Development Communications Manager

At Braille Institute, we’re not just a team of diverse thinkers and doers; we’re relentless boundary-pushers dedicated to redefining what’s possible. For over a century, we have empowered individuals with vision loss to navigate life confidently, regardless of low or no vision.

Here at Braille, your work has the power to transform the lives of students of all ages through our comprehensive services, dynamic classes, and life-changing programs. We’re about “No Boundaries In Sight”: Imagine what we can achieve together! When you join Braille Institute, you’ll discover a world where possibilities know no bounds. Braille Institute is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity.

About the role:

Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications and working in close partnership with the Vice President of Development, the Development Communications Manager will play a critical role in the design and implementation of all strategic fundraising communications for Braille Institute.

The Manager is responsible for creating and executing exceptional marketing and communications efforts that advance the organization’s annual fundraising campaigns and goals. They will create communication strategies for key stakeholders that deliver consistent, clear, and compelling messaging about the value of our services and the impact of giving to the organization.

The Manager will work closely with the Development department, Programs team, and Gift Officers to craft effective donor-facing messages and engaging stories. Materials may include but are not limited to, annual reports, impact reports, videos, physical and electronic newsletters, fact sheets, and case statements. The Manager may direct external partners and agencies with the development of print and digital creative assets pertaining to fundraising campaigns and initiatives. They will collaborate with members across the Development department to create appropriate and strategic outreach and recognition to key donor groups with the end goal of strengthening relationships, aiding the donor journey with resources and recognition, and generating donations. Additionally, the Manager will explore communication with other constituent groups such as volunteers, students, patrons, staff, and others who may have a propensity to give. Duties include but are not limited to: messaging strategy, campaign planning, content creation and distribution, and analysis of results.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of high-level donor communications for major and mid-level donors and corporations, including cases for support, capital campaigns, donor pitches, event materials, and email campaigns.
• Develop and plan stewardship campaigns and messaging for print and digital fundraising content for mid-level donors ($1,000-$9,999) and major donors ($10,000+).
• Collaborate with the planned giving team to develop materials that assist gift officers, as well as broaden awareness of planned giving with donors.
• Provide analytics assessment for mid and major-level donors and planned giving prospects, including audience segmentation, engagement metrics, and tracking revenue for all materials. Ability to identify donor trends, and areas of growth, and upgrade and plan continual iteration for the highest impact.
• Create, implement, and optimize marketing and communication efforts to support fundraising goals.
• Provide high-level writing and lead content creation to deliver compelling and visually impactful storytelling.
• Manage creative agency relationships and freelancers, including project management of key deliverables, and managing budget and expenses.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent writing and editing skills with the ability to translate complex concepts into succinct, clear, accessible language for multiple audiences; exceptional storytelling to create compelling and memorable stories that motivate audience support.
• Ability to establish clear goals and objectives via creative briefs and strategic documents to manage outside content developers – graphic & web designers, photographers, and videographers.
• Strong project management skills with attention to detail and demonstrated ability to set priorities and complete tasks on schedule.
• Skilled at managing all phases of the creative development process, from kick-off, research, planning, and final execution.
• Team player with the ability to work with cross-functional, virtual, and diverse teams to develop plans and drive results.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the confidence to interact effectively with all levels of management, staff, and external partners.

Experience:

• At least 5 years of related work experience in philanthropy/fundraising marketing and communications.
• Experience developing multi-year and single-year fundraising/campaign communication plans and strategies.

Knowledge and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in marketing or communications is required.
• Working knowledge of Salesforce, Mailchimp/Constant Contact and other marketing & communications tools.
• Light design/editing experience in Adobe Creative or Canva.
• Strong understanding of philanthropic marketing, stewardship, and communications.

Braille Institute of America