Executing Marketing and Communication Strategies to Influence Private Support of TU

Lead the development, implementation and management of annual strategic communications and marketing business plans. In collaboration with division leadership, drive a development marketing and communications strategy that tells the University’s story, including donor impact; supports division priorities; advances the campaign and creates a consistent experience for constituents.

In conjunction with University Marketing and Communications, drive development and implementation of the University Advancement content and channel strategy in support of campaign and ongoing communications. This includes oversight of websites, e-communications, social media, print collateral, video content, magazine content, event communications, and more. Ensure regular updates to existing content and the creation of new content that demonstrates the impact of giving to the University. Oversee the tracking and measurement of results; report to leadership. Serve as the senior writer and editor for University Advancement, using best practices in communications and storytelling to translate complex concepts into persuasive communications. Collaborate across the division to encourage consistency in messaging and adherence to best practices in communications.

Develop key communications vehicles for TU leadership so that fundraising and campaign priorities are consistently messaged and supported. This may include talking points, presentations, position papers and other vehicles, as needed. Provide consultation, messaging training, coaching and talking points to persons representing University Advancement.

Collaboration with and support from TU Marketing and Communications Department and Other Communications Partners

Act as liaison to University Marketing and Communications to execute key marketing communications efforts while ensuring consistency and alignment with TU brand, timely production of communication pieces and effective engagement internally and externally. Collaborate with the editor of Towson Magazine to create development-focused and campaign-related content. Utilize marketing and communications principles and practices in the creation of targeted content, timing of messages and delivery of print and digital collateral to ensure the University is staying top of mind with its various stakeholders and in keeping with higher-education best practices. Research best practices in development communications; propose new products and delivery methods; and identify compelling stories and visuals to support the strategic goals of development, fundraising and the University.

Creating Campaign Volunteer Communications and Messaging

Develop, implement and manage communications in support of campaign priorities in an effort to educate and engage volunteer leaders. Create volunteer training system to equip key leaders with the ability to articulate and convey campaign priorities and need for support. Cultivate and maintain positive, productive relationships with University Advancement and TU volunteers, lead staff members, and faculty in order to achieve goals.

Bachelor's Degree and at least four years of experience in marketing, communications, journalism, public relations, or related fields. Direct experience serving as the lead author of both marketing and communications plans including media, engagement strategies and results measurement. Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to quickly find the heart of a story and its supporting facts. Must be a creative thinker with the ability to use words and visuals to motivate and excite audiences. Experience developing and leading complex projects or programs including financial responsibility and measuring results of strategic plans and programs. High aptitude for collaboration and demonstrated success at working as part of a team. Superior communications and presentation skills; ability to persuasively convey the mission and value of TU to diverse groups including donors, volunteers, and the general public. Experience with computer software (Microsoft Office Suite preferred), a CRM database and internet research. Ability and willingness to travel if necessary. Experience developing, directing and managing multiple projects.

Preferred:

•Trends in philanthropy and constituent engagement especially within a higher education organization.
•Experience cultivating and managing client relationships.
•Experience working with a multi-cultural constituency.
•Familiarity with current communications technologies and best practices.
•Experience and/or understanding of communications best practices at a University.
•Experience working within fundraising campaigns.

A Criminal Background Investigation is required for the hired candidate and the results may impact employment.