Executive Director Of University Advancement Communications

Posting Title

Executive Director of University Advancement Communications

Overview

The Executive Director of Communications for University Advancement leads the strategic development and execution of all communication efforts within the Advancement Division. This will consist of shaping the overall messaging for the Division, focusing on creating narratives that demonstrate the impact of philanthropy on the University to outside constituents. Tactics include publication development, collateral creation, and digital and social media. Additionally, the Executive Director will participate with others on the creation of a strategic communications plan for the University's next comprehensive campaign. That work will extend to the execution of all collateral (both print and digital) for the campaign.

Other responsibilities include close coordination with the Annual Fund, Alumni Engagement, and Advancement Events teams in creating appeals and other communications vehicles, providing strategic counsel to maximize philanthropy via online and social promotion for colleagues in central Advancement, (and extending to our school-based advancement directors / deans), and managing crisis communications for the Division, (this work will be coordinated with the University's Marketing and Communications division and lead communications officials). The Executive Director will write and craft philanthropic messaging for university leadership (including the University President, Vice President for University Advancement, and others) and will serve as the liaison between the Division and the University's Office of Marketing and Communications. The position will manage a team of communications professionals and external vendors to support the division's goals and objectives.

The projected salary or hourly pay range for this position which represents the full range of anticipated compensation is: $110,00- - $115,000.

Responsibilities

• Working with AVP, leadership team, and key stakeholders both within Advancement and across the schools of the University, develop and refine comprehensive communications plans for the Division. Serve as the creative driving force behind all donor communications efforts and emphasize the transformative power of philanthropy on the university's mission, programs, and community.• Lead the development and execution of messaging and collateral for comprehensive campaigns, working closely with stakeholders to articulate campaign priorities and impact through various mediums, including print, digital, and video. • Serve as the editorial voice for leadership, (VP, AVPs, President and executive cabinet as it requires), providing strategic guidance on philanthropic messaging and overseeing the creation of written communication materials, including speeches, messages, and campaign documents. • Manage the 4 members of the advancement communications team, providing strategic direction for print, web, social media, and video production efforts to drive the philanthropic efforts of the division. Ensure timely delivery of feedback and continuous professional development opportunities for the team. Conduct thorough and timely performance management reviews. • Write, edit, and plan content for key advancement communications vehicles, including print materials, web content, solicitation materials, and alumni publications, ensuring consistency and alignment with divisional messaging. • Oversee the work of freelance writers and other communications vendors, ensuring high-quality deliverables that align with divisional priorities and branding guidelines. • Collaborate with stewardship staff and university leadership to develop and implement timely and personalized donor communications, maintaining alignment with divisional messaging and language. • Serve as the liaison between the Division of University Advancement and the Office of Marketing and Communications, coordinating on all public announcements and crisis communication issues related to philanthropy. • Coordinate with schools across the University on the development of school-specific collateral and communication strategies to support fundraising and stewardship efforts. • Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the Advancement Communications program and make recommendations for enhancements to better serve the division and university goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required and at least 7 years of professional experience working in communications or marketing, preferably in higher education, development/advancement, nonprofit fundraising, or both.

• Excellent writing and editing skills essential with an emphasis on versatility between outputs (collateral materials, proposal writing, web).

• Creative and innovative approach to communications for philanthropy and alumni engagement will be actively sought.

• Substantial experience building or revamping communications programs in either nonprofit or higher education settings very beneficial, particularly in a campaign setting.

• Background in design / layout management for print a plus, as well as experience with basic web and email design using interface programs and templates.

• The successful candidate will possess the ability to work in an environment that puts a strong emphasis on metrics and success as well as the capability to manage a team, and to work independently.

• Candidate will possess a demonstrated ability to take initiative and be a self-starter; manage projects; determine priorities and maintain a high degree of professionalism and confidentiality.

• Excellent proofreading and editing skills; strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills are essential

• Ability to prioritize work and general office procedures.

• Proven and demonstrated management ability, to manage professional staff on a team and with regard to project management.

• Ability to work independently, under deadlines, without close supervision; self-direction in the initiation, coordination and completion of tasks; acute attention to detail.

• Excellent relationship-building skills; ability to work effectively with internal and external constituencies, including individuals of significant influence and affluence.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

• familiarity with Raisers Edge (alumni and donor database software) preferred but not necessary. Familiarity with AlumnIQ or other similar platforms a plus.

Possession of current and valid U.S. driver's license appropriate to the type of University vehicle and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Driving Record (MVR) as stipulated in the Vehicle Guidelines and Procedures Manual administered through the office of Environmental Health and Safety. Annual clearance of MVR check through the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.