Associate Director of Strategic Planning

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

University Communications and Marketing protects and advances Carolina's reputation as the nation's first and best public research university. In partnership with leaders and colleagues across campus, the team is responsible for developing and implementing an integrated strategy to share the impact of our university's teaching, research and service that improves our state, nation and world. Areas within University Communications and Marketing include Web Planning and Production, Internal Communications, Development Marketing, Executive Communications, Strategic Communications, Marketing, Social Media, Creative Services, and the UNC Visitors Center.

The Associate Director of Strategic Planning serves as the second-in-command to the Director, ensuring continuity of leadership, sound decision-making and consistent stakeholder engagement. They oversee the day-to-day operations of the Strategic Planning team, where the strategy and execution of communications and marketing campaigns intersect. This includes balancing workloads, setting priorities and supporting team development. The Associate Director of Strategic Planning is responsible for reviewing and strengthening strategic briefs to ensure clarity, rigor and alignment before campaigns move into execution. In addition, this position coaches and develops Strategic Planners to elevate strategic thinking, integration, and the effective use of insights. They also own a portfolio of key schools or units, acting as the senior strategic lead for complex or high-visibility campaigns, and facilitates cross-team alignment to ensure strategies are cohesive and executable across functions.

Master's or Bachelor's and 0-2 years' experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.

* Advanced knowledge of strategic planning principles, marketing strategy and integrated communications.
* Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable recommendations.
* Strong consultation and facilitation skills, including the ability to lead planning discussions with diverse stakeholders.
* Excellent written, verbal, presentation and interpersonal communication skills.
* Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
* Ability to build relationships, influence decision-making and work effectively across a decentralized organization.
* Ability to interpret performance data and apply insights to improve strategy and outcomes.
* Proficiency with analytics, reporting, and work management tools such as Google Analytics, Asana, and similar platforms.

* Master's degree in Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, Higher Education, or a related field.
* Experience in higher education marketing, branding, or communications.
* Experience presenting to senior leaders and facilitating strategic planning sessions.
* Experience developing dashboards, performance reports, and measurement frameworks for communications or marketing initiatives.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.