Director of Marketing and Communications

University of Kigali is Seeking a Director of Marketing and Communications

Position Overview: University of Kigali is looking for a dynamic and experienced individual to fill the role of Director of Marketing and Communications. This senior leadership position will play a crucial role in shaping and promoting the university’s image, managing relationships with key stakeholders, and driving strategic marketing and fundraising initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning and Leadership

• create and execute comprehensive marketing and institutional advancement strategies.
• guide and oversee the marketing and advancement team, setting goals and monitoring performance.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align marketing and advancement initiatives with the university’s mission and goals.

2. Marketing and Communications

• Oversee the creation and execution of marketing campaigns to promote the university’s programs and events.
• oversee the university’s brand, ensuring consistency across all marketing materials and communications.
• create and keep relationships with media outlets, handling press releases and media inquiries.
• Utilize digital marketing strategies, including social media and content marketing, to enhance the university’s online presence.

3. Fundraising and Alumni Relations

• Plan and execute fundraising campaigns, including annual giving, major gifts, and planned giving.
• Build and keep relationships with alumni, donors, and key stakeholders.
• Organize and oversee fundraising events and donor recognition activities.
• Oversee the development of grant proposals and reports.

4. Enrollment Management

• Collaborate with the admissions team to create and execute student recruitment strategies.
• Analyze enrollment trends and adjust marketing strategies accordingly.
• create promotional materials and campaigns to attract prospective students.

5. Community and Public Relations

• Act as the primary spokesperson for the university in public and community engagements.
• create partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and community groups.
• Promote the university’s community service initiatives and highlight student and faculty achievements.

6. Budget and Financial Management

• create and oversee the marketing and institutional advancement budget.
• track expenditures and ensure cost-effective use of resources.
• produce financial reports and projections for senior leadership.

7. Data Analysis and Reporting

• Collect and analyze data to measure the effectiveness of marketing and advancement efforts.
• produce regular reports on marketing and fundraising performance, presenting findings to senior leadership.
• Use data-driven insights to refine strategies and enhance outcomes.

8. Staff Development and Training

• Recruit, train, and mentor marketing and advancement staff.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment.
• deliver professional development opportunities to enhance team skills and knowledge.

9. Crisis Management

• create and execute crisis communication plans.
• oversee communications during emergencies, ensuring accurate and timely information dissemination.

10.Compliance and Ethics

• Ensure all marketing and advancement activities comply with university policies and ethical standards.
• Stay informed about industry best practices and legal requirements.

Qualifications and professional experience

• Master’s Degree: Preferred in marketing, communications, public relations, business administration, or a related field.
• Certifications in marketing, fundraising, public relations, or related areas (e.g., Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE), Professional Certified Marketer (PCM)) are a plus.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in marketing, communications, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic marketing plans and campaigns.
• Experience with digital marketing, including social media, email marketing, and content marketing.
• Experience in alumni relations and building relationships with donors and stakeholders.
• Significant experience in a leadership role, managing teams and projects.
• Strong strategic planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to guide, mentor, and create a high-performing team.
• Experience working in a higher education environment and understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in the academic sector.
• Experience as a spokesperson and in managing public and media relations.
• Ability to build and keep relationships with community partners and stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to create compelling messages and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with social media platforms, web analytics, and content management systems.

Personal Attributes: Strategic Thinker, Relationship Builder, Results-Oriented, Adaptability, High integrity 

Application Requirements:

Your application should include relevant documents and details showcasing your qualifications and experience:

• A cover letter summarizing relevant experience in the position; 
• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of Academic Certificates;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact;

All applications should be addressed to the Vice Chancellor and submitted to recruitment@uok.ac.rw not later than 8th August, 2026. Hard copies will not be considered.

No application will be considered after the closing date. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

Done at Kigali, July 24th 2026

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Prof. George Kimathi

Vice-Chancellor

University of Kigali