The Dean of Communications, working collaboratively with members of the Deans Council, reports directly to the Head of School to support the strategic communication efforts of the entire school, including the management, alignment and promotion of the LFA brand.  The Dean of Communications is responsible for the development and execution of an overarching, strategic communications plan for Lake Forest Academy, including print and electronic media.    

All candidates are expected to submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample through Lake Forest Academy’s online application: www.lfanet.org/about-us/employment. 

Responsibilities include:

Publications/Print Materials – working with Advancement and Admissions, provide creative and editorial content development, management, production, and distribution assistance for: 

1. The Review (school magazine published 3x/year)
2. Admission Viewbook and other admission materials/brochures (published annually) 
3. Fundraising marketing and solicitation materials 
4. Special Event marketing materials (Alumni Weekend and Reunion, Parents Weekend, Gala, and other Alumni and/or Parent gatherings) 
5. College Counseling materials (School profile)
6. Other collateral publications as needed (e.g. Faculty Recruitment brochure)

Website and Social Media

1. Manage, develop, and edit LFA’s website content and SEO 
2. Coordinate all LFA social networking activity, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, SmugMug, YouTube, Vimeo, and Merit 
3. Work collaboratively with the Athletic department regarding news and announcements
4. Coordinate and publish a weekly Parent E-news; oversee general blast email communiqués 

Public Relations Program

1. Send regular press releases and story pitches in advance to media outlets covering all areas of LFA life, including arts, athletics, and academics
2. Check sources for stories related to LFA and maintain files of media coverage 
3. Manage crisis communications, both internally and externally, including drafting communiqués for the Head of School and being the spokesperson to the media
4. Assist with neighbor relations and campus master plan communications  

Advertising

1. Develop and execute an advertising strategy to include print and digital platforms 
2. Work collaboratively with Admission to create advertising materials

Photography & Video 

1. Oversee LFA photography and video, including managing freelance photographers, videographers, and LFA photographic archives
2. Take photographs at various school events including evenings and weekends 
3. Take photographs of school day collaborating with faculty
4. Oversee the selection of photographs and videos for various publications
5. Provide/share photo and video resources with the internal and external community

Budget and Department Management

1. Manage Communications budget
2. Manage members of the of Communications department

Educational & Experience Requirements:

1. A minimum of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university (Masters preferred)
2. At least 5 years experience in communications, marketing and/or public relations 
3. Strong writing, editing, speaking, technical, organizational, interpersonal, and creative skills
4. Can-do attitude and ability to work with competing needs within the school
5. Knowledge of independent, boarding, and college-preparatory school culture and values
6. Strong references that convey a track record of success in the communications field

Other required characteristics:

• Supports and acts in accordance with LFA’s mission and values
• Upholds LFA standards of professional courtesy, punctuality, discretion and confidentiality
• Demonstrates appropriate planning and preparation
• Supports departmental goals and colleagues
• Willingness to work on a team and a desire to become involved in the life of LFA

Compensation/Benefits:

Lake Forest Academy offers a competitive compensation and benefits package that includes full medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and other benefits. Final salary will be commensurate with the experience and expertise of the final appointed candidate.

Limitations and Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. 

Employment at Lake Forest Academy is "at-will," which means that either you or Lake Forest Academy may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason without prior notice. 

In accordance with Lake Forest Academy’s policies and state and federal law, receipt of this position is contingent upon the individual’s successful completion of all requirements to establish the legal right to work in the United States, as well as a background check. In the event Lake Forest Academy has not received a complete background check prior to the first day of employment, employment will be on a temporary basis until such results are successfully completed.

Non-discrimination Policy:

Lake Forest Academy is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. This means Lake Forest Academy will not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, color, sex (including gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, transitioned, transitioning or perceived to be transitioning), sexual orientation (including heterosexuality, homosexuality, and bisexuality), marital status, domestic partner status, pregnancy and breastfeeding, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic characteristics or information, military and veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws.

Lake Forest Academy reasonably accommodates employees and/or applicants with disabilities, provided the individual is otherwise qualified to perform the essential functions of the job. If you believe that you need a reasonable accommodation, you must inform Lake Forest Academy’s Director of Human Resources & Risk Management.