Sr. Director of University Advancement Communications

Job ID: 55878
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Regular/Temporary: Regular

Department

Alumni Affairs

Equal Employment Opportunity

An Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer.

FSU's Equal Opportunity Statement can be accessed at: https://hr.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu2186/files/PDF/Publications/diversity/EEO_Statement.pdf.

Responsibilities

The senior director of University Advancement Communications provides leadership, direction and support to the communications team and Vice President of University Advancement. They are responsible for executing the conception, writing, editing and proofing processes from start to finish and overseeing design of all proposals, campaigns and fundraising materials. This position directly influences the internal and external communications efforts by building, implementing and developing major proposals seeking funding for key academic programs and projects University-wide. This individual is expected to uphold and exemplify the operating practices and mission of the Florida State University Division of University Advancement (DUA).

Proposal Writing, Key Leadership Writing/Editing, Engagement Copywriting

-Assist the vice president of DUA in the conceptualization and development of collateral material for proposals, major campaigns, including case statements and fund-raising brochures, and coordinate the production of other campaign materials, both print and electronic.

-Write and edit materials for engagement campaigns across print and digital platforms.

- Research, conceptualize, write, edit, and proofread proposals designed for presentation to some of the University’s most major prospective donors and university’s strategic priorities.

-Develop and manage internal and external communication strategies that articulate key messages and consistently advance the Foundation’s mission and goals

-Assist the Annual Giving Department with solicitation copy

-Work with schools, colleges and units to develop collateral material – print and electronic – that supports their fundraising efforts

-Assist DUA, Donor Relations and Stewardship by creating appropriate communication pieces, proofing minutes and gift acknowledgement letters, and crafting talking points, presentations, letters and other materials, as needed.

- Prepare briefing materials for visits by university officials to prospective donors, as well as for on-campus visits.

Communication Development-Strategy, Research and Planning

- Interact with senior University officials, including within DUA and elsewhere, to define content of each proposal.  Conduct the research as needed.

-Knowledge of higher education trends, and fundraising best practices, to be able to provide effective, high impact fundraising content.

-Establish measures and implement metrics for monitoring accountability and effectiveness of communications efforts Communications Department

-Establish and monitor priorities of the department to focus on favorably positioning the Foundation with major constituencies. -Adjust priorities as necessary to remain flexible and responsive to any sudden opportunities or needs

-Assist DUA with its strategic, long-term planning efforts

-Effectively communicate organization’s mission and represent the organization’s culture to external stakeholders

-Protect confidential information

Management and Supervision

-Supervise and evaluate direct report personnel and coordinate training to enhance performance

-Cultivate long-term, collaborative relationships with key stakeholders

-In the absence of the executive director, serve as the primary contact and manager for DUA Communications, making key decisions, as appropriate

University knowledge

-Demonstrate commitment and understanding of the university’s mission and vision_

-Secure positive relationships with campus partners, peers and the university community.

Perform Other Related Duties as Required and Assigned

-Manage budget with support of the Executive Director.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and six years of experience; or a high school diploma/equivalent and experience equal to ten years. (Note: post-high school education can substitute for experience at the equivalent rate.)

Proficiency in the Microsoft Office products suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word), or equivalent software.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to develop and implement policies, procedures, goals, and objectives.

Excellent communication skills to include effective writing and interpersonal skills.

Ability to prioritize, organize and perform multiple work assignments simultaneously and accurately in a detail-oriented environment.

Ability to handle confidential, sensitive information with the highest degree of professionalism. 

A valid Florida or Georgia Driver's License, or the ability to obtain.

*Applicants must upload a cover letter & resume with their online application. *

Preferred

Proven ability of creating and executing strategic internal and external communications efforts, preferably as they relate to fundraising campaigns;

Experience in a university or non-profit fundraising environment preferred;

Preferred experience in fundraising writing experience.

University Information

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research, encourages creativity, and embraces diversity. At FSU, there’s the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news! Learn more about our university and campuses.

FSU Total Rewards

FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs.

Use our interactive tool to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.

How To Apply

If qualified and interested in a specific job opening as advertised, apply to Florida State University at https://jobs.fsu.edu. If you are a current FSU employee, apply via myFSU > Self Service.

Applicants are required to complete the online application with all applicable information. Applications must include all work history up to ten years, and education details even if attaching a resume.

*Applicants must upload a resume with their online application. *

Considerations

This is an A&P (Administrative and Professional) position.

This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.

Open until filled

This position is being advertised as open until filled.

The hiring committee will review applications as received.