Senior Advancement Principal Writer

The Senior Principal Advancement Writer is a full-time professional position that provides executive level writing and communications support for the Principal Gifts office and the Office of Advancement.  This position will work closely with all departments within the Office of Advancement and other departments throughout the university. Sound judgement and the ability to think and act proactively with little direct supervision is a must.

Principal Gifts Writing

Writes and edits proposals, concept notes, one pagers/datasheets, cultivation letters, cases for support, leadership talking points, white papers, gift agreements, and/or resolutions to support principal gifts fundraising efforts.

Principal Gifts Stewardship Writing 

Researches and writes stewardship and impact documents to support principal gifts fundraising efforts, including gift announcements and annual and specialized giving reports for endowed and current use funds. Writes acknowledgments for gifts made by the university’s highest priority prospects and donors and/or at the request of AVP, SVP, and SPAs. 

Writing and Editing Support 

Edits and proofreads projects within Advancement as directed.

Timeline Management 

Manages timeline of all writing projects and queue

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

1. Bachelor’s degree, and

2. 5+ years’ experience full-time professional writing in fundraising, a, university communications, journalism, or a related field, OR

3. Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered. 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITITIES/COMPETENCIES TYPICALLY NEEDED TO PERFORM THIS JOB SUCCESSFULLY: 

1. Demonstrated skills in writing, research, organization, and attention to detail (Writing samples will be requested and proofreading test is required).

2. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and complete work assignments without direct supervision.

3. Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to communicate and work cooperatively and effectively with high level faculty and staff, prospects, donors and volunteers.

4. Experience in word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database software proficiency.

5. Professional and positive attitude; ability to multi-task and maintain composure in a fast-paced and high-stakes environment.

6. Ability to participate on cross functional teams.

7. Ability to make informed decisions independently, demonstrate initiative and self-starting capacity and follow through on commitments to achieve them on time.

8. Experience working with sensitive information and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

1. Experience in a research university environment.

2. Familiarity with nonprofit fundraising, with commitment to the values of an institution of higher education.