The University of Virginia University Annual Giving team seeks an Assistant Director, Direct Marketing. The incumbent will serve as a project manager tasked with increasing philanthropic support to the University of Virginia and partners through print, digital, text, and newly emerging technologies. The ideal candidate is organized, process-driven, has strong written and verbal communication skills, and thrives in a collaborative environment.

The University Annual Giving team plays an integral and strategic role in University Advancement. This team works cross-functionally, producing donor-centric direct marketing strategies and creative output leading to growth in philanthropic support to the University.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a liaison to partners (schools and programs) across Grounds.
• For these partners, develop a production timeline of annual giving projects with tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities.
• Build and schedule emails in Salesforce Marketing Cloud.
• Review and maintain GiveCampus giving forms and campaigns.
• Compile and distribute print communications in conjunction with external vendors.
• Coordinate production with internal partners including writers, graphic designers, and a data team to ensure on-time delivery of appeals and stewardship.
• Manage vendor relationships.
• Report results of solicitations to leadership and partners in pre-determined timeframes.
• Collaborate with team members to review and analyze project results and make recommendations for strategy enhancements.
• Provide exceptional customer service to constituents and partners.
• Assist in developing and implementing A/B testing strategies to increase dollars and donors.
• Coordinate with team members to provide appropriate audience segmentation and solicitation performance updates on a mutually agreed upon schedule, based on milestones and partner needs.
• Collaborate with team members and partners on content and format that incorporates annual giving best practices.
• Participate in Office of Engagement and Advancement Community meetings, events, and programs.
• Attend training opportunities to further knowledge of Annual Giving best practices.
• In addition to the above responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

Required Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field with a minimum of one year of experience in one or more of the following: fundraising, alumni relations, non-profit, project management, communications, or sales/marketing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, an understanding of marketing principles, and highly effective project management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and meet complex deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with marketing tools such as Salesforce Marketing Cloud or GiveCampus.
• Strong proficiency working with personal computers and related hardware/software is preferred.
• Knowledge of marketing and communication best practices.
• Social media experience.
• Relationship management experience.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Understand the principles of philanthropy, higher education, and relationship management.