Annual Giving Communications Manager

Posted on 10/25/2022

University of California, Irvine

Irvine, CA

In 1965, the University of California, Irvine was founded with a mission to catalyze the community and enhance lives through rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and dedicated public service. A top public university, UCI has become internationally recognized for improving lives through research and discovery, fostering excellence in scholarship and teaching, and engaging and enriching the community. Today, UCI continues to inspire change and pioneer new ideas with the support of its generous partners, alumni and friends. Through the combined efforts of the University Advancement & Alumni Relations team, the University is able to share its amazing achievements, build lasting relationships and generate support for important campus programs and initiatives. University Advancement seeks to strengthen contributions in research, education, and service; accelerate the university’s place among globally preeminent research universities; and bring together passions, skills, and creativity to further improve people’s lives.

The Annual Giving Communications Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of annual giving communications activities and developing an integrative marketing and communications strategy for the fundraising and communications efforts of the Annual Giving programs which includes designing, writing, editing and proofreading support for the Annual Giving department. In addition to supporting the Annual Giving team, the incumbent also works with the Senior Director, Advancement Communications, to ensure that the communications strategy for the Annual Giving department is in line with the strategy for University Advancement. This position involves all aspects of marketing, including planning, advertising, promotion, public relations, program and product development, distribution, and research to meet the department’s goals and objectives. Manages all communications activities by directly providing writing, publication and graphic design, photography, video conceptualization and production, social media development and deployment, and other media. Using business intelligence tools and reporting, they will recommend targeted approaches for various audiences in solicitation and stewardship activities as well as other communications such as newsletters and social media initiatives, website updates, as needed; and work with donors, students, alumni and parents to create content. Assists in developing budgets and goals, and achieving goals within budgetary parameters.

Compensation Range: $75,000 – $80,000

Required:

  • At least four to five years of related experience in marketing, writing and/or annual giving fundraising experience or related experience, with proven organizational skills, preferably in an institution of higher education or other non-profit organization.
  • Bachelor’s degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training. Undergraduate or graduate degree in journalism, public relations, marketing, communications or related subject preferred.
  • Considerable experience in persuasive writing, and editing solicitation letters, articles, business letters, scripts and other communication materials.
  • Demonstrated ability to speak and write persuasively about the value of philanthropy to higher education with a keen eye for detail and superior proofreading skills.
  • Writing and graphic design skills to include campaign materials, solicitation letters, correspondence, and response devices. Clear grasp of graphic design tools to successfully create images, artwork, and forms.
  • Knowledge and skills to advise and consult with management to ensure delivery of the desired message to the target and / or broad general audiences.
  • Experience in niche marketing, branding and segmentation strategies.
  • Knowledge of marketing/solicitation strategies for a major research institution.
  • Knowledge and understanding of technical applications to effectively direct technical staff, or personally perform technical work, including design concepts, various media, and applications.
  • Outstanding writing and editing skills. Must possess a proficiency in communicating effectively with diverse audiences. Writing must be clear and concise with correct spelling and grammar.
  • Solid written, verbal, interpersonal communications, active listening and political acumen skills.
  • Demonstrated skill in project management at a senior level.
  • Demonstrated time management, organizational and planning skills.
  • Demonstrated project management skills to manage multiple and complex projects.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently.
  • Ability to use PowerPoint with advanced knowledge of digital design techniques. Adobe Suite experience desired.
  • Knowledge of all aspects of communications, including strategic planning for various media venues, technical aspects and requirements of various venues, and most appropriate and effective applications.
  • Solid skills to create, develop, and implement comprehensive long and short term strategic communications plans.

Preferred:

  • Previous work with design programs, such as Adobe Creative Suite is preferred. Previous experience using Salesforce Marketing Cloud or similar.
  • Previous work with a crowdfunding platform, such as ScaleFunder.
  • Social media marketing experience, including familiarity with Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Flickr, YouTube and other emerging social media.
  • Experience managing vendor relationships and working with variable content marketing.
  • Experience using Salesforce or other similar fundraising database programs.
  • Knowledge of the organization, its achievements, mission, vision, goals, policies, practices, infrastructure, and a strong knowledge of current affairs, and issues in higher education, philanthropy and/or healthcare.
  • Knowledge of location protocols and channels for communication internally and externally.
  • Familiarity with the operations of a university annual giving function

Special Conditions Preferred:

Must possess a valid California driver’s licenses and participate in the DMV Pull Notice Program. May be required to work occasional evenings and weekends. May be required to drive on occasion in order to perform the routine or essential job responsibilities for the position.

To apply for this job please visit www.click2apply.net.