Director of Communications, Schools and Units

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Position Summary

The Director of Development Communications contributes strategic counsel, project management expertise, and delivery of high-quality communication tools in support of major and principal giving priorities.

About the Work Unit

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the engagement, identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs. You can visit our website for more information: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance

• Develop and execute strategic communications plans for major and principal giving initiatives, serving as a strategic adviser to DAR senior leaders and development officers.

• Serve as the primary development communications lead for assigned schools, colleges, and initiatives, building comprehensive plans and coordinating team resources to meet objectives.

• Partner with Vanderbilt's Communications and Marketing (MarComm) team to ensure alignment and maximize impact.

• Create compelling materials to support major and principal giving efforts, including proposals, concept papers, talking points, one-pagers, and gift announcements.

• Identify and develop stories showcasing philanthropy's impact for publication across print, digital, website, and social media channels in collaboration with DAR and MarComm colleagues.

• Establish and maintain project management best practices for communications deliverables (one-pagers, brochures, digital assets) in partnership with project management leads.

• Build templates and toolkits to ensure efficiency, consistency, and quality across all development communications.

• Champion continuous improvement initiatives to maximize team effectiveness.

• Contribute to implementing and evaluating a comprehensive communications program supporting Vanderbilt's development priorities and division goals.

• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

Supervisory Relationships

This position is an individual contributor. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Executive Director of Development Communications.

Work Environment:

This is a hybrid role based in the Nashville, TN area. The expectation is for this position to be on campus one day per week or more depending on business needs.

Education and Certifications

• A bachelor's degree, or the equivalent, is necessary.

• Advanced degree is preferred.

Experience and Skills

• Five years of relevant experience in communications is required, preferably in higher education, or a demonstrated record of achievement in a field requiring similar skills.
• Highly motivated team player with strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to thrive in an intellectually rigorous and complex environment.
• Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills , with the ability to articulate the needs, interests, and accomplishments of Vanderbilt to various audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information is essential.
• Proficiency in office software tools and experience with project management tools is essential.
• Ability to work independently , assuming responsibility, prioritizing tasks, and carrying out duties with minimal supervision.
• Excellent proofreading skills with precise attention to detail.
• Experience in a university fundraising environment is highly desirable.