Office of Human Resources and Risk Management

Advancement Writer

The advancement writer, reporting to the executive director of communications and working collaboratively with the assistant director of advancement communications, creates original content for a wide variety of alumni, parent and development communications in print and on the Web. The advancement writer conveys institutional messages to key constituencies and employs effective techniques in communicating to donors and potential donors the impact of their philanthropy.

The writer’s primary internal client is University Relations. The writer meets with the client to assess communications needs, generates copy, keeps clients updated and ensures delivery to client satisfaction.

Working with the assistant director of advancement communications and the internal client, the advancement writer helps to: develop personalized letters (follow-up letters, cultivation letters, solicitation letters, acknowledgment letters, etc.) and assemble material for proposals; write copy for invitations, direct mailings, ads, case statements, fact sheets, Web sites, brochures, talking points and other projects; develop articles for various university publications, including its magazine; edit and proofread client-supplied copy and internally produced publications; advance media relations goals as they relate to advancement communications

The advancement writer will report to the executive director of communications and work collaboratively with the vice president for university relations, the director of alumni relations, the director of parent relations, all development staff, all senior staff and all members of the Office of Communications. In addition, he/she will work with other stakeholders throughout the university who have an interest in cultivating relationships with alumni, parents and supporters.

This position requires a bachelor's degree in communications or related field and three years of experience in an academic, marketing or nonprofit environment. Other requirements include: strong creativity and writing skills; excellent interpersonal communication skills; ability to conduct the necessary interviews and research for advancement pieces; ability to write in a voice appropriate to the varied audiences addressed; knowledge of Associated Press style; demonstrated ability to set priorities and meet deadlines; demonstrated success working independently and with others on a team; proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience developing content and writing for the Web.

Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.

Susquehanna University is committed to creating a more diverse community. The university encourages candidates from historically underrepresented groups to apply.

Susquehanna University is an EO/AA employer.