Dean Stoyer named vice chancellor for communications
Stoyer brings experience leading communications and marketing teams at global brands like Nike, Under Armour and ESPN.
Dean Stoyer, who has led strategic communications and marketing teams at global brands like Nike, Under Armour and ESPN, is UNC-Chapel Hill’s new vice chancellor for communications, Chancellor Lee H. Roberts announced today.
Stoyer brings a wealth of expertise in crafting brand strategies and leading high-performing teams across industries. During his career, he has led global campaigns, managed crisis communications and provided counsel to executives and top athletes to align messaging for maximum impact.
“I am honored to accept this appointment and humbly thank Chancellor Roberts for entrusting this mission to me,” Stoyer said. “As I shared with the teammates, faculty and leaders I met with throughout this process, I have spent the past 30 years preparing for this role, and will bring my best to bear for UNC and all North Carolinians.”
Stoyer served at Nike during a $23 billion high-growth phase for the brand. He also led communications for the Nike Foundation, overseeing initiatives for the Girl Effect nonprofit in Rwanda and Ethiopia, and Access to Sport campaigns enhancing Nike’s social impact worldwide.
As chief marketing and communications officer for the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury and Footprint Center, Stoyer unified marketing functions, revitalized brand identity through powerful storytelling and achieved significant growth in app subscriptions, merchandise sales and TV ratings. Most recently, Stoyer served as chief brand officer for Trackhouse Racing and Entertainment, boosting social engagement and helping secure important partnerships.
“At Carolina, we want every North Carolinian to feel connected to our University and to recognize it as an accessible institution that makes a difference in their lives,” Roberts said. “Stoyer’s perspective, leadership and ability to galvanize audiences position him perfectly to accelerate this mission, elevating Carolina’s brand and fostering deeper engagement with our community.”
Stoyer begins his role June 30.
