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
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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.