Director of Marketing

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Director of Marketing

🔹 Company: Linfield University

🔹 Location: McMinnville, Oregon, United States

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time

🔹 Category: Marketing

🔹 Date Posted: June 18, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading Linfield’s brand and marketing strategy to enhance visibility and reputation
• Collaborating with various departments to develop and implement a comprehensive marketing strategy
• Managing university-wide marketing activities to reach targeted constituencies effectively and cost-efficiently
• Partnering with the VP for University Advancement and Director of Communications to oversee media relations and external communication strategies
• Promoting the achievements of faculty, students, staff, and campus leaders to enhance Linfield’s institutional reputation

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic, creative, and collaborative marketing leader with a proven track record in brand management and digital marketing. The ideal candidate will have experience in higher education and be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Work closely with the VP for Advancement, President, and President’s Cabinet to develop and implement an integrated, proactive, comprehensive marketing strategy and plan that enhances Linfield University’s brand, influence, and reputation

✅ Collaborate closely with the Enrollment division to carry out recruitment needs and requirements according to the recruitment cycle

✅ Work with Academic Affairs and Enrollment divisions to identify the most effective marketing strategy for growing enrollment at the university

✅ Establish strong, sustained marketing partnerships and lead annual marketing plan development efforts with key campus leaders

✅ Manage all university-wide marketing activities to ensure cost-effective strategies to reach prospective students, donors, and other targeted constituencies

✅ Oversee media relations, especially through the lens of earned media, in coordination with the VP for University Advancement and Director of Communications

✅ Study and keep apprised of trends in higher education and capitalize on opportunities for Linfield to be featured in ways that support the mission and strategic goals

✅ Work with the Director of Communications to define and implement external communication strategies through strategic, effective, and enhanced relationships with TV, radio, and print media within and outside of the Mid-Willamette Valley region and nationally

✅ Promote the achievements of faculty, students, staff, and campus leaders to enhance Linfield University’s institutional reputation at the regional, state, and national level

✅ Utilize appropriate metrics and analytics to report regularly on Linfield’s market position in relation to competing institutions of higher education in the region, the state, and the nation

✅ Partner with the marketing and communications team to coordinate digital outreach efforts and enhancements to the Linfield website

✅ Other duties as assigned by the Vice President for University Advancement

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills. The ideal candidate will have experience in higher education and be comfortable working in a collaborative, team-based environment.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Relevant bachelor’s degree in marketing (or related field)

Experience: 4-5 years of progressively responsible marketing experience

Required Skills:

• Proven record launching, positioning, and invigorating brands and entities
• Demonstrated knowledge of digital and social media marketing
• Ability to translate institutional and target insight into a brand position
• Strong leadership, initiative, and strategic thinking skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage significant budget lines
• Thoroughness, accuracy, and timeliness in completing essential duties
• Strong organizational, time, and project management skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Proficiency with computers, technology devices, software, and applications
• Ability to maintain confidentiality on all matters
• Active driver’s license

Preferred Skills:

• Master’s degree in marketing
• Experience in marketing in the education field
• Relevant graduate degree; prior experience with higher education

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in marketing, with a focus on brand management and digital marketing. Experience in higher education is preferred but not required.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $100,000 per year

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Tuition remission for employees and dependents
• Generous paid time off policy
• Employee assistance program

Working Hours: M-F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM with occasional evenings and weekends

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a Director of Marketing role in higher education. Benefits are typical for a university setting and may vary based on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Higher Education

Company Size: Medium (1,001 - 5,000 employees)

Founded: 1858

Company Description:

• Linfield University is a comprehensive, independent, coeducational, residential liberal arts college
• Located in McMinnville, Oregon, with a satellite campus in Portland
• Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and sciences, business, education, and nursing
• Known for its strong academic programs, personalized learning experiences, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Company Specialties:

• Liberal Arts Education
• Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Personalized Learning Experiences

Company Website: linfield.edu

ASSUMPTION: Linfield University is a well-established institution with a strong reputation in the higher education sector. It values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and offers a comprehensive range of academic programs.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level to Senior

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Vice President for University Advancement

Work Arrangement: On-site, with occasional remote work for meetings and events

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to advance to a senior leadership role within the University Advancement division
• Opportunities to collaborate with various departments and gain exposure to different aspects of university operations
• Chance to work on high-impact projects that enhance Linfield’s brand and reputation

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to advance within the University Advancement division and gain exposure to various aspects of university operations.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Traditional office setting with open-plan workspaces and private offices for leadership

Office Location(s): McMinnville Campus - McMinnville, OR

Geographic Context:

• McMinnville is a small city located in the Willamette Valley, approximately 30 miles southwest of Portland
• The area offers a mix of urban and rural living, with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions
• McMinnville is known for its wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries in the surrounding area

Work Schedule: M-F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM with occasional evenings and weekends for events and meetings

ASSUMPTION: The work environment is collaborative and supportive, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and open communication. The office setting is professional and modern, with opportunities for both independent work and team-based projects.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Initial phone or video screening
• On-campus interview with the Vice President for University Advancement and other key stakeholders
• Final interview with the President of the University
• Background check and reference check

Key Assessment Areas:

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Leadership and teamwork abilities
• Knowledge of higher education marketing trends and best practices
• Cultural fit and alignment with Linfield’s mission and values

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant marketing experience and skills
• Demonstrate your understanding of Linfield University’s mission and values in your application materials
• Prepare for interview questions that focus on your strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills
• Be ready to discuss your experience with higher education marketing and your familiarity with the higher education landscape

ATS Keywords: Marketing Strategy, Brand Management, Digital Marketing, Higher Education, University Advancement, Strategic Planning, Team Leadership, Media Relations, External Communications

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is competitive, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills throughout the interview process.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Marketing automation platforms (e.g., HubSpot, Marketo)
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot CRM)
• Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
• Search engine optimization (SEO) tools (e.g., Google Analytics, SEMrush)
• Graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience with marketing automation platforms, CRM software, and social media management tools. Familiarity with SEO tools, graphic design software, and project management tools is also beneficial.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity
• Excellence
• Community
• Diversity
• Inclusion
• Stewardship

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-based
• Data-driven and strategic
• Adaptable and responsive to change
• Committed to continuous learning and improvement
• Supportive and inclusive

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you align with Linfield University’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion?
• Describe a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in a project or initiative. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
• How do you prioritize and manage multiple projects and deadlines in a dynamic work environment?
• Can you provide an example of a time when you successfully led a team to achieve a significant goal or overcome a challenge?

ASSUMPTION: Linfield University values candidates who are committed to its mission and values, with a strong work ethic and a collaborative, team-based approach to work.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing a diverse range of stakeholders with competing priorities and expectations
• Balancing strategic, long-term marketing initiatives with immediate, tactical needs
• Working with limited resources and budget constraints
• Keeping up with the rapidly evolving higher education landscape and marketing trends
• Managing a team with varying levels of experience and expertise

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be able to navigate these challenges effectively, with strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Unlike other marketing roles in higher education, this position requires a strong focus on brand management and digital marketing
• This role offers the opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and have a significant impact on the university’s brand and reputation
• Compared to marketing roles in other industries, this position offers a unique blend of strategic, creative, and operational responsibilities

ASSUMPTION: This role is distinct from other marketing positions in higher education, with a unique focus on brand management and digital marketing, and the opportunity to work closely with senior leadership.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and implementing a comprehensive marketing strategy to enhance Linfield University’s brand and reputation
• Launching a targeted digital marketing campaign to increase enrollment in a specific program or department
• Managing a team to create and execute a successful marketing event, such as a university-wide open house or a targeted recruitment event
• Collaborating with the communications team to create and distribute press releases and other media materials to promote Linfield University’s achievements and initiatives

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, collaborative, and hands-on nature of the Director of Marketing role at Linfield University.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• How does this role fit into the university’s long-term strategic plan for growth and enhancement of its brand and reputation?
• What are the key priorities for the first 90 days in this role, and how can I best support the team and the university during this transition period?
• How does the university measure the success of its marketing initiatives, and what key performance indicators (KPIs) will I be responsible for tracking and reporting on?
• What opportunities exist for collaboration with other departments and senior leadership to enhance Linfield University’s brand and reputation?
• How does the university support the professional development and growth of its marketing team members?

ASSUMPTION: These interview questions are designed to help candidates better understand the role, the university’s priorities, and the opportunities for growth and collaboration.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the Linfield University employment portal: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=135279&clientkey=F16D49EDEBF447BF71AEBC32D5AF6AB5
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant marketing experience and skills, and demonstrate your understanding of Linfield University’s mission and values
• Prepare for interview questions that focus on your strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills, as well as your experience with higher education marketing and your familiarity with the higher education landscape
• Be ready to discuss your approach to marketing strategy, brand management, and digital marketing, and how you would apply these skills to enhance Linfield University’s brand and reputation
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.