Oakland University hires Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

Chris Foley Pilsner has been appointed as Oakland University's Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

Oakland University President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz has announced the appointment of Chris Foley Pilsner as the university’s chief marketing and communications officer – a newly created position created in conjunction with the Strategic Vision 2030 initiative to elevate brand awareness and the power of an Oakland University education.

Foley Pilsner will begin her new role with Oakland on Monday, October 27.

In an email to the campus community, Pescovitz said, “I hope you will join me in welcoming Chris and supporting her efforts to advance Oakland in every way possible.”

Foley Pilsner was selected following a national search under the campus leadership of Josh Merchant, chief of staff, secretary to the Board of Trustees who served as chair of the OU Search Committee.

Foley Pilsner brings a wealth of experience leading integrated brand, marketing and communication strategies, as well as a successful track record of digital transformation and organizational change in higher education settings.

“Oakland’s student-centered mission and deep commitment to community are truly inspiring,” Foley Pilsner said. “I’m excited to work alongside colleagues all across campus to share that story and help elevate the university’s impact and success.” 

Foley Pilsner comes to OU following her tenure as executive director of relationship management and digital experience at the University of Massachusetts Amherst – a role created for her after her considerable success in the role of assistant dean and chief marketing officer at the university’s highly acclaimed Isenberg School of Management.

In both roles, Foley Pilsner has led enterprise-wide strategies that integrate marketing, technology and cross-functional governance to advance student success and strengthen institutional reputation.

Foley Pilsner’s professional foundation in brand strategy began with 15 years of experience in advertising, leading integrated campaigns for global clients like Diageo, Kraft and Novartis at agencies including JWT, Deutsch and Havas.