Head of Marketing and Communications

1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants About the California Academy of Sciences The California Academy of Sciences is a globally renowned scientific and cultural institution located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. Home to a planetarium, aquarium, research center, and natural history museum—under one living roof—the mission is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. Our extensive collections span plants, animals, fossils, and cultural artifacts from across the globe and throughout history. We are a diverse team of biodiversity scientists, educators, storytellers, designers, and communicators who work collaboratively to advance knowledge and inspire action through science and storytelling. When you join, you become part of a mission‑driven community that values curiosity, collaboration, and innovation. About the Opportunity The California Academy of Sciences seeks a visionary Head of Marketing and Communications to lead its dynamic team. For 172 years, the Academy has been a beacon of wonder and discovery—home to the Steinhart Aquarium, a world‑class planetarium, and a collection of 46 million specimens that stretch back billions of years. The Academy is a pioneering scientific institution, advancing bold research and regenerative action to protect fragile ecosystems across the globe. As the Head of Marketing and Communications, you will shape how millions engage with science, nature, the future of our planet, and the evolving role of museums in civic life. We’re looking for a leader who can amplify the Academy’s voice, expand its reach, and inspire people everywhere to see themselves as part of Earth’s story. This position is based in San Francisco, California. Staff currently work on site at least 2–3 times per week, with flexibility as business needs evolve. We welcome candidates whose backgrounds don’t align perfectly with every qualification. If you have the passion, creativity, and drive to lead at scale, we encourage you to apply. Organization and Culture Join a team dedicated to the Academy’s mission and values. The Academy has a new strategic plan with initiatives such as Hope for Reefs, Thriving California, and Islands 2030 that leverage biodiversity science, environmental learning, and collaborative engagement to regenerate fragile ecosystems around the world. Learn more at the Academy’s major initiatives page. We encourage applicants who bring diverse backgrounds and experiences. This position is based in San Francisco, California. Staff are currently expected to work from the Academy offices 2–3 times per week, with potential variation based on business needs. Key Responsibilities Strategic Vision & Leadership Architect and champion a holistic marketing vision that positions the Academy as the definitive voice for regenerative science and a global cultural destination. Serve as the institution’s primary brand strategist, ensuring coherent storytelling across all touchpoints while balancing scientific rigor with emotional resonance. Lead a wholesale transformation from campaign‑driven tactics to evergreen brand building that redefines what museum communications can be. Develop and implement innovative audience development strategies that diversify and deepen engagement with Bay Area communities and beyond. Drive growth in attendance, membership, and revenue by creating conditions for sustainable success and cultivating the next generation of supporters. Establish and monitor key success measures, including membership growth, audience expansion, and brand equity. Collaborate with the Senior Director of Experience Studio to align brand narratives with the visitor experience. Organizational Influence & Stakeholder Management Serve as the marketing organization’s chief advocate, securing resources and removing barriers that limit impact. Partner with scientific leadership to translate research into compelling narratives that inspire public understanding and global action. Align marketing strategy with institutional priorities to support revenue and mission outcomes. Bridge external storytelling with internal delivery to build organization-wide alignment. Oversee vendor and agency relationships with clear expectations. Team Development & Operational Excellence Lead and mentor a high‑performing team of nearly 20, including four direct reports responsible for brand marketing, digital engagement, communications and content, and marketing operations. Establish performance frameworks balancing measurable results with long‑term brand building. Champion professional development, including AI fluency, to keep the team at the forefront of cultural marketing. Develop sustainable workflows and decision‑making processes to empower autonomy while sharpening strategic focus. Onboard best‑in‑class tools and platforms to enable collaboration and regular reporting. Innovation & Market Leadership Anticipate and capitalize on emerging trends in cultural marketing, digital engagement, and audience behavior. Pilot bold approaches to community engagement and position the Academy as a forward‑looking cultural institution. Forge partnerships with leading collaborators to amplify reach and cultural relevance. Follow all Academy safety regulations. Qualifications A successful candidate will have the following experience and education: Experience and Education Bachelor’s degree preferred. Minimum 15 years of senior marketing leadership experience with demonstrated success in brand strategy, audience growth, and organizational transformation. Proven track record leading teams through periods of significant change while maintaining operational effectiveness. Experience marketing mission‑driven organizations, cultural institutions, or experiential destinations strongly preferred. Background in both B2C consumer marketing and institutional communications. Leadership and Strategic Thinking Ability to synthesize a complex organization into clear, actionable strategies. Experience building consensus among diverse stakeholders with competing priorities. Experience managing substantial budgets (minimum $3M annually) with accountability for ROI and outcomes. Track record of developing and retaining high‑performing teams. Communication and Influence Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to senior leadership and board members. Ability to translate technical concepts into compelling public narratives. Experience in crisis communication and reputation management. Comfort with public speaking and representing the organization externally. Innovation and Adaptability Interest in emerging technologies, including AI, and their application to marketing and engagement. Experience with experimental marketing approaches and calculated risk‑taking. Understanding of modern marketing technology and data analytics. Interest in environmental issues and scientific literacy. Compensation and Benefits The salary range for this position is determined during the interview process. Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, including skills, knowledge, and relevant education. The Academy offers a total compensation package that includes base salary and benefits based on hours worked. Further details will be discussed during the interview process. Schedule : Full‑time, 40 hours per week How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a resume and application through the Careers Page portal. Equal Employment Opportunity The California Academy of Sciences will give full consideration for employment to all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance (SF Police Code, Article 49). Seniorities

Seniority level: Not Applicable Employment type

Full-time Job function

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