Vice President for Enrollment & Marketing

The Opportunity

The University of Findlay seeks a Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing to provide visionary, passionate, and experienced leadership to a team of dedicated professionals and a university with impressive forward momentum. Reporting to President Katherine Fell, the successful candidate will provide oversight for the enrollment and marketing division comprising the admissions teams serving undergraduate, graduate, transfer, international and online students; the office of financial aid serving both new and returning students; the marketing and communications team serving the full university community; and be a crucial member of the President’s Cabinet. The vice president will lead the development and implementation of comprehensive strategic enrollment and marketing plans which support the University's enrollment and financial goals and reflect the priorities of the University’s five-year strategic plan ``Every Oiler, Every Step of the Way.”

This is an outstanding opportunity for a creative, experienced, successful enrollment manager who brings a depth of knowledge regarding complex markets and trends, a passion and enthusiasm to all facets of enrollment work, and an authentic desire to lead in a highly collaborative community.

The essential duties and responsibilities of the Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing include:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive, data driven enrollment management plan to support the financial and enrollment goals of the University and support the success of the strategic plan
• Oversee the implementation, evaluation and refinement of strategies, best practices, and tactics to increase enrollments
• Establish and articulate clear and measurable enrollment goals, benchmarks and key performance indicators
• Ensure all functional areas provide consistent high quality customer service and support to prospective students, their parents, and influencers, and that all programs managed by the offices within the division meet the highest standards
• Remain current on emerging issues that are impacting the marketplace of potential students in each of the recruitment areas within the division
• Serve as institutional representative on matters related to enrollment and marketing
• Advise the President, fellow members of Cabinet, and community members on enrollment trends and opportunities, fostering dialogue, creative solutions, broad engagement and successful outcomes
• Fully participate in Cabinet meetings and take active part in the leadership and strategic planning for the university

Recruitment, Operations and Management

• Strategic oversight in undergraduate, graduate, transfer, international, and online admissions, financial aid, and marketing and communications
• Set goals, motivate and manage staff, and monitor progress of core functional units
• Facilitate the collection, analysis, and reporting of data related to enrollment, financial aid, recruiting, marketing, and retention; lead the enrollment team in data analysis and development of initiatives and tactics when appropriate
• Assure that technology solutions such as Workday and Slate are implemented, and maximized to enhance the student experience, facilitate the capture of data, improve the efficiency of systems, and facilitate business practices across the University
• Oversee the office of financial aid in serving and empowering both current and prospective students, while maintaining critical compliance with federal and state funding sources
• Foster a culture of staff development, critical thinking, collaboration and leadership within the division

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

• Actively participate in the University’s commitment to be an equity-minded and inclusive community of belonging, opportunity, empowerment and success for a diverse array of students
• Accelerate the University’s successful recruitment of students from diverse populations, leading members of the enrollment and marketing division in further developing their own cultural awareness, competence and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
• Partner with faculty, staff, coaches, alumni, trustees, donors and community organizations to develop pathways for a diverse community of students, to enhance Findlay’s stature and reputation among regional, national, and international communities, and best utilize resources to support and retain students

Financial Acumen

• Manage and monitor all components of the budget for the enrollment management division
• Provide an experienced, contemporary approach to talent-based awards and need-based financial aid that reflect the strategic priorities and financial resources of the University
• Oversee strategies for modeling and leveraging financial aid with the ability to forecast enrollment, discount, and net tuition revenue
• Counsel collaborative decision makers in understanding the impact of pricing on diverse populations; the effective balance of merit and financial assistance for attracting and retaining students; management of student loan debt, the importance of financial literacy, and customer service

Partnerships and Relationships

• Lead communication and outreach efforts with high schools, community colleges, professional organizations and other entities to promote the University of Findlay
• Collaborate with deans, vice presidents, faculty, staff, and others involved with recruiting, admitting, and enrolling students to ensure clear communication and appropriate enrollment management and planning
• Foster a culture of transparency and dialogue in the dissemination of information including goals, data, and analysis
• Assure open communication and transparent decision-making with internal and external constituencies

Marketing and Communications

• Design, implement, and evaluate comprehensive marketing communications plans to address the specific interests and needs of unique student, parent, alumni and community populations
• Lead a sophisticated marketing and communications team in meeting the complex priorities of serving multiple audiences, and demonstrate expertise in evolving consumer expectations and behavior and changes in channels of communication
• Participate in executive level assessment of issues of concern, lead the marketing and communication team in the development of appropriate communication and dissemination of information, and serve as the institutional spokesperson in crisis communications
• Be the primary University spokesperson during times of crisis management

Qualifications, Abilities and Characteristics

The university seeks a vice president with enthusiasm, a commitment to a collaborative approach, knowledge of current trends and practices in enrollment management, and a working knowledge of systems and current technologies used to support the work of the division. The successful candidate should have significant proven experience in a leadership role in higher education. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required; and an advanced degree is strongly preferred, with at least 10 years relevant experience in admissions, marketing, financial aid and/or recruitment in higher education. In addition, candidates for this position should demonstrate the following:

• A proven track record in successful outreach and recruitment of prospective students including undergraduate, transfer, graduate, international, and historically underserved populations
• Best practices in enrollment management and demonstrated knowledge of strategies for successful recruitment, marketing and communication, assessment and planning
• Management style capable of fostering a culture of excellence, respect, and enthusiasm for the work to be done and goals to be accomplished
• Ability to foster a future oriented team who are able to translate goals, strategies and aspirations into tactical plans
• Strong public speaking skills and outstanding interpersonal communication skills required to interact effectively with campus, community partners, and the press.
• Business acumen and a global view of business processes
• Fiscally responsible, with a comprehensive, institutional perspective on executive level decision making and problem solving
• Desire to develop authentic, trusting relationships with campus partners
• Possess knowledge of, and strong practical experience in pricing and discounting strategies
• Experienced in the development, assessment and management of successful relationships with companies, communities and organizations contributing supporting the growth, development and reputation of the University in marketing, market research, aid leveraging, consulting and agent/student procurement services
• An understanding of NCAA regulations for Division II athletics and the ability to build partnerships with coaches and athletic administrators to facilitate the strategic recruitment of student athlete
• Demonstrated expertise in and commitment to recruiting students from underrepresented groups and to fostering a community of equity and inclusion in which all faculty, staff and students can thrive and be successful
• Exceptional listener who is able and willing to engage students, faculty, staff, and community members from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to be bold, creative and visionary while also being collegial, collaborative and inclusive
• Can work with energy and humility in a team environment
• Successful in planning, executing and completing projects which require the support and participation of multiple stakeholders
• Charismatic and engaging with a sincere love for higher education. Committed to finding creative, strategic approaches to enhance institutional health and progress
• Ability to build trusting transparent relationships on behalf of the division and its individual team members

The University of Findlay

University of Findlay traces its roots back to 1882 when it was founded as Findlay College. The institution changed its name to University of Findlay in 1989 to reflect its growth in enrollment and the breadth and diversity of its academic offerings, including newly instituted graduate programs.

Consistently ranked in the top tier of Midwestern universities in U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges,” the University has also been regularly recognized as one of the region’s best by Princeton Review and as a Military Friendly School.

In 2015, the University completed a significant capital campaign, raising $53 million against an original goal of $40 million. Since that campaign, fundraising has grown even deeper and broader. Focused efforts on expanding philanthropic support at the University of Findlay have resulted in several consecutive years of increased financial support and number of donors. Donor constituencies include alumni, parents, and robust support from the local community. The University is currently in the quiet phase of a comprehensive campaign, which includes support for scholarships, capital projects, laboratory renovations and expansions among other areas. To date, the campaign is ahead of schedule in commitments received.

The breadth of the University’s curricular offerings reflects a longstanding spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Through its six colleges— Business; Education; Health Professions; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; Pharmacy; and Sciences—Findlay offers 86 bachelor, 11 master and five doctorate programs of study as well as numerous endorsements and certificates. A high premium is placed on experiential and service learning at Findlay, and concerted efforts have been made to formalize relationships with businesses, schools, hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities in the region and nationally to enhance learning inside and outside the classroom.

Each college at the University of Findlay has a unique population of students, as well as its own distinctive academic programs. Renowned programs include equestrian studies, pre-veterinary medicine, nuclear medicine technology, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, and physician assistant, as well as environmental, safety and occupational health management. Nursing and sonography are two of the more recently added undergraduate programs of study.

University of Findlay cultivates the potential within each student through academic excellence, transformative experiences and a supportive community that is grounded in Christian faith. The graduate programs include master of business administration; master of arts in education; master of arts in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) and applied linguistics; master of physician assistant; master of science in applied security and analytics; master of science in health informatics; master of occupational therapy; master of science in environmental, safety and health management; master of arts in professional communication; master of science in radiologic sciences; and master of arts in rhetoric and writing. Professional doctoral degrees include doctor of education, doctor of education in school psychology, doctor of pharmacy, doctor of occupational therapy, and doctor of physical therapy.

In addition to its traditional pedagogy, online learning thrives at Findlay. A degree completion program leading to a bachelor of science degree is available entirely online in business management. Working collaboratively with the Vice President of Academic Affairs, there is opportunity to significantly grow online enrollments. The MBA; master of arts in education; master of science in health informatics; master of science in environment, health, safety, and sustainability; master of science in radiologic sciences; doctor of education; and doctor of education in school psychology are offered entirely online or in person on campus. UF is committed to adapting to the needs of its students.

The commitment of Findlay’s 329 full-and part-time faculty members to personalized teaching and learning permeates campus culture. Alumni and current students alike cite close relationships with faculty members as hallmarks of their educational experiences at Findlay. Many faculty members oversee internships and experiential learning opportunities.

Most also serve as academic advisors. Advisees may be those concentrating in a field offered through the academic division, first-year students or others who are still undecided about a program of study. Findlay’s student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. Many faculty are actively engaged in scholarship and research activity as well as the supervision of undergraduate and graduate research. Lively and frequent interaction between students and faculty is fostered and cherished. Findlay offers a number of academic calendars including standard fall and spring semesters, five eight-week block sessions as well as a variety of summer sessions in addition to weekend classes for some of the University’s professional programs.

Enrollment and Student Life

More than 3,500 students are enrolled at Findlay with 2,450 undergraduate students and 1,100 graduate students. Approximately 1,250 students live in University housing. Those students not living on campus commute or live in affordable and nearby off-campus housing.

Findlay’s diverse student population includes nearly 300 international students from more than 42 countries. Distinctive partnerships with University West in Sweden, the University of Applied Sciences in Austria, Rakuno Gakuen University and the Kake and Junsei Educational Foundations in Japan, and others have contributed to Findlay’s international appeal.

Findlay’s students are highly engaged in the life of the University. Students may participate in any of over 100 organizations, including special interest clubs, student media, student government, performing arts groups, service clubs, academic honorary organizations, spiritual life groups, and Greek sororities and fraternities. The fine arts flourish on campus through a variety of theater productions, art exhibits and vocal and instrumental music concerts that offer creative outlets and training for students while serving as a source of cultural enrichment for the community.

The University of Findlay participates in 22 intercollegiate sports. A member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II, University of Findlay competes in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (GMAC). Both equestrian teams are members of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association. The men’s basketball team captured the NCAA Division II national championship in 2009 and made it to the Sweet Sixteen in 2017. The English and western equestrian teams have won a lion’s share of national championship titles between them. Findlay also offers a range of club sports as well as 25 intramural sports to help keep the competitive spirit alive on campus.

In addition to balancing their co-curricular involvement with their studies, many Findlay students are also juggling part- and full-time employment and significant family responsibilities. Findlay students are well regarded for their sense of purpose, determination, and work ethic. All students, whether traditional or non-traditional; residential, commuter or online; and full-time or part-time, are at the heart of Findlay’s commitment to excellence.

Findlay’s more than 26,000 alumni of record include an array of entrepreneurs, educators, therapists, ministers, writers, artists, doctors, researchers, and business leaders.

The Campus and Its Facilities

Located in Findlay since its founding more than 130 years ago, the University has fostered excellent relations with its neighboring community. Fruitful town-gown relationships endure and continue to enrich and support campus programs. The University’s grounds and buildings, within a few blocks of the center of town, are attractive, well maintained, and safe.

There are 86 acres at the main campus, which includes academic, administrative, and athletic buildings, eight residence halls, 19 townhouse units, 21 cottages, eight special-interest houses, 10 group houses, and a number of facilities housing faculty and staff offices. The focal point of Findlay’s main campus is Old Main. Constructed in 1883, it is the University’s oldest building and houses classrooms, faculty and administrative offices, and an auditorium. Opened in August 2017, the University’s newest addition to campus is the 75,000-square-foot Center for Student Life and College of Business Building. This building houses the Bookstore, the College of Business and expansive student gathering and leadership development space.

Other campus expansions in the last two decades include five significant new buildings and the acquisition of the former Owens Community College Findlay-area campus, as well as Winebrenner Theological Seminary. A significant 42,000 square-foot addition to the Davis Street Building was added, greatly enhancing the environment for science education at Findlay.

In addition to the main campus resources, the University operates a 52-acre facility on the east side of town, the James L. Child, Jr. Equestrian Complex, containing the English equestrian studies program. A few miles south of campus is a University owned 152-acre farm housing the western riding and pre-veterinary medicine programs. In 2009, the University dedicated the Dr. C. Richard Beckett Animal Science Building on this site, an impressive $3.7 million facility that has allowed room for growth of its premier animal science programs. The five-acre All Hazards Training Center provides hands-on simulations for students, industry and government agencies involving emergency planning and response. The 30-acre Olive Street Wilderness Area is a well-utilized nature preserve, and the 55-acre Rieck Center for Habitat Studies serves as a biology field station.

Leadership

Dr. Katherine Rowe Fell has served as president of the University of Findlay since 2010. She is the University's 17th president and first female president. President Fell is known for her deep commitment to providing an outstanding learning environment for students, respect of the University's culture of shared governance, passion for supporting the community and a supportive leadership style that is influenced by a touch of Southern grace.

President Fell’s vision for the University of Findlay has guided UF to significant enrollment increases and a renewed focus​ on experiential learning and intercultural understanding. She has established new partnerships with universities and corporations that enhance the campus experience and elevate the University's reputation both domestically and abroad.

In partnership with President Fell, the Cabinet contributes directly to the strategic direction and daily operation of the university. The Cabinet is composed of seven members of the senior leadership including the Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing.

Finances

The University of Findlay has a strong balance sheet, increasing net assets and clean audits. Its operating expenses in FY 2021 totaled $80 million against unrestricted revenues of $81.7 million. Unrestricted net assets increased from $99.3 million in FY 2020 to $103.0 million in FY 2021, and total assets increased from $149.9 million to $168.2 million. The University has an endowment of nearly $60 million. Undergraduate tuition and fees are $37,188 and room and board is $10,088.

Strategic Planning

In June of 2021 the University of Findlay began the invigorating work of setting a new vision and strategic plan for the next five years. President Fell is leading an inclusive planning process, inviting participation from the greater Findlay community.

 The principles guiding the process are:

• The University of Findlay is grounded in Christian faith, welcomes all people and respects the roles of faith and reason in reflective study
• Merging the best of education in the liberal arts, the natural sciences, professional preparation and experiential learning is the ideal preparation for 21st Century careers
• We are all teachers. Teaching students is our most important responsibility; every trustee, professor and staff member should contribute to our students' learning
• Together with our students, we will always engage in a caring, honest, respectful and reasoned exchange of ideas
• As colleagues with our students, we should be prepared to serve people in need and to participate fully in a diverse, environmentally responsible, global society

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As part of the University’s commitment to achieve excellence, the University of Findlay values and actively promotes a welcoming and supportive environment that honors the many aspects of diversity. The University of Findlay is fully committed to building and cultivating a community where every individual can be their authentic self. To ensure that community members are seen, valued, and supported, we must intentionally create spaces of belonging and live out the diversity statement to “actively promote a welcoming and supportive environment that honors the many aspects of diversity. We aspire to foster acceptance of, respect for, and appreciation of all persons in our campus community. We celebrate our commonalities and unique differences, and we acknowledge that diversity broadens learning, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and prepares our students for meaningful lives and productive careers." https://www.findlay.edu/diversity-belonging/

To Apply

Napier Executive Search is assisting the University of Findlay in their search for the vice president for enrollment and marketing. To arrange for a confidential conversation, please contact Catherine Capolupo, catherine.capolupo@napiersearch.com, or Mary Napier, mary.napier@napiersearch.com. To apply, please send the following items: 1) a resume, 2) a detailed letter of interest, and 3) contact information for three professional references by email to: findlay@napiersearch.com. For assurance of full consideration, please submit application materials no later than May 23. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. All applications and nominations will be considered confidential and notice will be given before references are contacted. The vice president for enrollment and marketing is expected to start during the summer of 2022.

The University of Findlay is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer.  It is the university’s policy to prohibit discrimination and provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to their race, sex (including gender identity/expression), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, military or sexual orientation.