Summary of Essential Job Duties:

The Associate Vice President for External Relations and Partnerships leads a multifaceted, interdisciplinary organization that cultivates and stewards relationships with external leaders, organizations, businesses, governmental and non-governmental organizations in order to advocate for and advance the university's strategic interests, elevate the university's reputation, maximize visibility and prominence, and develop symbiotic partnerships. As a leader in an integrated Marketing and Communications organization, the incumbent is responsible for devising and pursuing strategies and tactics that promote a positive institutional image, extends the university's brand narratives, and grows supportive engagement with identified stakeholders, thought leaders, and influencers. This position overseas external relations, neighborhood relations, Playa Vista Initiatives, community engagement, LMU Radio, and units responsible for lobbying and public advocacy functions. This position acts as a senior advisor to the AVP of Marketing and Communications, the President, the Cabinet, the Deans, and other senior leaders. The position directs budgets, personnel, and resources responsible for strategic partnerships, engagement, and outreach.

Educational Requirements:

• Typically a Master's degree, preferably with a specialization in communications, public relations, political science, organizational or business management, or related field. Incumbent is expected to continue upgrading knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to keep abreast of best practices and industry trends.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years public relations or public advocacy experience in an institutional or corporate role with a record of management and supervisory experience; ability to work effectively and independently with internal and external constituencies and with professionals of varied disciplines to accomplish tasks and projects.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a senior leadership role with a hands-on collaborative style with cross-disciplinary direct reports and/or teams.
• Demonstrated experience managing and executing across multiple communications and marketing channels and media; highly developed skills in communications writing and editing;
• Highly collaborative style with experience developing and implementing communications strategies successfully; background that demonstrates relationship-building, consensus-building, flexibility, and managing through influencing;
• Evidence of high energy leadership style with a track record for leading both strategic and tactical communications efforts;
• Self-starter, able to work independently and entrepreneurially; experience creating, developing and implementing new initiatives;
• Demonstrated computer competency with common production software suites, such as photo editing software, email marketing tools, and analytics reporting software.
• Ability to produce high-quality deliverables with meticulous attention to detail. Must be metrics-driven and results-oriented with demonstrated analytical skills.
• Ability to provide quick turnaround and updates for multiple requests while maintaining strong reputation of high-quality work.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a cross-functional team.
• Must be able to perform successfully in a fast-paced, intellectually intense, and service-oriented environment. Experience working successfully within a complex organization. Willing and able to adjust to changing demands and shifting priorities.