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.

Job Duties

Brand Stewardship and Support 55%

• 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

Project Management 30%

• 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

Professional Development 10%

• 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.

Other duties as assigned 5%

• 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, deadlinedriven 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; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment, 12 month

Position Type: P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Please include a resume for a complete application.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.