Shawnee State University seeks dynamic, strategic, and innovative candidates for Chief Enrollment & Marketing Officer

SHAWNEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Shawnee State University (SSU), located in Portsmouth, Ohio, is an open access regional public institution known for its commitment to providing exceptional, student-focused education. Established in 1986, with historical roots dating to 1945, SSU serves as a vital educational and cultural center in the Appalachian region. The university primarily functions as a teaching institution with a strong emphasis on delivering personalized learning experiences that foster academic excellence, practical skill development tied to workforce needs, and lifelong learning.

SSU offers a comprehensive range of academics, with over 70 undergraduate programs and several graduate programs spanning key fields such as its nationally ranked game design programs, business, health sciences, education, engineering technologies, advanced manufacturing, and the arts and sciences. The universitys dedication to creating an environment that nurtures student success is evident in its small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and meaningful student-faculty interactions.

Serving a student body of approximately 3,300, the majority of which are the first in their families to go to college, SSU includes both on-campus and online learners, catering to the needs of traditional, non-traditional, and distance education students. The universitys flexible learning options and targeted support services help ensure that students can pursue their academic goals regardless of their backgrounds or schedules. This commitment to inclusivity and accessibility contributes to the universitys role as a regional leader in educational advancement and community engagement. See the SSU Strategic Plan(2021 2026).

The universitys picturesque 62-acre campus is situated along the scenic Ohio River, offering a serene backdrop conducive to both study and leisure. State-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, residence halls, and recreational spaces, enrich the student experience and support a well-rounded education. SSU also integrates technology throughout its curriculum to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in a fast-changing global environment.

Shawnee State Universitys partnerships with regional businesses and industries enhance its focus on practical, career-oriented education. The university emphasizes workforce development through collaborations that provide students with internships, experiential learning, and direct pathways to employment upon graduation.

MISSION STATEMENT

"We prepare todays students to succeed in tomorrows world."

VISION STATEMENT

We will be a best-value university offering a wide range of high-quality signature programs.

Enduring Values

Student-focused Service

We place students at the center of everything we do and every decision we make.

Community engagement

We value the diverse perspectives of the people within our community on and off campus and our role in enriching the lives of those who work, live, and discover here.

Authentic Dialogue

We respect open, honest, and sincere two-way communication.

Thoughtful Risk-taking

We value innovation and encourage those around us to dream big and explore new possibilities.

Culture of Continuous Improvement

We look for opportunities to make what we do well today even better tomorrow.

UNIVERSITY LEADERSHIP

Dr. Eric Andrew Braun was appointed as the eighth President of Shawnee State University in 2024, bringing innovative and entrepreneurial leadership during a transformative period in higher education. Over his 15-year tenure at SSU, he has excelled in areas including enrollment management, finance, fundraising, development, and government relations.

From 2015 to 2023, Dr. Braun served as Vice President for Advancement & Enrollment Management, overseeing recruitment, admissions, development, alumni relations, athletics, financial aid, and workforce partnerships. He played a key role in developing SSUs Kricker Innovation Hub, a space designed to foster regional entrepreneurship and creativity and secured essential support to realize the project.

Dr. Braun began his senior leadership at SSU in 2009 as Executive Director for Development and President of the SSU Development Foundation. A Portsmouth, Ohio native, he holds an undergraduate and law degree from Wake Forest University and a doctorate in organizational leadership from Vanderbilt University. He is admitted to practice in multiple courts, specializing in corporate law and real estate. Dr. Braun serves on various boards, including the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and OhioMeansJobs, contributing to economic and educational development.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Shawnee State University seeks a dynamic, strategic, and innovative leader as its Chief Enrollment & Marketing Officer. This high-impact position drives comprehensive enrollment management and marketing initiatives to elevate the universitys profile and attract a diverse student body. The ideal candidate is action-oriented and data-driven, adept at crafting and executing strategies that align with institutional goals and resonate with key audiences. This leader will inspire teams, leverage cutting-edge technology, and forge community partnerships to position SSU as a first-choice institution and fuel sustainable enrollment growth.

Responsibilities

Enrollment Management

• Strategically manage the entire enrollment lifecycle from prospect to matriculation. Utilize data analysis to optimize recruitment strategies and improve yield rates. Collaborate with academic and student service units to create seamless enrollment experiences. Lead initiatives to diversify and grow the student body through targeted recruitment campaigns.

Marketing Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement strategic marketing plans to enhance SSUs brand and reputation. Lead data-driven marketing initiatives that align with enrollment goals and target key demographics. Drive digital marketing, public relations, and advertising efforts to broaden outreach. Foster innovation in marketing approaches to engage prospective students effectively.

Team & Partnership Development

• Build and inspire a high-performing team focused on achieving enrollment and marketing objectives. Cultivate partnerships with schools, community organizations, and stakeholders to expand recruitment channels. Enhance relationships with alumni and regional partners to support outreach efforts. Mentor staff, fostering professional growth and a culture of collaboration and excellence.

REPORTING AREAS

The Chief Enrollment & Marketing Officer at Shawnee State University will oversee the following key areas to drive cohesive strategies and ensure a seamless student experience:

• Admissions
• Bursar
• Registrar
• Student Business Center
• Financial Aid
• Marketing

This comprehensive structure supports a collaborative, integrated approach to the student experience emphasizing the critical partnership between these areas to achieve institutional success.

Qualifications

• Masters degree in higher education or related field. Minimum of 6 years experience in enrollment management or related fields (e.g., recruitment, admissions, financial aid, etc.).

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Strategic and innovative thinker, skilled in developing comprehensive marketing and enrollment plans. Strong analytical abilities with a data-driven approach to decision-making and problem-solving. Proven leadership in building and inspiring collaborative, high-achieving teams. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage diverse audiences and build relationships. Adept in digital marketing, advertising, and public relations, with a focus on brand enhancement. Ability to cultivate partnerships with educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations.

COMPENSATION

Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with the experience level, credentials, and characteristics of the candidate. An outstanding benefits package will be included as part of a complete compensation package.

THE COMMUNITY

Portsmouth, Ohio, is a charming city nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, offering a blend of historical character and vibrant community spirit. Situated in the scenic Appalachian region, Portsmouth is surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, making it an attractive location for outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts numerous parks, trails, and recreational areas perfect for hiking, biking, and kayaking, including the popular Shawnee State Park and Forest, known as the "Little Smokies" for its picturesque landscape. The city is also rich in cultural heritage, with a historic downtown that features local shops, restaurants, and a strong sense of community.

Portsmouth is conveniently located within driving distance to major metropolitan areas, providing residents with the benefits of both small-town living and access to city amenities. It is under an hour to Huntington, West Virginia, under two hours to Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio, and just over two hours to Lexington, Kentucky. This proximity allows for easy day trips to larger cities for additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options, while still enjoying the relaxed pace and natural beauty of southern Ohio.

Relevant websites that provide meaningful information about the region are as follows:

• Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce: https://www.portsmouth.org/
• Explore Scioto County: https://www.explorescioto.com/
• 22 Best & Fun Things to Do in Portsmouth: https://thetouristchecklist.com/fun-things-to-do-in-portsmouth-ohio/
• Visit Lawerence County: https://www.visitlawrenceohio.com/
• Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, Morehead, KY: https://www.sheltoweetrace.com/
• Visit Cincinnati, OH: https://www.visitcincy.com/
• Visit Columbus, OH: https://www.experiencecolumbus.com
• Visit Lexington, KY:https://www.visitlex.com/

APPLICATION & NOMINATION PROCESS

CBIZ EFL Associates (https://eflassociates.cbiz.com), an executive search firm, is assisting Shawnee State University with its search for this important leadership position. All calls and inquiries should be made through the search firm. Nominations and applications will be held in strict confidence and candidates will remain confidential until the final stage of the search, at which time the express permission of finalists will be obtained before their candidacy is made public.

APPLICATION PROCESS

• STEP 1: Complete a brief online application (2-3 minutes):
  • Click here to apply or
  • Copy/paste the URL into browser: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SSU-ME
• STEP 2: Send us your cover letter and rsum or curriculum vitae:
  • Send in PDF format
  • Send to ApplyHigherEd@eflassociates.com
  • Email subject line should read: SSU E&M Application KEY DATES

• Application deadline isJanuary 17, 2025.
• Semi-Finalist video Interviews are scheduled forFebruary 19^th and 21^st, 2025.
• On-Campus Interviews are scheduled forweek of March 24, 2025. The desired start date is negotiable

CONFIDENTIAL INQUIRIES

Steve Waldron, JD

VP & Managing Director, Higher Education Practice

816-945-5423, swaldron@eflassociates.com

NOMINATIONS & APPLICATION QUESTIONS

Edith Ketay

Project Manager, Higher Education Practice

816-841-4001, edith.ketay@eflassociates.com