| Position Summary: The Senior Director of Advancement Communication (SDAC) is charged with the planning, implementation, and analysis of the overall Advancement communication plan intended to promote philanthropic giving and effectively engage key constituent groups including students, parents, alumni, donors, faculty, and staff. The SDAC serves under the direction of the Executive Director of Advancement Services and as a member of the Division of Advancement Leadership Team. The SDAC will develop a highly productive and collaborative relationship with members of the Vice Chancellor’s leadership team and the Offices of Communication and Public Relations and Marketing to ensure consistent messaging, branding and to capitalize on integrated communication efforts. The position is responsible for using various media such as print, email, web, online community and social media to deliver messages that meaningfully engage and inspire giving among Western Carolina University's diverse constituencies; and is also accountable for tracking reports (online, print, social media, etc.) and market research, including development of surveys and reporting feedback. The SDAC will be responsible for supervising the Director of Donor Relations. Minimum Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, demonstrated team-building management skills, experience working with diverse constituencies, attention to organizational planning and detail and possess strong and assertive leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Bachelor's degree from accredited college or university.
Minimum of five years of progressive experience in communication, strategy, proposal and publication development.
Demonstrated ability to define marketing and strategic communication goals and objectives, identify target audiences, and develop and implement strategic communication plans to accomplish goals.
Ability to work independently as well as within a team environment to achieve institutional goals.
Strong analytical and independent decision making capability.
Strong journalistic or public relations writing and editing experience.
Demonstrated understanding of best practices and experience in social media.
Excellent interpersonal, problem-solving and communication skills and well-developed organizational skills to facilitate work with a wide range of individuals and groups from diverse public.
Ability to evaluate performance and develop alternative methods to improve existing processes and meet established objectives.
Professional level skills and experience in graphic design and knowledge of desktop publishing.
Demonstrated ability to manage short and long-term project timelines.
Ability to work in an environment that encourages consensus building, teamwork, collegial decision-making, and accountability for results is essential.
Demonstrated ability to work with discretion and manage confidential information
Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends to support programming and events.Preferred Qualifications: Familiarity with principles and practices of annual, major and planned giving highly desirable.
Gift proposal or other fundraising writing experience.
Experience working in a relational database such as Raiser's Edge or Banner Advancement.
Experience working in a higher education capital campaign.
Experience working with internal C-level leadership.
Experience working with volunteers
Experience managing high level eventsSpecial Instructions to Applicants: Review of applicants will begin April 23, 2018 and will continue until the position is filled. To be considered, you must apply online. Attach a cover letter, current resume, and a list of professional references (include complete contact information). For questions and additional information, please contact Elizabeth Honbarger at 828-227-7124. |
