Senior Copywriter, University Communications

The Creative Department within the Office of Communications at the University of Virginia is looking for a Senior Copywriter who is passionate about concepting big ideas, crafting language, and strengthening the narrative, tone, and voice of the institution. As a Senior Copywriter, you will be responsible for capturing the story of UVA and translating it into clear and compelling copy that aligns with University priorities. You must be a self-starter, comfortable with developing concepts and copy on a range of projects for UVA as well as various partners within the University, including the Office of Undergraduate Admission, Athletics, the President’s Office and many others. You will write everything from video scripts to ad headlines to landing pages to letters on behalf of UVA leadership. You must possess the ability to work within an established brand, while also bringing new ideas and creative thinking to projects.

Projects include:

• Developing concepts and writing scripts for national TV advertising
• Collaborating with filmmakers on narratives and scripts for various videos
• Crafting web and print campaigns
• Creating a range of web and print materials for various partners within UVA
• Writing formal communications in the voice of various university leaders

Responsibilities:

• Develop and translate original concepts into clear, compelling, on-brand copy
• Be able to think big-picture, while also paying attention to the smallest of details
• Collaborate with designers, developers, filmmakers, and photographers
• Write in a range of styles and voices that meet the needs of various clients within UVA
• Proofread print and digital copy, ensuring the highest standards are met through project development
• Clearly and thoughtfully articulate the strategic thinking and rationale behind concepts and copy
• Take ownership of projects from concept through production

 To Succeed, You Must:

• Bring 7 + years of related experience or the equivalent of a strong portfolio, agency experience a plus
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of craft, style, and syntax
• Be able to develop and translate concepts into clear, compelling, in-brand copy for a variety of mediums in both digital and print
• Possess a rigorous work ethic and sharp attention to detail
• Be a self-motivated, creative problem-solver and multi-tasker
• Enjoy working closely and collaboratively with a Creative team
• Be comfortable with critiques and red-ink

 

University of Virginia/Office of University Communications/Creative Department

The Creative Department within the Office of University Communications at the University of Virginia works as a small creative agency within the University and consists of Art Directors, Designers, Writers, Photographers, and Filmmakers. Our work covers a variety of disciplines, including advertising, web, print, branding, environmental, editorial, social media, photography, and video concepting/creation. The Creative Department’s core mission is to strengthen UVA’s positive reputation and increase awareness of its many accomplishments. In addition to working on advertising, branding and design projects for the University as a whole, we collaborate on a wide range of projects with a variety of University partners, including the Office of Undergraduate Admission, Athletics, Licensing, and many others.

Samples of our work can be seen on University Communications website: https://communications.virginia.edu/portfolio

 

This position will remain open until filled. This is an Exempt level, benefited position. This position will not sponsor applicants for work visas. Anticipated Hiring Range: $70,000 to $80,000 / year commensurate with education and experience.  The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.  For questions about the position or the application process, please contact Daniel Strong, Senior Recruiter, at das6zb@virginia.edu.