Director of Marketing in Milwaukie, Oregon at Dark Horse Comics

The Director of Marketing leads Dark Horse’s marketing communications strategy, driving brand awareness and audience engagement across the direct/comic, bookstore, library, and digital markets. This role is responsible for developing and executing integrated communications and marketing programs that amplify Dark Horse’s publishing slate, strengthen relationships with creators and partners, and grow the company’s presence across all platforms and channels.

The Director of Marketing brings a strong background in digital strategy, content, and brand communications, and serves as a key creative and strategic voice for the Marketing Department. This role works closely with the VP of Marketing, editorial, product development, licensing, and distribution partners to ensure cohesive, high-impact marketing execution.

Marketing Communications & Brand Strategy

• Work closely with the VP of marketing to develop and execute integrated marketing communications strategies across digital, social, print, and event channels to support the Dark Horse publishing slate and brand identity.
• Lead content strategy and oversee the creation of marketing assets including social media content, newsletters, press materials, website copy, and promotional campaigns.
• Ensure consistency of brand voice and messaging across all platforms and touchpoints.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and audience behavior to inform strategy and identify opportunities.
• Oversee the management and optimization of Dark Horse’s social media presence across all platforms.

Digital & Campaign Marketing

• Plan, execute, and analyze marketing campaigns across digital channels in support of new releases, events, and corporate initiatives.
• Ensure marketing campaigns are delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with editorial and publishing timelines.
• Manage editorial content calendars in coordination with publishing, editorial, and product timelines.
• Leverage data and analytics to measure campaign performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Oversee email marketing programs including newsletters and CRM-driven communications.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

• Partner with editorial, product development, licensing, and design teams to ensure marketing programs are timely, accurate, and on-brand.
• Collaborate with distribution partners including Diamond Comics Distributors and Penguin Random House Publisher Services to coordinate trade marketing and retail communications.
• Work with the VP of Marketing to develop and manage the marketing budget and track expenditures.
• Represent Dark Horse at trade shows, conventions, and industry events as needed.

Creator & Partner Relations

• Maintain and build positive working relationships with creators, licensors, business partners, and the broader comics retail community.
• Support earned media and public relations efforts, including coordinating with PR partners and managing press outreach.
• Serve as a brand ambassador for Dark Horse in public-facing and industry settings.

Department Leadership & Staff Development

• Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to the Marketing Department, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team culture.
• Conduct regular one-on-ones and annual performance reviews for direct reports, providing clear, constructive feedback and setting measurable goals.
• Approve and review timecards and time-off requests for marketing staff in accordance with company policy.
• Mentor and develop marketing team members, identifying opportunities for professional growth, skill-building, and increased responsibility.
• Onboard and train new marketing staff, ensuring alignment with department processes, brand standards, and company culture.
• Model Dark Horse’s values and maintain a positive, professional departmental environment.
• Partner with HR and the VP of Marketing on staffing needs, performance management, and succession planning.

Standards of Conduct

The Director of Marketing is expected to represent Dark Horse Comics, Inc. in a professional and positive manner at all times. All employees are expected to comply with the standards of conduct outlined in the Dark Horse Comics Employee Handbook.

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or a related field; Master’s degree a plus.
• 5 or more years of experience in marketing, brand communications, or digital strategy.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing multi-channel marketing campaigns.
• Strong background in social media strategy, content creation, and community engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including copywriting and storytelling.
• Proficiency with marketing platforms and tools including social media management software, email marketing platforms, analytics tools, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience with PR, earned media, and press relations preferred.
• Familiarity with comics, book publishing, and/or pop culture strongly preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
• Some overnight travel required for trade shows and industry events.