Senior Advancement Writer - University Advancement

Scheduled Hours

37.5

Position Summary

The Senior Advancement Writer will report to the Senior Director of Advancement Communications. The position is responsible for researching, writing, and producing highly personalized communications pieces, including major gift proposals, often of seven figures or more. The incumbent also will produce collateral such as brochures, one-sheets, and solicitation letters and emails and will write editorial content for university publications, sharing philanthropic stories and profiles of our alumni, donors, and friends, as well as faculty and students. Approximately 50% of the position will be dedicated to writing support for University Advancement's Medical Advancement team, which raises funds for Washington University School of Medicine and the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center. The senior advancement writer will be the primary Advancement Communications liaison to Medical Advancement, serve as an active member of the Advancement Communications team and the advancement writer cohort, and contribute to and advance overall communications strategies.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan, write, edit, and proofread proposals for use by UA and university leaders to solicit gifts of seven figures or more. Prepare solicitation materials, such as appeal letters and emails, proposal templates, and case statements for targeted fundraising initiatives. Offer input on and implement strategies for major gift asks and annual giving communications.

• Produce stories for university publications, including Washington magazine, The Spirit of Washington University, and Outlook magazine, and university websites in consultation with the publicity and promotions team in Advancement Communications.

• Plan, write, edit, and proofread high-end materials including brochures, highly personalized letters, stewardship reports, and other print and digital communications.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree.

• 10-12 years of experience as a development writer and editor.

• Previous work experience in higher education.

• Previous work experience with nonprofit fundraising, with a basic understanding of fundraising techniques and strategies.

• Knowledge of current best practices in donor communications and stewardship.

• Expertise in proposal writing and strategic communications.

• Demonstrated creativity in writing and communications strategy.

• Experience with writing on medical/science subjects.

• Understanding of Washington University history and culture.

• Exceptional writing and editing skills with demonstrated ability to write clear and persuasive communications.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks and manage complex, often competing priorities.

• Respect for confidentiality and a strong sense of professional ethics.

• High degree of diplomacy, discretion, and tact.

• Demonstrated accuracy and commitment to detail.

• Proficient with Microsoft Word and other standard office programs.

• Proficient with Adobe InDesign.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with strong English writing capabilities.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience with strategic communications, donor communications, or related areas, preferably in higher education or other large, complex organization.

Grade

G14

Salary Range

$73,700.00 - $125,900.00 / Annually

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We've got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment - fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.