Assistant Dean for External Relations, College of Engineering Boston, MA

Assistant Dean for External Affairs, College of Engineering

The Assistant Dean for External Affairs supports the Dean in advancing the College of Engineering's visibility, reputation, and external relationships in support of its academic and research mission. Reporting directly to the Dean and serving as a member of the Dean's leadership team, this position provides strategic leadership and coordinated oversight for four core external affairs pillars: brand and narrative (marketing, communications, and public relations);

student outcomes and pathways (career development); employer, industry, and civic partnerships; and selected alumni activities. The College has approximately 150 faculty, 100 staff, and 3,000 students.

The position is results-oriented, with clear accountability for measurable progress in the College's visibility and brand, student internship and post-graduation outcomes, and the depth and quality of key external relationships. The Assistant Dean leads the development and implementation of an integrated external affairs strategy, ensures that marketing and communications and career development functions operate as a coordinated system rather than separate units, and partners closely with academic and administrative leaders so that external efforts align with college priorities and resources.

This position requires an individual with strong leadership and management skills; exceptional judgment and diplomacy; and demonstrated strength in strategic thinking, project management, and building productive relationships with employers, alumni, and other external stakeholders. The successful candidate will be an excellent communicator, experienced using data to inform decisions, and adept at working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and central University partners to design and deliver initiatives that enhance the College's impact and reputation.

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Business Administration, Higher Education Administration, Public Affairs, or a related field required.
• Master's degree in a related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in external affairs, communications, advancement, alumni relations, government relations, public affairs, marketing, or related functions.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing strategic communications, engagement, or outreach initiatives.
• Experience managing relationships with external stakeholders, including alumni, donors, corporate partners, community organizations, and government agencies.
• Experience leading cross-functional projects and initiatives in a complex organizational environment.
• Supervisory experience with professional staff preferred.
• Experience with in higher education, nonprofit, healthcare, or similarly mission-driven organizations strongly preferred.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.