations and vice chancellor for communications and marketing.
• Build and lead a new team dedicated to understanding college and major campus unit goals and working cooperatively to provide strategic support. Develop integrated communications solutions, increase transparency, and clarify roles between OCM and campus partners. Lead shared annual planning with clear execution pathways; oversee a portfolio of brand-aligned, third-party vendors for university use; and maintain ongoing two-way communications between communications leaders across the university and within OCM.
• In partnership with the associate vice chancellor for marketing and brand strategy, develop and manage two-way communications structures to support marketing and communications leaders across the university.

Required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Decision-making and Problem Solving: Ability to make informed, timely decisions with sound judgement, even under ambiguity.

• Strategic Communication Expertise : Comprehensive understanding of institutional marketing strategies including messaging, branding, and media relations.

• Leadership and Team Development : Proven ability to lead teams, foster collaboration, and support a culture of accountability and innovation.

• Relationship Building and Influence : Strong interpersonal skills to engage internal and external stakeholders, lead change, advocate for institutional priorities, and maintain trust.

• Executive Counsel : Ability to understand leadership needs across the university and provide strong counsel backed by communications and/or marketing data.

• Communications Planning : Experience in creating data-driven communications plans that support specific goals and priorities.

• Strategic Thinking and Adaptability : Capacity to anticipate trends, identify opportunities, and pivot strategies in dynamic environments.

• Crisis and Issues Management : Skilled in developing and executing communication strategies during high-pressure or sensitive situations.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, advertising, journalism or related field.

Experience

Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in progressively responsible roles.

Preferred

Education

Master’s degree

Work Location

• Knoxville, TN
• This is an onsite position

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: MR19

The university offers a highly competitive benefits package that includes health insurance and retirement plans through the State of Tennessee, generous annual and sick leave accruals, longevity pay, tuition waivers and discounts, and more.

Application Instructions

For full consideration, applicants must apply electronically and submit a cover letter, resume, and the names, email addresses and phone numbers of three references. A minimum of two references should be current or previous supervisors.

About The College/Department/Division

The Office of Communications and Marketing is dedicated to advancing the university’s reputation. Staff members support the institution’s mission and goals, promote its successes and achievements, inform and engage its stakeholders, and ensure the integrity of its brand. We craft audience-focused communications based on data, best-practices, and emerging trends.

The division comprises several cross-functional teams, employing professionals with expertise in design, development, video production, content strategy, feature writing, editing, marketing, media relations, internal communication, and special events.

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