Director of Advancement Communications
The Director of Advancement Communications leads a full range of editorial, communications and messaging efforts related to philanthropic and engagement initiatives at William & Mary, including annual giving solicitations and participation initiatives. Broad communications responsibilities include developing integrated communications plans with consistent and strategic messaging as well as writing and assigning stories for a variety of communications channels. Responsibilities related to solicitations, participation initiatives, and appeals include creating content and persuasive language for case statements, fundraising proposals, as well as talking points and other messaging. The director will also be responsible for the execution of short- and long-range strategic goals of the university, advancement, the Alumni Association, and University Marketing and Advancement Communications (UMAC).
The director supervises a team of three writers and reports directly to the Senior Director of Strategic Communications, Marketing and Initiatives on the UMAC team in the University Advancement office. In addition to the communications team, the UMAC creative team includes digital marketing, video & multimedia, graphic design, as well as events and stewardship.
The position requires demonstrated knowledge of the complexities of higher education and the conventions of writing, editing and proofreading to include experience in message development, audience identification and communications planning and management. Progressive professional experience (typically seven or more years) in communications or a related field as well as a portfolio that demonstrates very strong creative proficiency is also required.
The College of William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The College is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
The College of William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
* Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, marketing, English or related field and substantive experience or specialized expertise directly related to the position.
* Experience in coordinating and developing communications across a variety of marketing channels
* Marketing or communication experience is required with a demonstrated knowledge of the complexities of higher education and the conventions of writing, editing and proofreading.
* Progressive professional experience (typically seven or more years) in communications or related field as well as a portfolio that demonstrates very strong creative proficiency.
* Experience with project development from inception to completion required; ability to lead project teams using an understanding of project scope, feasibility, budget, timelines, milestones and dependencies
* Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple assignments and manage a team that works in concert to produce high-quality publications and meet multiple deadlines.
* Demonstrated ability to strategically plan, manage, produce, and direct comprehensive communications strategies that incorporate print, Web, social media, video and collateral communications.
* Excellent writing and editing skills with experience producing feature stories, annual reports, news articles and press releases in a creative and accurate manner.
* Experience in message development, audience identification and communications planning and management.
* Strong command of AP style, proofreader's marks and editing conventions.
* Strong communication and organizational skills, with close attention to detail.
* Demonstrates excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communications skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse audience.
* Demonstrated ability to exercise good judgment and make sound decisions in support of the goals of University Advancement and William & Mary.
* Demonstrated ability to build consensus among colleagues in a highly-matrixed organization.
* Experience or ability to effectively manage and lead staff.