Associate Director of Web Strategy & Experience

Associate Director of Web Strategy & ExperienceThe Associate Director of Web Strategy & Experience translates institutional, enrollment, and brand goals into user-centered web experiences leading strategy, governance, information architecture, and user experience while ensuring the operational health, technical integrity, and continual improvement of the college's enterprise CMS and its associated digital ecosystem.As a core member of the marketing leadership team, this role reports to the Senior Director of Marketing and works closely with the Director of Business Architecture Solutions & Web Development and peer associate directors in Content, Creative, and Marketing Automation.Key ResponsibilitiesWeb Strategy, Governance & LeadershipLead the development and continuous refinement of web strategy for central marketing-managed properties, aligning web experiences with institutional objectives, enrollment targets, and brand positioningOwn the web governance framework roles, workflows, and standards defining how web, content, creative, marketing automation, and campus partners collaborate on planning, creation, review, and publication to support the user experienceDirectly manage and develop.5 FTEs, providing clear direction, performance oversight, and professional growth opportunitiesCo-lead or participate in web and digital governance forums that set priorities and ensure adherence to brand, accessibility, and compliance expectationsUser Experience, Information Architecture & AccessibilityOwn information architecture, global navigation, and key user flows for central web properties, using research, analytics, and stakeholder input to optimize journeys for prospective students and other priority audiencesTranslate strategic and campaign goals into UX requirements, wireframes, and page-level experience blueprints that guide writers and designersEnsure accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA, ADA/Section 504) are embedded into web patterns, templates, and review processesPartner with the Associate Creative Director to maintain a consistent, brand-aligned web design system, balancing performance and accessibility with creative innovationAnalytics, SEO & OptimizationOwn the web analytics framework and KPIs for central web properties, measuring traffic, engagement, conversion, and content performance to support leadership decision-makingLead SEO, AIO, and GEO strategy, coordinating with web development, content, and creative leadership to integrate keyword targeting, on-page optimization, and technical considerations into planning and productionChampion continual improvement through A/B testing, human-centered design, UX research, and heatmapping tools on priority pages and flowsCross-Functional Collaboration & OperationsAdvise the Senior Director of Marketing and Director of Business Architecture Solutions/Web Development on strategic web optimizations, UX requirements, resource needs, and partnership opportunitiesPartner with peer associate directors in Content, Creative, and Marketing Automation to deliver cohesive, high-performing digital journeysOversee intake and prioritization of web work, balancing strategic projects, campaign needs, SEO/AIO/GEO, ADA compliance, and ongoing maintenanceServe as the primary marketing-side leader for collaboration with IT and external vendors on web platforms, infrastructure, performance, integrations, and securityRequirementsBachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Digital Media, Information Science, UX Design, or a related field35 years of experience leading or managing large-scale web properties in marketing, communications, or digital experience roles, preferably in higher education or similarly complex environmentsProven experience integrating UX, content, creative, and automation considerations into cohesive digital experiences that support enrollment and brand goalsDeep understanding of web UX, information architecture, and responsive design, and how they intersect with content strategy, creative direction, and marketing automationStrong knowledge of web analytics (GA4) and SEO/AIO/GEO concepts (SEMRush, BrightEdge), with ability to translate data into clear recommendationsWorking knowledge of accessibility standards (WCAG/ADA/Section 504), an enterprise CMS platform (Drupal/WordPress), and front-end code (HTML, CSS, basic JavaScript)Experience with major website upgrades or migrations, including quality assurance and functionality reviewsExcellent communication, facilitation, and change management skills with a track record of aligning diverse stakeholders around shared digital prioritiesStrong organizational and prioritization abilities, comfortable managing multiple concurrent initiativesWorking ArrangementsFull-time, in-person position based at our main campus in Burlington, VTStandard business hours (MondayFriday, 8:30am5:00pm) with occasional evening or weekend hours for special eventsComfortable office environment with extensive computer useCompensation & BenefitsAnnual Salary: $78,000 - $88,000Comprehensive Benefits Package:Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance with HSA and FSA optionsPaid Time Off: 16 holidays, 4 weeks of vacation, 2 weeks sick time, and 2 days of personal leaveRetirement: 403(b) plan with 3% employer matching contributionEducation: Tuition benefits for employees and family membersWellness: Gym discount and Wellness programs with up to $300 annual incentivesWelfare: Short-term and long-term disability coverage, plus life insuranceOther Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling services, access to employee discounts and local/national benefit programsApplication Instructions:To apply, please follow the link below and submit the following application materials:Resume/CVCover Letter addressing the desired qualifications and how your experiences contribute to the academic excellence and inclusive community at Champlain CollegeExamples of your work please either upload files or add links on the applicationThe College seeks candidates who can enhance its mission through their work, life experiences, service, teaching, or research. Please include specific examples of how you would contribute to these efforts in your Cover Letter.To streamline our hiring process and ensure fairness for all candidates, we manage all recruitment communications through our online application system. Please do not call regarding your application status. We'll reach out directly if we'd like to schedule an interview.The successful completion of a criminal background check is required as a condition of employment.Champlain College does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, place of birth, ancestry, religion, age, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, veteran or military service status, HIV -positive status, qualified disability, or on the basis of any other status protected by law, and does not discriminate in the administration of its education and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, employment practices or co-curricular and other College-administered programs. Champlain College will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified students, applicants for admission or employment, or employees.Champlain College is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. We believe that bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enriches education and strengthens our community. At Champlain, all members are valued as individuals and respected for their unique contributions.