Strategic Communications & Integrated Marketing Advisor Services RFP

Winston-Salem State University is requesting proposals for strategic communications and integrated marketing advisor services under RFP 74-WS0041-2026, with proposals due October 27, 2026 at 1:00 PM EDT and public opening at 3:00 PM EDT the same day. The University requires a North Carolina registered vendor in good standing with an eVP vendor number; vendors without existing registration must complete registration at https://evp.nc.gov/SignIn before proposal submission.

The scope is executive-level strategic advisory to the Chancellor and Cabinet, with a dedicated managing principal or partner serving as sole point of contact. The advisor will provide counsel in executive strategy, strategic planning, executive communications, reputation management, enterprise marketing, brand governance, and integrated marketing and communications organizational development. The managing principal is expected to be present on campus monthly for progress meetings, with an estimated 160 hours of effort per month otherwise performed remotely. Implementation of marketing and communications deliverables will primarily be performed by internal university personnel, with the firm providing strategic oversight; certain projects may require hands-on implementation by both the firm and internal staff. The University anticipates conducting an executive search for a Chief Marketing Officer in spring 2027, with the selected firm envisioned to play an advisory role.

Minimum qualifications include 15–20 years of executive leadership experience in strategic marketing or communications, experience in brand strategy and integrated marketing for complex organizations, Cabinet-level advisory experience, and a managing principal holding a Master's degree; higher education expertise is preferred but not required, and preference is given to experience outside the higher education sector.

The initial contract term is two years with options for up to three additional one-year renewal terms at the University's discretion, provided written notice of intent to renew is given at least 60 days before the end of each term. Pricing is a fixed monthly retainer inclusive of travel and reimbursable expenses. The contract value is estimated to exceed $1 million based on insurance requirements. The incumbent is J Star Marketing LLC. Questions are due October 12, 2026 by 1:00 PM EDT to Richard R. Fleming, Director of Purchasing Services. Contract award is anticipated for November 2, 2026. Evaluation criteria include technical approach (weighted most heavily), qualifications, experience, references, pricing, and quality of responses to specific vendor questions. Proposals must include at least three references using the designated Customer Reference Form and complete required attachments including Certification of Financial Condition and Location of Workers Utilized. The selected vendor must register with the NC Secretary of State within 10 business days of award notification.