Vanderbilt University

Compensation

Full Description

Please excuse any formatting errors on this job description. This is a known systems issue we are working on fixing. The Associate Director of Development Communications is a key communications professional responsible for providing writing expertise. This position focuses on delivering high-quality communication tools and collateral in support of Vanderbilt’s major and principal giving priorities, related to growth initiatives at Vanderbilt. Visit our website for more information: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/chancellor/initiatives-and-outreach/growth/ The Associate Director will be responsible for developing and writing communications materials to support major and principal giving priorities, including custom donor proposals, slide decks, whitepapers, remarks, donor profiles and impact stories. The role requires collaboration across departments, creative problem-solving, and the ability to manage multiple urgent and high-priority projects effectively in a complex environment. About the Work Unit The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the engagement, identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs. You can visit our website for more information: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/ Key Functions and Expected Performance This position will focus on areas including the university’s expanded presence in New York City and West Palm Beach, the Institute of National Security, a new College of Connected Computing and Vandy United, the university’s historic investment in Athletics. Additional areas include Vanderbilt’s strategic priorities such as scholarship support through Opportunity Vanderbilt, the university’s commitment to constructive and civil discourse through Dialogue Vanderbilt, and Residential Colleges. As part of the Development and Alumni Relations communications team (DARComm), the Associate Director of Communications will have the following responsibilities: Manage urgent and top-priority initiatives, demonstrating the ability to pivot and re-prioritize projects as needed to address quickly-evolving organizational needs. Serve as a subject-matter expert on communications surrounding several key growth initiatives. Project manage the development and execution of print and digital collateral in close collaboration with colleagues across DAR and the university. Ensure project collateral is routed to stakeholders for thorough review and approval. Lead communications planning for key initiatives and support other DARComm team members with their projects. Cultivate strong partnerships with DAR colleagues, serving as a strategic communications advisor and project manager Build strong partnerships with Vanderbilt’s Communications and Marketing (MarComm) team. Identify and share story ideas that highlight the impact of philanthropy, working with colleagues across DAR and MarComm for coverage in print, digital publications, websites, and social channels. Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Relationships This position reports administratively and functionally to the Executive Director of Development Communications and does not have any direct reports. Work Environment: There is a preference for this position to be in the Nashville area. If so, it would be a hybrid work environment where the expectation is to be in the office one day per week or more depending on business needs. We are open to considering fully remote. If working remote, the expectation would be coming to campus approximately quarterly or more depending on business needs. Education and Certifications A Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is necessary. Advanced degree is preferred. Experience and Skills Four years of relevant experience is required, preferably in higher education, or a demonstrated record of achievement in a field requiring similar skills. Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information is essential. Highly motivated team player with strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to thrive in an intellectually rigorous and complex environment. Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills, with the ability to articulate the needs, interests, and accomplishments of Vanderbilt to diverse audiences. Proficiency in office software tools and experience with project management tools is essential. Ability to work independently, assuming responsibility, prioritizing tasks, and carrying out duties with minimal supervision. Excellent proofreading skills with precise attention to detail. Experience in a university fundraising environment is highly desirable.