Development & Alumni Communications Coordinator

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Development and Alumni Communications Coordinator will help execute a comprehensive communications plan as part of the university’s goal to increase philanthropic support and alumni engagement. This individual applies experience and talent in interviewing, researching, writing, and editing to help the university achieve its goals. The individual also understands and can adapt to the distinct writing styles required for different communications channels (e.g., print magazine vs. web vs. email vs. social media), while also responding to the interests and preferences of the diverse audiences that development communications reach.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Analyze, manage, and author communications related to development opportunities, stewardship and engagement, and announcements of major commitments and/or initiatives. These will include copy for brochures, cases for support, websites, emails, social media, the university’s primary development magazine, Forward Thinking, and school publications. (55%)
2. In consultation with the executive director, actively engage development staff and academic leaders within the university to identify opportunities to promote philanthropic initiatives and academic endeavors likely to appeal as promising areas for philanthropy. Provide guidance and address internal and external inquiries. (15%)
3. Work in conjunction with the executive director to create and execute a university-wide communications and social media strategy targeted toward engaging alumni and friends. Regularly assess the effectiveness of communications through quantitative and qualitative measures, make recommendations for system improvements or enhancements, adjust as necessary to improve reach and engagement. (15%)
4. Assist development and alumni communications colleagues in editing and proofreading copy; assist in other university marketing and communications efforts, including building email communications, as needed. (15%)
5. Ensure that all development communications originating from university marketing and communications are measured toward outcomes, including new donor acquisition and donor retention and renewal. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Ensure that all communications meet Case Western Reserve University brand requirements, reflect Associated Press style and are compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act, to create clear and consistent alumni communications. (<1%)
2. Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

CONTACTS

• Department: Daily contact with university marketing and communications staff.
• University: Regular contact with the college and professional school development staff, directors of administrative departments, faculty, and staff as required to perform essential functions.
• External: Contact with donors, alumni, parents, friends of the university, and vendors as required.
• Students: Occasional contact for interviews.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

• No direct supervisory responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience: Two years of experience in interviewing, writing, and editing.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Excellent interviewing, writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
2. Ability to handle multiple assignments simultaneously.
3. Strong interpersonal skills.
4. Appreciation of the vital importance of effective communication to donor stewardship, and knowledge of how to ensure this communication furthers that goal as well as other university priorities.
5. Ability to communicate effectively one-on-one, within small groups, before audiences of varying sizes and with leading donors and prospects.
6. Ability to work independently.
7. Ability to meet consistent attendance.
8. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
9. Familiarity with Mac platform.
10. Proficiency in working with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Adobe Creative Cloud.
11. Familiarity with web content management systems or email marketing systems preferred.
12. Experience managing social media platforms.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• General office environment, including operation of a computer keyboard, mouse, and other devices and objects. Working on weekends may be very occasionally required to meet project deadlines. The work environment may be fast paced at times.

BENEFITS

• Over three weeks of paid vacation, paid sick days, 12 paid holidays (not including closing between 12/26 and 12/31), and summer hours
• Tuition Waiver – for you and your dependents
• Health, dental, and vision insurance plus a 401k match program

Case Western Reserve University