Manager of the Department of Marketing and Communications, Cardiff University

Position Title: Manager of the Department of Marketing and Communications
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan

About the Role

Cardiff University Kazakhstan is seeking an experienced and proactive Marketing and Communications Manager to lead and coordinate the University's marketing and communications activities.

The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the development and implementation of the University's marketing strategy, promoting its academic programmes and achievements, strengthening the University's brand and reputation, and ensuring effective communication across internal and external audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Marketing Strategy and Planning

• Contribute to the development of, and lead on the operational implementation of the University's marketing strategy and annual marketing plans.

• Support brand governance

• Contribute to marketing research and market insights

• Manage the marketing budget, in collaboration with the Head of the Marketing Department.

• Analyse market trends, target audiences, and competitor activities to identify opportunities.

• Marketing Campaigns and Promotion

• Develop and coordinate marketing and promotional campaigns for academic programmes and student recruitment.

• Develop and maintain promotional, advertising, and communication materials in line with the University's brand and values.

• Promote the achievements and activities of University faculty and staff.

Digital Marketing and Communications

• Manage digital marketing activities, including social media, online advertising, email marketing, and website content.

• Ensure University communication channels are accurate, up to date, and consistent.

Events and Public Relations

• Develop and coordinate marketing and communications activities to promote University events, including education fairs, Open House events, presentations, and school visits.

• Develop promotional materials and content to support events and increase engagement with target audiences.

• Contribute to activities that enhance the University's profile, visibility, and reputation.

Partnerships and External Relations

• Maintain effective professional relationships with relevant external stakeholders in support of the University's marketing and communications activities.

• Support external communications and engagement activities that enhance the University's visibility, profile, and reputation.

• Represent the University professionally at relevant external meetings and events within the scope of the role, working with the relevant teams where appropriate.

Projects and Reporting

• Plan marketing and communications projects with internal departments and external service providers.

• Contribute to the preparation and monitoring of relevant contracts and agreements.

• Prepare reports and analyse the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, events, and other activities.

Coordination and Administration

• Work closely with academic and professional services departments to coordinate marketing and communications activities.

• Manage the work of external agencies, suppliers, and service providers where related to marketing activity.

• Ensure marketing and communications activities are effectively planned and delivered.

• Perform other duties assigned by authorised University management within the scope of the role.

Requirements

Essential

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Business Administration, Media, Management, or a related field.

• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related area.

• Experience developing and implementing marketing campaigns and communication activities.

• Experience in managing events or working with event management teams

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organisational and project management skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Experience working with digital marketing channels, including social media, email marketing, and online advertising.

• Experience preparing marketing and communication materials.

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

• Fluency in Kazakh and Russian.

• English language proficiency at С1 level or above.

Desirable

• Experience working in a higher education institution.

• Experience working in an international organisation or on international projects.

• Experience in brand management and institutional communications.

• Experience organising marketing, PR, educational, or recruitment events.

• Experience managing external agencies, suppliers, or service providers.

• Familiarity with CRM, website content management systems, analytics platforms, and other digital marketing tools.

• Knowledge of the higher education market in Kazakhstan.

Professional Conduct Expectations

• Represent Cardiff University Kazakhstan professionally and in accordance with the University's institutional values.

• Maintain a high standard of professional and business communication.

• Ensure that all marketing and communications activities are accurate, appropriate, and consistent with the University's brand and reputation.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive, internal, and commercially relevant information.

• Comply with applicable legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, University policies, procedures, and internal regulations.

• Demonstrate cultural awareness, respect, and professionalism when working with colleagues, students, partners, and external stakeholders.

• Maintain high standards of integrity, accountability, and professional conduct.

Terms and Key Dates

• Application deadline: October 7, 2026

• Start date:  Immediate, subject to notice period and required employment formalities.

• Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience