Jennifer Kirksey named senior director of enterprise marketing at Ohio University

Two-time Ohio University alumna Jennifer Kirksey has been named senior director of enterprise marketing at OHIO. Kirksey is returning to her first love of communications and marketing after serving for 10 years as chief of staff in the President’s Office. 

“Jennifer has long served as a trusted strategic advisor to Ohio University’s executive and academic leadership team,” President Hugh Sherman said. “She possesses a keen understanding of the ever-changing higher education landscape, which will serve her well in this new capacity. I am especially grateful to Jennifer for her advice and friendship over the years.” 

Vice President for University Communications and Marketing Robin Oliver said Kirksey’s institutional knowledge and passion for strategic communication will position the enterprise marketing team for great success. 

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to bring Jennifer back to the University Communications and Marketing team into a role that will leverage her strong skillset in communications planning, her broad understanding of our institutional goals and vision, and her great relationships across the institution,” Oliver said. “Jennifer has been a close advisor to me and my leadership team through the reorganization of UCM, and we know she will bring new ideas and energy as we continue to advance our work in support of our academic colleges and the reputation of the University overall.” 

Kirksey, who has served as chief of staff and a trusted advisor to three University presidents since 2012, said she was ready for a new challenge and is excited for the opportunity to return to University Communications and Marketing (UCM), where she started her career at OHIO.

“Strategic communication and relationship building have been the foundational elements of my two-decade career and core components of each professional experience, reflecting back to my inaugural role at OHIO on the University Communications and Marketing team,” Kirksey said. “I am excited for this enriching opportunity to serve my alma mater.”

During her tenure at OHIO, Kirksey has led and managed numerous interdisciplinary teams, which have advanced the institution by addressing operational needs, developing strategic visions and supporting the student experience. 

Kirksey, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Journalism at OHIO in June 1998, and a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication in December 2016, serves on the Athens Children's Conservation League and resides in Athens with her husband and two children. 

President Sherman said the University will announce a transition plan for the chief of staff role in the coming weeks.