Episode 33: The Path to CCO+ with Libby May

Welcome to the Communications Business Advisor™ podcast with host Tara McDonagh. In this episode, Tara sits down with Libby May, Chief External Affairs and Communications Officer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)—the nation's largest provider of nonprofit higher education, serving over 200,000 learners. Libby shares how she built and now leads a 65-person External Affairs and Communications team encompassing communications, events, alumni engagement, donor and community relations, and government affairs—reporting to the university president. She explains why SNHU intentionally separates marketing from communications, how her centralized model and evolving structure strengthens reputation management and responsiveness in a highly regulated industry, and what it takes to grow a function from a team of one to a team of many. Tara and Libby discuss: The scope and structure of a 65-person External Affairs and Communications team Why marketing and communications sit separately—and still work hand-in-hand Leading through regulation: how comms and government affairs integrate in higher ed and what similar highly regulated industries have in common.  The difference between being "likable" and being an order taker—and how trust drives influence Centralizing communications: how to align internal, PR, and external relations for impact Measuring the "invisible" work of communications and taking credit for unseen wins Advocating for budget and resources: using evidence, readiness, and audience awareness The power of systems thinking: how being a "business advisor first" and a universal leader brings you a level further in your career Libby's evolution from agency leader to CCO—and how she shaped her own role Why curiosity, ambition, and continuous learning (including earning her MBA) fuel long-term leadership success AI as "the best intern you've ever had"—how to embrace technology while elevating "heart work" Libby also reflects on the importance of being approachable and human as a leader, and the courage it takes for communicators—especially women—to own their ambition and advocate for their seat at the table. (YES!!)  Visit taramcdonagh.com to learn more about working with Tara or sign up for her newsletter, Level Up: Be Extra. This episode is sponsored by Raise the Tide™, a program designed for women in communications in corporate, healthcare, and higher education—helping them advance their careers through mentorship, professional development, and community. If you found this episode valuable, please rate and review—it helps elevate our field and ensures more communicators have a voice at the table.  

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