Department Summary:

The Drake University Law School is the premiere private law school in Iowa and one of the Nation’s top law schools. The Law School blends a rich heritage with innovative technology and forward-thinking curriculum, including the nation's only First-Year Trial Practicum. Located in the heart of Des Moines, our law school offers an unmatched educational experience through cutting-edge facilities, a top-tier legal clinic, and robust connections with the legal community.

Since its founding in 1865 by Iowa Supreme Court Justices George Wright and Chester Cole, Drake Law School has stood among the 25 oldest law schools in the country. Our founders envisioned a place where students could witness the law in action, fostering a tradition of real-world, practical experience that we continue to uphold today. Now is an exciting time to join the Law School as it begins a new chapter and innovative vision for the future.

Job Summary:

Drake University Law School is seeking a dynamic, relationship-oriented, and highly strategic leader for the position of Director of External Relations, a senior leadership role that reports directly to the Dean and serves as a member of the Law School’s leadership team. The Director is the chief administrative officer responsible for strategic oversight and management of the Law School’s communications, marketing, alumni relations, events, media relations, and social media. The Director leads a two-person team of coordinators with expertise in the areas of (1) Marketing and Communications and (2) Events and Alumni Relations.

As an independent academic unit within Drake University, the Law School enjoys the flexibility to chart its own course while also benefiting from the University’s robust resources and collaborative opportunities. This distinctive position allows the Director to develop and execute strategies tailored to the Law School’s needs, while leveraging the strength of the University to expand impact and visibility.

Are you ready to inspire change and make a significant impact? This Director of External Relations is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative, creative leader to play a defining role in advancing Drake Law School’s mission, strengthening its reputation, and shaping its engagement with its dynamic alumni.

This senior role provides strategic oversight, long-term planning, and day-to-day management of the Law School’s brand and reputation. The Director will work closely with a wide range of departments and stakeholders, including the Dean, faculty, staff, students, and alumni to develop and implement communication, marketing, and engagement strategies to promote the Law School’s programs, events, and accomplishments.

Job duties include the ability to:

· Shape the Law School’s external presence through coordinated and innovative communications, marketing, media, and social media strategies;

· Strengthen alumni and community relations through targeted outreach, publications, and opportunities for engagement and support;

· Oversee signature events such as Supreme Court Celebration Week, Cady Day of Service, Dean’s Speaker Series, and major continuing legal education programs.

· Advance institutional priorities by collaborating with the university communication office and cultivating strategies to expand media opportunities, support alumni engagement, and enhance the visibility of the Law School’s distinct programs and accomplishments.

· Serve as the strategic voice of the Law School—building visibility and reputation through innovative communications, marketing, and alumni engagement strategies.

Minimum Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in marketing/communications, non-profit management, or a related field (advanced degree is helpful, but not required)
· Demonstrated success in leading complex projects, building relationships and inspiring teams.
· Proven ability to work collaboratively across diverse constituencies.
· Leadership experience in higher education, nonprofit, or professional communications is preferred, but not required.

Salary and Benefits:

At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time with our Drake Benefits Guide 2025. One of our popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. Tuition Benefits