Marketing and Communications Manager

Position Summary

The Marketing and Communications Manager is responsible for the overall strategic development, management, and execution of the school's marketing, communications, and public relations efforts. This role is vital for raising brand awareness, driving student enrollment, increasing retention, and fostering strong relationships with all school constituencies, including prospective families, current students, parents, alumni, and the wider community.

This is a dynamic, hands-on role that requires a blend of strategic planning and day-to-day tactical execution. The manager must have strong writing, organizational, and design skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Strategy and Planning

· Develop and implement a comprehensive, proactive annual marketing and communications plan that aligns with the school's mission, values, and strategic goals.

· Conduct market research to understand the independent school landscape, competitive advantages, and target audiences.

· Set priorities and manage the communications and marketing budget.

Marketing and Branding

· Act as the primary brand ambassador, ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across all platforms, both digital and print.

· Create compelling stories and content that highlight the school's strengths and achievements.

· Oversee the design and production of all marketing collateral, including the school prospectus, annual report, admissions materials, and event invitations.

Digital Presence

· Lead the school's digital marketing efforts, including managing the school's website, social media strategy, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO).

· Create, publish, and manage engaging content across social media channels (e.g., Facebook, Instagram).

· Serve as the content editor for the school's website, ensuring all information is accurate, engaging, and up to date.

Communications and Public Relations

· Manage both internal and external communications to ensure a consistent and timely flow of information.

· Act as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and write and distribute press releases.

· Draft and publish the weekly community newsletter and other periodic communications.

· Assist with crisis communications as needed.

· Develop and execute an engagement plan with local congregation of churches.

Enrollment and Advancement

· Collaborate closely with the School Board to produce marketing materials that support enrollment and fundraising goals.

· Plan and promote key admissions and advancement events, such as open houses, donor receptions, and community gatherings.

Events and Content Creation

· Coordinate event promotion for school-wide activities.

· Capture high-quality photography and videography of school events and daily activities for use in publications and digital media.

Collaboration and Teamwork

· Work collaboratively with school leadership, administrators, faculty, and staff to support school objectives.

· Manage relationships with external vendors, contractors, and agencies, such as graphic designers and printers.

· Remain current on best practices and trends in independent school marketing and communications.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Education and Experience

· Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.

· Proven experience in a marketing and communications role, preferably within an independent school or nonprofit setting.

Communication Skills

· Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.

· Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Technical Skills

· Proficiency with digital marketing tools, including social media platforms, email marketing software, and content management systems (CMS).

· Familiarity with graphic design software, such as Canva or the Adobe Creative Suite.

· Experience with photography and videography is a plus.

Organizational Skills

· Excellent organizational and project management abilities, with a strong attention to detail.

· Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Personal Attributes

· A creative and strategic thinker with a proactive approach.

· A passion for the school's mission and a desire to contribute positively to the school community.

· High level of energy, initiative, and confidentiality.

Employment Details

Full-time position reporting to the Board of Trustees Marketing Committee Chair.

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, resume, and list of references.

Applications should be sent to office@clsedu.org by Nov 21st.

Join us in shaping the future of our students through academic excellence, formed in faith.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Westminster, MD 21158