Dara Royer

Chief Marketing Officer / SVP Marketing & Communications Division at Syracuse University

Professional Overview

Dara Royer is an accomplished marketing and communications executive with over 20 years of experience driving strategic brand development and integrated marketing initiatives across the non-profit, healthcare, and higher education sectors. As the Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of the Marketing & Communications Division at Syracuse University, she is responsible for leading the institution's comprehensive marketing and brand strategy, overseeing a team of marketing, communications, and creative professionals.

Current Role

In her current role at Syracuse University, Dara is spearheading the university's efforts to strengthen its global brand and reputation, enhance student recruitment and alumni engagement, and increase overall visibility and impact. She provides strategic oversight for all marketing, communications, and creative services, ensuring alignment with the institution's strategic goals and priorities. Under her leadership, the university has achieved notable success in digital marketing, social media, and content creation, contributing to increased enrollment, improved fundraising outcomes, and greater brand recognition.

Career Progression

Prior to joining Syracuse University, Dara held senior marketing and communications roles at leading non-profit and healthcare organizations. As the Chief Development & Marketing Officer at Mercy Corps, she led the organization's global marketing and fundraising strategies, driving significant growth in donor engagement and revenue. Earlier in her career, she served as the Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Mercy Corps, where she was instrumental in enhancing the organization's brand identity and digital presence. Dara also held leadership positions at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Cook Children's Health Care System, where she successfully spearheaded impactful marketing and communications initiatives.

Academic Background

Dara holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Michigan, where she graduated with distinction. She is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with a strong foundation in strategic planning, brand management, and digital marketing.

Areas of Expertise

Integrated marketing strategy and execution

Brand development and reputation management

Digital marketing and social media optimization

Content creation and storytelling

Stakeholder engagement and communication

Non-profit and higher education sector expertise

Professional Impact

Throughout her career, Dara has made significant contributions to the organizations she has served. At Mercy Corps, she led the development and implementation of a comprehensive global marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in donor acquisition and a 25% growth in annual fundraising revenue. At St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, she spearheaded a highly successful rebranding initiative that elevated the hospital's national profile and drove a 15% increase in patient referrals. In her current role at Syracuse University, Dara has been instrumental in enhancing the institution's digital presence and strategic messaging, leading to a 20% increase in student applications and a 12% rise in alumni engagement.

Conclusion

Dara Royer is a seasoned marketing and communications leader with a proven track record of driving transformative change and delivering tangible results for leading non-profit, healthcare, and higher education institutions. With her strategic vision, data-driven approach, and exceptional communication skills, she is poised to continue making a significant impact in her role at Syracuse University and beyond.