ASHLEY
HUNTER

I'm a full-stack marketing and branding professional who builds marketing functions and streamlines processes for lean marketing teams to meet their full potential. 

 

I offer a balanced blend of direct involvement and leadership across website management, social media content creation, graphic design, event management, and communications. This expertise in hands-on execution and managerial oversight gives me a full understanding of marketing operations, enabling me to understand each team's functions and foster a collaborative environment where cross-functional initiatives thrive.

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I currently serve in the inaugural head of marketing role with Academic Search, an executive search and coaching firm, where I oversee all aspects of marketing and brand management.

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I began my career as the Director of Marketing for the Rapid City Rush professional hockey team where my role focused on all aspects of marketing for the team including the creation and management of in-game motion graphics, advertising, photography/videography, marketing collateral, social media, and website. 

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Following my role with the Rush, I spent time as a freelance graphic designer, creating digital and print content for a wide range of clients. I worked on a wide variety of projects from the creation of logos to website design to mailers and stationery. Through this experience, I strengthened my client relations and business management skills.

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Most recently before joining Academic Search, I served as the Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA. I began with BVU as Communications Coordinator and earned two promotions in three years. During my time there, I worked with all departments on campus, with a particular focus on admissions and alumni engagement. Ioversaw the university’s website, social media channels, and digital advertising along with managing project intake and production timelines. I was a member of the crisis communications team and the diversity, equity, and inclusion task force, and held an interim role on the President’s Council.

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I earned my bachelor’s degree in mass communication and corporate communication from Black Hills State University and was the recipient of the Young Alumni Achievement Award in 2022. I earned my master’s degree in organizational leadership from Buena Vista University.