Brand Marketing Strategist

The Brand Marketing Strategist is a part of the University Marketing Communications department responsible for raising the profile of the University of Minnesota and promoting University initiatives, education, research and community engagement. The Account Services team facilitates projects and provides strategic direction in collaboration with partners across the University to advance and promote University initiatives.

The Brand Management Strategist is responsible for the day-to-day implementation and maintenance of the University's brand standards and supporting consistent brand application across units and channels. Reporting to the Brand Manager, this role executes brand stewardship activities, manages brand inquiries and compliance, and supports the development of training and resources that help communicators apply the brand correctly.

This role is ideal for a professional who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment on a team that values expertise, thoughtful leadership, and shared success. The University of Minnesota offers a dynamic environment where your expertise can contribute to advancing the reputation of one of America's leading research universities.

This role is hybrid and will require a regular cadence of in-office work (2-3 days per week) and in-person attendance for key departmental and team meetings. Details will be worked out with the supervisor at the point of hire.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

• Communicates brand policies and standards and suggests updates as technology evolves
• Provide day-to-day management of brand trademarks and related assets, including management of brand email and inquiries, brand audits and compliance reviews
• Counsels units on brand policies and standards in collaboration with brand manager; serves on UMN sign committee
• Assists with developing relevant marketing and brand management trainings and resources
• Assists with and maintains brand management programs
• Assists with developing marketing plans and presentations on brand and marketing initiatives
• Supports and assists Senior Account Services Director and Senior Brand Strategist on key marketing initiatives
• Maintains a commitment to the University's goals that encourage equity and diversity

• Works with stakeholders and clients to gather and document project requirements
• Responsible for translating requirements into project brief and facilitating project team meetings
• Provides background and details to project teams and manages all aspects of project development
• Provides strategic direction to ensure content, design, and development to meet project and client needs
• Determines appropriate channels to fulfill a business need or address a challenge
• Identifies and resolves barriers to meeting project objectives
• Tracks project process in project management system, providing status reports to University Marketing Communications leaders through project lifecycle
• Collaborates with Measurement and Analytics team to develop project reports
• Establishes strong working relationships and regular contact with University communicators and external entities

• Completes professional development, education, and training activities, consistent with being responsible for the responsibilities of the position.
• Stays current on brand identity, project management, and technology trends.

• Assists with other marketing and digital projects as they arise.

Required

• BA/BS degree in communications, journalism, marketing, art or related field
• Four years of professional marketing communications experience, including managing brand systems and marketing communications projects
• Proven ability to apply brand principles and standards across marketing channels
• Strong verbal/written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a collaborative, deadline driven environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse partners and perspectives.
• Outstanding project management skills and decision-making
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in informal and formal teams with individuals from diverse communities and cultures
• Ability to facilitate work of various departments to accomplish common goals
• Very detail-oriented

Pay Range: $77,600 - $80,000 annually;…