Job details
Job type full-time
Full job description
Assistant director, development communications
To be considered for this role, please submit three writing samples with your cover letter and resumeFurther samples will be requested as needed.
Open to 100 percent remote work.
If you can tell a great story, weave in strategic messages, and make a compelling case for philanthropic support, then you could be the ideal candidate for the assistant director, development communications position!
The assistant director, development communications is responsible for writing and editing direct appeals, conveying the impact of giving, and creating marketing collateral that inspire all members of stanford’s donor communityIn addition, this position will help advance philanthropic needs arising from the university’s ideal initiative, a presidential initiative launched in 2020 to transform stanford into an institution that embraces diversity as the key to excellence and achievement.
This position reports to the director of development communications within stanford’s central office of development, and is a member of the communications, digital & donor relations team.
The assistant director, development communications serves as a core member of the team producing annual fund appeals and creating other marketing collateral for the stanford fund, the university’s annual fund for undergraduate education.
Other projects will include writing donor impact stories, drafting letters on behalf of senior leaders and volunteers, and creating a broad range of collateral such as white papers, case statements, website copy, and event collateral.
The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and a superb writer who is versatile in a range of writing styles and has experience writing for diverse audiences and ensuring the use of inclusive language that promotes equityExcellent interpersonal skills requiredExperience writing direct appeals and working with nonprofits strongly preferred.
Job purpose:
Writing and editing direct appeals, telling stories about the impact of giving, and creating digital and print collateral that inspire philanthropic support
Your responsibilities will include:
Work in regular collaboration with the stanford fund, direct marketing, the stanford parent and family engagement program, and other partners within the office of development to develop targeted communications strategies.
Research, write, and edit content, including donor stories and a high volume of direct appeals.
Understand and help analyze trends and best practices in direct appeal creation and distribution, making salient recommendations to internal partners to drive results.
Tailor written material for diverse audiences and a variety of channelsEdit content provided by other sources, and adapt and repurpose as needed.
Reflect the diversity of thoughts, experiences, and approaches of the stanford community in development communications, conveying the university’s aspirations as an inclusive, accessible, diverse, and equitable institution.
Incorporate feedback and manage reviews by various internal and external clients.
Manage production of own stories, publications, and communications projects, and adhere to deadlinesSet and track project schedules and budgets.
Work closely with in-house design and digital teams, e.g., organizing raw content and channeling reviewer feedbackMaintain records on internal spreadsheets and databases.
To be successful in this position you will bring:
Bachelor`s degree and five years of related experience, or a combination of education and relevant experience.
Proven success in creating direct appeals and writing for print and digital media, including both long- and short-form content.
An understanding of development communications, including direct marketing principles and practices.
A commitment to promoting and supporting an environment of diversity and inclusion.
Proven ability to present, write, edit, and organize thoughts in a clear, concise, and well-organized mannerStrong attention to detailFlawless copyediting and proofing.
Ability to change voice and writing style to fit a particular audience and purpose.
Firm understanding of web technologies and applications, including social networking, social media tools, and current communication trends.
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively with a diverse array of people, including senior leaders.
Proficiency with microsoft office suite.
Ability to manage and prioritize multiple deadlines; excellent time management skills.
Occasional work on evenings and weekends.
The office of development (ood) advances stanford’s mission by raising philanthropic support from alumni, parents, families, friends, and institutional fundersWorking in concert with volunteers and academic leaders, ood staff members strive to accelerate stanford’s purposeful impact in the worldStanford is committed to a donor-centric approach to developmentEvery member of the office of development staff plays a role in providing the university’s donors with the service and attention that ensures an exceptionally positive and fulfilling philanthropic experience.
Why stanford is for you:
Stanford university is one of the world’s premier academic and research institutions, devoting tremendous intellectual and physical resources toward the betterment of humanityAs a major silicon valley employer, stanford seeks people committed to excellence and to improving our worldIn turn, the university is committed to supporting its employees as they develop their careers and enrich their livesWe believe stanford’s future success will be shaped by the diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and inclusive culture of its community.
Imagine a world without search engines or social platformsConsider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnessesStanford university has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the worldSupporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staffWe seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacyOur culture and unique perks empower you with:
Freedom to growWe offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a courseJoin a tedtalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring cultureWe provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier youClimb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilitiesWe also provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and funStroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
Enviable resourcesEnjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilitiesSpecific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibilityEmployees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the university will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employerAll qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
