Annual Giving Content Manager

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary range available for this position at the time of its posting. The salary range is between $56,395 and $71,340, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.

Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The annual giving content manager is responsible for creating compelling, persuasive content that drives annual giving contributions through a variety of channels. The incumbent will write for different audiences and platforms, while adjusting writing tone and style, to drive engagement and donations. An exceptional storytelling ability, with experience crafting narratives that elicit emotional responses and inspires action is imperative. Functioning as part of the central annual giving team, the incumbent will be expected to work collegially, and in partnership, with central and school- and college-based colleagues, including University Marketing and Communications peers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Write compelling, solicitation and stewardship pieces for audience segments that ensure success of the university¿s annual giving goals. Create persuasive content for a variety of distribution methods including print, digital, video, and crowdfunding. Partner with school-based annual giving personnel to develop content for their specific direct mail, digital and crowdfunding campaigns. (60%)
• Edit and proofread content to ensure accuracy and alignment with branding, mission and overall goals as well as university and school funding priorities. Review pieces to ensure they meet best practices for fundraising appeals, and communicate best practices to school-based colleagues. Collaborate with University Marketing and Communications to ensure content and visuals align with university brand and style, and are consistent with the larger development communications plan. Coordinate with school-based and college- based colleagues to design and implement a review and approval process for annual giving content. (20%)
• Review performance of solicitations and stewardship pieces along with the director of annual giving direct engagement programs to adjust and improve upon the strategy. (10%)
• Research channels and communication tools to ensure optimal delivery of messages to target audiences. Research tools and practices to stay informed of best practices. (10%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned. (<1%)

CONTACTS

Department: Frequent contact with other annual giving staff as required to perform essential functions.

University: Frequent contact with University Marketing and Communications staff, 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 and friends of the university, and vendors as required to perform essential functions.

Students: Contact with students as required to perform essential functions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct supervisory responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: 5 or more years of professional experience, 3 years in public relations, journalism, development or related field. Experience in non-profit organizations or higher education is preferred.

Education: Bachelor's degree required. Master¿s degree preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Exceptional writing and editing skills with an ability to communicate effectively across channels and to different audience segments.
• Must be able to work independently and as a member of the development team.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, effectively prioritize, meet deadlines and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills and proven ability to influence and tactfully manage relationships with diverse internal and external constituencies. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
• Must possess superior organizational skills.
• Knowledge of Associated Press style.
• Computer proficiency (including Microsoft Office) and the ability to learn new programs.Proficiency working in CRMs and data visualization platforms.
• Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
• Ability to meet consistent attendance.

WORKING CONDITIONS

General office working environment. Working on weekends may be required to meet project deadlines. The work environment may be fast-paced and high-stress at times.

Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.

Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the CWRU Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicants will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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