Assistant Director of Development Communications - Medical Philanthropy and Alumni Relations

$72,000 - $72,000/Yr

Virginia Commonwealth University - Richmond, VA

Full-time - Mid Level

Richmond, VA

10,001+ employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Assistant Director of Development Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) plays a crucial role in enhancing the university's fundraising capacity through effective communication strategies. This position involves leading fundraising communications efforts, developing compelling materials for various donor audiences, and collaborating with multiple teams to support VCU's mission-driven work in medical philanthropy and alumni relations. The role requires a blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and strong relationship-building skills to engage stakeholders and drive philanthropic support for VCU's medical initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead fundraising communications efforts for the Medical Philanthropy and Alumni Relations team.
• Develop and execute messaging and designs for direct response fundraising and donor relations channels.
• Create compelling materials for alumni, prospects, and donors.
• Maintain knowledge of news relevant to different donor audiences to inform communication strategies.
• Oversee graphic design and copy creation for mail and email solicitations and donor relations communications.
• Serve as primary copy editor and proofreader for annual giving content.
• Create organic and paid social media content to enhance direct response campaigns.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and cross-campus staff for content collaboration.
• Collaborate with various departments to expand the reach of MPAR content.
• Attend and provide coverage for special events as necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of four years of experience in public relations, fundraising, or journalism, preferably in higher education or nonprofit settings.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Extensive writing and editing experience with knowledge of AP Style.
• Demonstrated experience in persuasive writing and fundraising communications for various media.
• Knowledge of graphic design principles and experience with graphic design platforms.
• Ability to communicate ideas clearly and accurately.
• Strong relationship-building skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and results-driven.
• Self-starter with the ability to exercise independent judgment.
• Trustworthiness to handle sensitive issues and serve as a brand ambassador.
• Experience with content management systems and fostering a diverse environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced degree in communications, marketing, or related field.
• Experience with Canva for creating communication materials.
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, Google Workspace, and project management software.
• Ability to update web content in T4 CMS.
• Experience in digital marketing and writing fundraising communications in educational settings.
• Experience in a hospital or academic medical center.
• Understanding of philanthropy opportunities and creating a culture of philanthropy.
• Strategic thinking skills to adapt to changing communications landscapes.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits
• Paid annual and holiday leave
• Generous tuition benefit
• Retirement planning and savings options
• Tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs
• Employee discounts
• Well-being resources
• Opportunities for career development and advancement