The Executive Director of Advancement Communications provides strategic leadership for all communications supporting the institution鈥檚 fundraising, alumni engagement, and donor relations efforts. This role develops and executes integrated, multi-channel communication strategies that advance institutional priorities, strengthen alumni and volunteer relationships, and inspire philanthropic investment.
Reporting to the AVP for Advancement Communications, Events, and Donor Relations, the Executive Director partners closely with development officers, alumni relations, and academic leadership to ensure compelling, consistent messaging across campaigns, stewardship, and engagement initiatives.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
Develop and lead a comprehensive advancement communications strategy aligned with institutional goals and fundraising priorities.
Serve as a trusted communications advisor to senior leadership.
Translate complex academic and institutional priorities into clear, persuasive narratives for diverse donor and alumni audiences.
Partner with development officers to customize communications for high-level prospects and donors.
Team & Operations Management
Lead, mentor, and manage multiple teams of advancement communications professionals (writers, editors, digital specialists, project managers, designers).
Establish workflows, editorial standards, and performance metrics to ensure high-quality, timely deliverables.
Manage budgets, vendor relationships, and external consultants as needed.
Develop team members by providing clear and direct feedback motivated by a desire to help individuals grow while advancing organizational goals.
Foster a high-performing, collaborative team culture committed to the highest standards of performance and professional growth.
Invest in talent development and build camaraderie across functional areas.
Manage successfully across change and growth as the integrated unit evolves.
Fundraising and Engagement Communications
Lead messaging and content strategy for major and principal gift initiatives, comprehensive marketing campaigns, and annual giving.
Oversee creation of donor proposals, case statements, and initiative-specific supporting materials.
Content & Channel Oversight
Oversee engagement-related content across print, digital, email, social media, and web platforms.
Ensure brand alignment and message consistency in collaboration with central marketing and communications.
Use data and analytics to assess effectiveness and refine strategies.
Collaboration & Institutional Partnerships
Collaborate closely with alumni relations, central communications, academic units, and fundraising partners.
Support leadership communications related to advancement priorities, including speeches, remarks, and talking points.
Ensure communications reflect institutional values and donor-centric best practices.
Harvard University
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