Mitori appointed chief marketing and communications officer for Mizzou and the UM System

Columbia, Mo. — University of Missouri officials announced today the appointment of Jody Mitori as chief marketing and communications officer for Mizzou and the UM System, effective April 13. In this role, Mitori will oversee all marketing and communications activities at Mizzou and across the UM System. Mitori previously served in senior leadership roles in marketing and communications for Mizzou from 2019 to 2024. 

  

“Given Jody’s experience and strong reputation at Mizzou, she is well-positioned to serve as the chief marketing and communications officer for the University of Missouri,” said Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri. “I am confident Jody will continue to build on the strengths of the Division of Marketing and Communications to enhance our university’s reputation and visibility.” 

 

As chief marketing and communications officer, Mitori will lead a division of marketing and communications professionals to shape strategies and drive outcomes that enhance the reputation and visibility of Mizzou as well as further its position as a leading land-grant, R1, AAU institution and economic driver for the state, region and beyond. She will lead aligned, integrated and comprehensive strategic marketing and communications initiatives working with communications partners across the UM System and Mizzou to coordinate shared goals, messages, issues management strategies, branding, and reputation-building for schools and colleges, Government Relations, Advancement, MU Health Care, Mizzou Athletics, Extension and Engagement.  

 

Mitori currently serves as the executive director of strategic communications for WashU Medicine Marketing & Communications. In this role, Mitori has been building and leading the internal communications program for WashU Medicine’s more than 14,000 employees. She also served as a strategic adviser to the school's executive leadership team and Washington University's emergency management team, shaping messaging for internal audiences during both routine operations and emergencies.  
 

“I’m thrilled to return to Mizzou and the UM System,” Mitori said. “We have so many compelling stories to share about our students, faculty and staff whose work drives research, scholarship and engagement across Missouri, throughout the region and beyond. I’m honored to work with President Choi and the outstanding marketing and communications team at this pivotal time.” 

 

Mitori replaces Dr. John Middleton, who has led the Division of Marketing and Communications in his role as chief of staff since June 2025.