Director of Marketing, Communications, and Industry Relations

Job Summary

The Director of Communications, Marketing, and Industry Relations for Auxiliary Enterprises (AE) provides strategic leadership and hands-on execution of integrated marketing, branding, and communications initiatives that support revenue generation, brand visibility, and alignment with University priorities.

Essential Functions

• Contributes insights and recommendations to strategic planning and performance reviews; develops and executes action plans; and communicates standards for production, productivity, quality, and customer service.

• Oversees and enhances website content; identifies trends; conducts audits; resolves issues; and leads system improvements and change initiatives.

• Plans, develops, implements, and evaluates advertising, merchandising, and trade promotion programs by coordinating requirements, schedules, contacts, mailing lists, and field sales action plans.

• Ensures promotional materials are current and available by collaborating with the graphics department, managing inventory, placing orders, and verifying delivery.

• Plans and organizes promotional presentations and maintains updated marketing calendars to ensure timely execution.

• Collaborates with content providers to ensure all marketing materials are consistent, accurate, and aligned with established messaging and branding standards.

• Optimizes relationships, logistics, negotiates contracts, and ensures supply continuity and consistency.

• Represents Auxiliary Enterprises programs to the broader community, with the concurrence of the AVP of Auxiliary Enterprises.

• Participates in professional meetings and engages with external organizations to build relationships and advance AE visibility.

• Serves as an ambassador for the UMass Auxiliary Enterprises program, promoting its mission and value to internal and external audiences.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing or related field.
• At least eight (8) years of experience in market research, marketing communications, advertising, media, promotions, public relations or related area.
• Experience in working with internal and external partners- university departments, suppliers, vendors and community.
• Supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of promotional strategies, online marketing and market research methodologies.
• Excellent communication, project management, analytical, writing, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated competency with computers and data systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a higher education environment.