Director of Advancement Communications

Professional Experience/ Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 years experience in advancement, fundraising, alumni relations, communications, project management, marketing, recruitment, public relations, or journalism.
• Excellent writing, editing, publication, and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Management experience preferred.
• Knowledge of digital communications best practices strongly preferred.
• Knowledge or experience in higher education advancement or alumni relations preferred.
• Experience with Drupal preferred but not required.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, communications, journalism, public relations, or related field required.

Accountabilities

The Advancement Communications Director is focused on the production of fundraising communication content across platforms — including print, digital, and web — serving as the primary liaison with advancement staff to identify communications needs, develop and implement an annual communications plan, and ensure achievement of goals and objectives for philanthropic support.

The Director is responsible for implementing advancement communications strategies in support of Colgate’s Third-Century Plan. The position manages the Advancement Communications Specialist — fairly and accurately assessing employee performance in accordance with university practices — and reports to the Associate Vice President, Communications, while working closely with members of the Colgate advancement team.

The Advancement Communications Director demonstrates expertise in research, interviewing, writing, and editing high-quality, error-free copy in line with Colgate’s editorial style and is able to curate and adapt content for designated communications channels. This position also assists with editorial suggestions for university publications based on Third-Century priorities and coordinates with the communication team for creative design and execution of materials.