Associate Vice-President, Marketing & Brand Strategy

Located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, the University of Waterloo is one of the world’s most relevant, connected and innovative institutions – a beacon for creators, explorers and boundary-pushing thinkers – and known for its global leadership in co-operative education and experiential learning.

The University is seeking a strategic marketing and brand leader for the role of Associate Vice-President of Marketing & Brand Strategy (AVP, MBS).

Reporting to the Vice-President, University Relations, the AVP, MBS is responsible for the navigation and positioning of the University of Waterloo’s profile and reputation in the context of an increasingly complex and competitive post-secondary landscape in Canada and internationally. The AVP develops the institutional brand strategy, platform and marketing campaigns, and creates differentiating strategies and campaigns to build the institution’s profile and reputation. The AVP supports the adoption of brand positioning guidelines across the institution and champions data-informed decision making. Valuing relationships and creating authentic connections to support a coordinated brand presence is core to the role. In addition, the AVP, MBS supports projects related to global rankings and reputation, and collaborates with relevant campus leaders to develop strategies to build awareness, profile and reputation in Canada and targeted international markets.

The ideal candidate brings over a decade of leadership experience in marketing or brand strategy gained within a public or private sector organization. Adept in current and emerging marketing and communications technologies, candidates should demonstrate experience tracking data and trends, and matching purpose and audience. A valued partner who supports collegial and collaborative relationships, candidates require a deep appreciation for the value of post-secondary education and the role of universities in transforming lives. A big thinker and active listener, candidates possess a well-developed understanding of Canada’s economy, combined with a sensitivity to the unique character of the academic environment. The ideal candidate values curiosity, courage, engagement and belonging, and is eager to help share the University’s unique and vibrant story with the world.

The University of Waterloo is partnering with Odgers Berndtson on this recruitment. Applications are encouraged immediately at https://www.odgersberndtson.com/en/careers/17272. The Vice President and Advisory Committee will begin their review of candidates in late summer. For more information, please contact Julia Robarts of Odgers Berndtson at julia.robarts@odgersberndtson.com or 866-962-1990 ext. 323.

The University of Waterloo and Odgers Berndtson respect, appreciate and encourage diversity. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, ethnic origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ability or disability. Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. The University of Waterloo and Odgers Berndtson are committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities.

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land promised to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is centralized within our Indigenous Initiatives Office.