Posted on August 3, 2012

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Senior Development Writer

Job Summary:

• Create and produce integrated, constituent-oriented content to foster a culture of philanthropy through communications that build awareness of and strengthen engagement with the University. Research and write materials in support of a major comprehensive campaign, from highly individualized proposals to mass-market print and e-communications. Plan, write, and edit donor recognition and development communication pieces for print and online. Collaborate with Communications teams as well as fundraising officers, alumni relations staff, and communications colleagues across the University to plan and implement development communications that uphold ARD messaging, tone, style, and brand guidelines;
• Work with editors, writing team, academic leaders, and development officers to create materials in support of a major comprehensive campaign. Research complex institutional subject matter and academic priorities. Describe priorities in clear, persuasive language, and present concise rationales for philanthropy. Maintain a firm grasp of campaign goals and objectives, while understanding the broader institutional communications strategy. Maintain a clear understanding of all development and fundraising goals, strategies, and messages and articulate this information to a lay audience;
• Produce key alumni and donor engagement communications. Assist in producing assigned alumni and donor publications, including planning issues and assigning, editing and/or writing stories. Research and write copy for annual fund solicitations, donor-centric websites, and other mass-market fundraising efforts. Work collaboratively with colleagues University-wide as well as donors, faculty, students, volunteers, and outside vendors;
• Research and write compelling proposals in support of the University's strategic initiatives that inspire philanthropy at the highest level. Conduct research and independently incorporate changes, comments, and critiques from multiple reviewers using excellent writing, and editing skills; exercise sound judgment with regard to strategy, appropriate points of emphasis, and persuasive impact. Describe complex academic subject matter in clear, persuasive language and present concise rationales for philanthropy. Manage multiple projects simultaneously and keep a comprehensive plan of all work in progress. Analyze requests for service, make realistic deadlines for project completion, and complete work on schedule. Maintain a firm grasp of strategic initiative goals and objectives and the broader University campaign planning strategy. Ensure production of timely and accurate materials according to established guidelines.

Education: Bachelor's degree or higher required.

Experience:

Minimum three years nonprofit management, development, alumni relations, marketing, public relations or similar work experience required. Minimum three years of relevant professional work experience in writing and editing required.

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer.

To Apply: To be considered, all job seekers must meet the requirements and apply online. For more information and to apply: