Executive Director of External Relations and Marketing

About the role

The Executive Director of External Relations and Marketing leads the strategic communications and external engagement program for the Walsh School of Foreign Service. Reporting to the Dean, this senior leader shapes the school’s public image, drives stakeholder engagement, and supports recruitment and alumni relations.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and direct a comprehensive communications strategy that raises the school’s profile among prospective students, alumni, policymakers, and the broader Washington, D.C. community.
• Oversee the communications, events, and alumni engagement teams, ensuring consistent messaging and efficient delivery across all channels.
• Develop and execute marketing campaigns to increase undergraduate and graduate applications, with a focus on international and under‑represented candidates.
• Strengthen alumni outreach through regular updates, faculty analysis of global issues, and targeted events in key alumni markets.
• Collaborate with faculty to promote research relevant to policy audiences and coordinate high‑profile visits from policymakers and practitioners.
• Advise senior university officials on communications, marketing, and event planning matters.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, marketing, higher‑education administration, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications or external relations, including 5 years of supervisory experience, preferably in higher education, government, multilateral or policy‑focused institutions.
• Demonstrated ability to write and present at a high level, build credibility quickly, and manage relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills with a proven track record of leading teams to achieve results.

What we offer

• A comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance.
• Retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, and work‑life balance initiatives.