Benefits:
401(k)
Competitive salary
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Profit sharing
Vision insurance
Start Date: Immediate
Location: Hybrid
Job Summary:
The Strategy and Development DIrector (SDO) is the leader who drives our communications, shapes our strategic direction and who ensures our marketing strategies advance the mission of Academics West. This individual will be responsible for spearheading our growth initiatives, storytelling initiatives and overall development arm. Working with a small team, this individual will lead efforts to align long-term goals with operational objectives, oversee the organization’s outreach and digital marketing efforts, and ensure the achievement of key performance indicators related to growth, partnerships, and community engagement. In this key position, the SDO will directly manage and support the Outreach Coordinator, Digital Marketing Specialist, Development and other outsourced professionals to ensure that all areas of marketing, communication and development are executed effectively and strategically. In this role you work closely with the Head of School and Chief Executive Officer and report monthly to the Board.
Our ideal candidate has a 10X growth mindset and is a creative leader with a depth of experience in developing and executing strategies, thoughtfully bringing them to life with inspiring multi-channel communications. The ideal candidate is ambitious, enjoys collaborating with a dynamic team, and is able to manage a team through support and clear expectations.
Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
Develop and implement comprehensive strategic plan for growth, partnerships, and market expansion plan
Lead long-term business planning processes in collaboration with the executive team and founder’s vision as well as school’s mission
Align strategic initiatives with organizational goals, driving sustainable growth
Monitor industry trends and competitive landscapes to inform strategic decisions
Ensure all internal and external digital material are on brand, unified, and integrated
Development and Growth Initiatives:
With support of founders, identify and cultivate new business opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations
Develop and execute an alumni relationship campaign
Support early-stage strategies to enhance fundraising efforts, grants, and donor engagement
Oversee the execution of business development plans, ensuring they align with Academics West’s mission and objectives
Delineate B to B and B to C marketing efforts and evaluate performance of each
Leadership and Management:
Oversee and provide guidance to the Outreach Team, Digital Marketing Specialist and other staff and related marketing consultants
Ensure cohesive messaging and consistent outreach efforts through digital and in-person channels
Support the professional development of the outreach and marketing team, fostering innovation and results-driven strategies
Manage budget and report monthly to ensure good ROI
Outreach and Community Engagement:
Direct outreach initiatives aimed at building strong relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and the community
Oversee the design and execution of outreach campaigns, public events, and community engagement efforts with a 10X mindset
Ensure outreach efforts are inclusive, culturally relevant, and aligned with the organization’s values
Work with outreach team to ensure strategic plan is being adhered to and delivered with clear messaging and to appropriate outside constituents
Digital Marketing and Brand Strategy:
Ensure digital marketing efforts align with broader organizational goals and drive measurable engagement
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of digital campaigns, making data-driven adjustments as necessary
Internal and external communication is consistently reviewed and edited to ensure messages are on brand, mission focused, and always reflects a positive voice
Ensure marketing plan systematically focuses on all essential stakeholders (i.e., professionals, schools, educational attorneys, parents and staff)
Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of strategic and development initiatives
Regularly report progress to the CEO, HOS and Board, highlighting achievements and areas for improvement
Use data-driven insights to adjust strategies and enhance the organization’s performance
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or related field (MBA or equivalent preferred)
8+ years of experience in strategic planning, business development, or marketing leadership roles
Proven experience in managing outreach and digital marketing teams
Strong understanding of business development, community outreach, and digital marketing strategies
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
Experience working with senior leadership and board members
Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple projects
Knowledge or experience working in NYC education space preferred
Skills and Competencies:
Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
Proficiency in digital marketing tools and analytics platforms
Strong partnership development, and stakeholder management skills.
Ability to foster a collaborative and results-driven team environment
Experience with data analysis and performance tracking tools
Strong knowledge of technology within digital marketing field and analytical software