Advancement Writer

Job Description

Advancement is seeking a passionate writer to inform and inspire Hokie alumni and donors. The advancement writer will be responsible for crafting marketing copy for a variety of channels including social media, emails, websites, and more.

This writer will have enthusiasm for creating engaging and persuasive copy that drives alumni and donors to give. The Advancement writer also isn’t afraid of distilling complex jargon and multiple priorities into a clear, concise narrative that tells the story of the importance of philanthropy.

This position is a fun, energetic, creative role where the ideal candidate will work across Advancement teams and be able to work quickly on tight deadlines. The writer will craft copy for annual giving appeals, donor relations stewardship pieces, planned giving marketing campaigns, and more.The writer must be able to efficiently process and respond to feedback with limited turn around times.

Reporting to the director of advancement communications, the ideal candidate will have the ability to problem-solve (both individually and as part of a project team), work independently with minimal guidance, and be a motivated self-starter comfortable with a fast-paced working environment.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, or a related field or equivalent training and/or work experience.

Prior experience writing professionally with evidence of progressive experience in the writing/communications field.

Excellent communication, writing, and editing skills with demonstrated knowledge of short form writing, including copywriting for a variety of mediums including but not limited to social media channels, emails, websites, infographics, and more.

Knowledge of AP Style and experience editing fundraising, marketing, and/or news copy.

Strong project management skills, including the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.

Ability to work effectively and proactively both independently and as part of a team.

Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, including the ability to work effectively with colleagues from all levels of an organization

Keen attention to detail.

Ability to work in a complex, research university setting and to communicate complex ideas in a clear and compelling manner.

All applicants must submit a portfolio of their work and complete a writing exercise

Preferred Qualifications

Higher education and/or fundraising writing experience

Familiarity with the Adobe Creative Suite and Adobe Experience Manager.

Graphic design skills and experience with brand management.

Experience with customer relationship management and project management systems.

Pay Band

N/A

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Commensurate with Experience

Review Date

12/8/22

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges , a school of medicine , a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School , and Honors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Advancement HR at advhr@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: November 9, 2022
Applications close: