Executive Director of Communications and Marketing

COMM SUPV 2 (006545)

UCPath Position ID: TBD_189591

Position Description History/Status

Approved Date:

9/23/2025 5:57:15 PM

Date Last Edited:

9/23/2025 5:57:11 PM

Last Action Effective Date:

Organization Details

Business Unit (Location):

LACMP

Organization Code:

1220O

Organization:

SCHOOL OF THEATER, FILM & TELEVISION

Division Code:

1221D

Division:

THEATER, FILM & TV DIV

Department:

046200 - DEAN THEATER, FILM & TV

Position Details

UCPath Position Number:

TBD_189591

Position Description ID

243077

UC Payroll Title:

COMM SUPV 2 (006545)

Personnel Program

Management and Senior Professional (MSP)

Salary Grade:

Grade 24

Job Code FLSA:

Exempt

Union Code (Collective Bargaining Unit):

99: Non-Represented (PPSM)

Employee Relations Code:

C: Supervisor - Not Confidential

Employee Class (Appt Type):

2 - Staff: Career

Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)

1

SUPERVISION

UCPath Reports to Position Number:

40297894

Reports to Payroll Title:

Dean, School of TFT

UCPath Department Head Position Number:

40297894

Department Head Payroll Title:

Dean, School of TFT

GENERAL SUPERVISION - Indicates that the incumbent develops procedures for performance of variety of duties; or performs complex duties within established policy guidelines.

6292

EVENTS SPEC 3

1.0

7461

MEDIA COMM SPEC 2

1.0

POSITION SUMMARY

The Executive Director of Communications and Marketing is the chief strategist and thought leader for all internal and external communications and marketing initiatives, for UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television (TFT). Reporting directly to the Dean, this position serves as a senior advisor on storytelling, media relations, event strategy, and brand strategy—translating TFT's academic and artistic excellence into compelling narratives that engage students, faculty, alumni, donors, and industry partners.

In alignment with UCLA's strategic plan to maximize global reach, deepen engagement, and advance institutional effectiveness, the Executive Director will elevate TFT's visibility as a catalyst for innovation in the arts and public humanities. The role will also reflect UCLA's brand pillars—from championing opportunities for students and faculty, to projecting a trailblazing spirit in navigating industry shifts, to celebrating the versatile influence and inspired inclusive excellence of TFT's creative community.

The Executive Director oversees communications, marketing and signature programming; drives digital strategy and content; manages external media relations and internal community engagement; and ensures that all messaging embodies TFT's commitment to creativity, innovation, and inclusive excellence. This leader will position TFT as a premier global destination for arts education and research, amplifying UCLA's impact across local, regional, national, and international audiences.

At the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television we are committed to being a world-renowned interdisciplinary professional hub, dedicated to cultivating exceptional humanistic storytellers, trailblazing industry leaders, and insightful scholars. Rooted in our rich heritage as a top-tier entertainment and performing arts institution, we champion diverse and innovative voices that have the power to enlighten, captivate, and usher in transformative change for a brighter future. By seamlessly blending the study and creation of live performance, film, television, and the digital arts through our groundbreaking curriculum, we offer not just education, but experiences. We take pride in our doctoral pursuits in theater, performance studies, cinema, and media studies. Our mission is to inspire, engage, and challenge the next generation of entertainment and academic leaders to create a more inspired and inclusive world.

Strategic Communications, Marketing

• Develop and execute a comprehensive communications and marketing strategy, that advances TFT's reputation locally, nationally, and globally

• Serve as the Dean's principal advisor on messaging, positioning, and crisis communications

• Supervise Director of Events who manages signature events, conferences, and public events that align with TFT's brand and storytelling goals

• Supervise Communications and Marketing Coordinator who coordinates a broad range of tasks, including content creation, social media management, and event coordination

• Align communications with recruitment, fundraising, and academic initiatives to support TFT's growth and visibility

• Craft talking points, speeches, and presentations for the Dean and senior leadership

40%

• Ensure consistent branding across all platforms—website, print, digital and media

• Use analytics and audience insights to assess and continuously improve communications

0%

Content Development & Media Relations

• Manage and prepare Dean and faculty for media interviews and public appearances with external news outlets

• Proactively pitch TFT stories to local, national, and industry media outlets to maximize coverage opportunities

• Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, articles, and other external communications materials

• Develop internal communications including newsletters and monthly missives to build school community and identity

• Oversee town halls/open spaces and faculty/student engagement events to foster school-wide culture

• Lead the creation of high-impact content for our website, including feature stories, video scripts, and multimedia materials that showcase student, faculty, and alumni achievements

35%

• Monitor entertainment and media industry trends to inform strategy and highlight TFT's thought leadership in evolving sectors (e.g., community engagement, streaming, labor, AI)

• Build and maintain strong relationships with UCLA Strategic Communications and external press partners to maximize coverage opportunities

0%

Digital Strategy & Content Management

• Oversee TFT's web presence and social media platforms to ensure timely, engaging, and accessible content

• Partner with technology teams to maintain a robust digital ecosystem that supports recruitment, alumni engagement, and donor relations

• Create content calendars that integrate with academic calendar, events, and strategic initiatives—making sure to inform the TFT community on deadlines and best practices in communications, events and marketing

• Employ web analytics to monitor, assess, and optimize the School’s website for maximum impact.

15%

Leadership & Program Management

 • Lead a communications, marketing, and events team (staff and student workers), fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture

  -Screen applications, interview candidates and either make selection decisions or recommend individuals for hire.

  -Train and assign work to new and continuing employees. Provide guidance on performance standards and University procedures.

  -Independently conduct performance evaluations, including communication with subordinates.

  -Make recommendations for employee incentive awards and salary increases including merits and reclassifications.

  -Determine what discipline should be imposed for subordinates, with authority to apply such, and/or submits/recommends same to higher level management.

 • Manage budgets for communications, marketing, and events initiatives, ensuring cost-effective use of resources

 • Serve as TFT's liaison to College Communications, and UCLA Strategic Communications, coordinating efforts for capital campaigns and institutional priorities

10%

•

Performs other duties as assigned.

•

Complies with all policies and standards.

•

Complies with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Principles of Community.

•

This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Required

Master's Degree

Master’s degree or advanced coursework in communications, marketing, or arts administration.

Preferred

10 years

Demonstrated experience leading strategic communications, marketing, and events for complex organizations, preferably in higher education or arts/media

Required

Expertise in media relations, including pitching stories, managing press relationships, and preparing executives for interviews

Required

Experience in speechwriting for senior leadership and internal communications

Required

Strong knowledge of digital platforms, content management systems, and social media

Required

Proven ability to translate institutional goals into compelling narratives for diverse audiences

Required

Superior writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple platforms

Required

Experience supervising staff and managing budgets

Required

Commitment to EDI principles in communications and team culture

Required

Familiarity with entertainment and media industry trends and constraints

Preferred

Experience with fundraising communications and alumni engagement

Preferred

Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and marketing analytics tools

Preferred

Experience in crisis communications and reputation management

Preferred

Background in event production and venue management

Preferred

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.

LOCATION AND PHYSICAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, MENTAL (PEM) REQUIREMENTS

Environment and Work Location Information

Environment Type:

Non-Clinical Setting

Location Setting:

Campus

Location:

202 E. Meltnitz Hall

•

Office equipment including computer, printer, copier, etc.

Standing/Walking

X

Sitting

X

X

Bending/Stooping

X

Squatting/Kneeling

X

Climbing

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull 0-25 lbs

X

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull 26-50 lbs

X

Lifting/Carrying/Push/Pull over 50 lbs

X

Physical requirements other

X

Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes

X

Loud noise levels

X

Marked changes in humidity or temperature

X

Microwave/Radiation

X

Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment

X

Exposures other

X

Sustained attention and concentration

X

X

Complex problem solving/reasoning

X

X

Ability to organize & prioritize

X

X

Communication skills

X

X

Numerical skills

X

X

Mental demands other

X

X

Classification 3:  Position in which exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues is not part of the position description. The normal routine task involves no exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues and the employee can decline to perform tasks which involve a perceived risk without retribution.