Director of Philanthropy Communications

Company: Auburn University

Job Location: Auburn University, 36849-5207

Category: Development and Fundraising

Type: Full-Time

Requisition Number: S4793P

Home Org Name: Proposal Development & Communicatio

Division Name: Senior VP, Advancement

Job Class Code: OA57

Appointment Status: Full-time

Limited Term: No

Job Summary

Auburn Advancement is excited to begin the search for a Director of Philanthropy Communications. In this position, you will lead strategy and execution of donor-focused communications to advance the university's fundraising goals. Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Philanthropy, this role oversees messaging and publications, ensuring consistency across channels and units while guiding a team to deliver compelling, donor-centered content.

What You'll Do:

• Leads with Vision: Provides strategic direction for philanthropy communications, aligning messaging and campaigns with university priorities while guiding a team to deliver with clarity and purpose.
• Engage and Inspire: Crafts compelling donor-centered stories and materials that deepen connections, inspire giving, and strengthen stewardship across audiences and channels.
• Drive Impactful Fundraising and Champion Philanthropy: Elevates fundraising success through integrated campaign communications, consistent donor messaging, and advocacy that fosters a culture of generosity.
• Advance Strategic Initiatives: Leads communications that support major fundraising priorities and campaigns, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and driving visibility for key philanthropic initiatives.

Why You'll Love It Here:

• Impactful Work: Your efforts will directly contribute to the growth and success of Auburn University and its priorities.
• Collaborative Environment: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to making a difference.
• Purpose Driven Work: Align your passion and fulfillment to your work, where you're trusted to reach your full potential and achieve your pinnacle career experience.
• Culture by Design: Thrive in a culture that champions respect, accountability, and professional development.

Now is the perfect time to join Auburn Advancement, a dynamic team encompassing Operations and Strategy, Culture and Talent, Engagement, Philanthropy, and Communications. Under the visionary leadership of Senior Vice President Rob Wellbaum - a seasoned and respected advancement professional - our organization is set to revolutionize the future of Advancement.

Essential Functions

Purpose

• Directs philanthropy communications strategy to advance the university's fundraising goals and priorities.
• Ensures all messaging, campaigns, and materials align with the mission and inspire a culture of generosity.

Collaboration

• Partners with advancement units, communicators, and fundraisers to align donor messaging across the university.
• Provides strategic guidance and resources to colleagues while fostering teamwork and shared accountability.

Innovation

• Develops and leads integrated communication strategies across print, digital, and multimedia platforms.
• Identifies opportunities to elevate storytelling, donor engagement, and campaign visibility through fresh approaches.

Production

• Oversees the creation of donor proposals, impact reports, stewardship materials, and campaign collateral.
• Ensures consistent quality and brand alignment in all philanthropy communications across channels and units.
• Guides a team in delivering timely, persuasive content that strengthens donor relationships.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• 8 years of experience in communications or marketing services

Desired Qualifications

Experience working in higher education or an Advancement structure is desired.

Salary Range: $91,900 - $165,430

Job Category: Communications/Public Relations/Marketing

City position is located in: Auburn

State position is located: Alabama