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The George Washington University · 12 hours ago

Associate Director, Strategic Donor Communications

Washington, DC

Full-time

Hybrid

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

$72K/yr - $99K/yr

2+ years exp

The George Washington University’s Division of University Advancement is seeking a strategic and experienced Associate Director, Strategic Donor Communications. This role is critical in designing and delivering meaningful, donor-centered communications that enhance donor engagement and build institutional trust.

Higher Education

No H1B

Responsibilities

Lead the creation of high-impact donor messaging and content creation across all giving levels, ensuring alignment, consistency, and donor-centric voice across every touchpoint

Oversee the acknowledgment process organization-wide, managing content, systems, and strategy to ensure timely, meaningful expressions of gratitude

Craft senior executive acknowledgments, event talking points, and other strategic communications that build trust, deepen relationships, and encourage donor loyalty

Design and manage a proactive donor relations and communications calendar in collaboration with marketing and communications, annual giving, planned giving, and principal giving leadership

Develop and execute relationship-building touchpoints, including seasonal messages and giving society welcome packages, that reinforce gratitude, strengthen institutional engagement, and align with the appropriate phase in the donor’s philanthropic journey

Lead strategy, content development, and project management for the annual Philanthropy Impact Report and other campaign-related stewardship reports as directed

Produce custom impact reports for principal donors and prospects in collaboration with prospect managers and the Donor Relations team’s stewardship reporting leadership

Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualification

Fundraising softwareDonor databasesMicrosoft Office SuiteData-informed messagingDonor journey mappingEngaging major donorsProject managementCustomer service orientationInterpersonal communicationConfidentiality handling

Required

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 2 years of relevant professional experience, or a Master's degree or higher in a relevant area of study. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position

Proficiency with fundraising software, donor databases, and Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel)

Exceptional writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills

Proven track record in writing and managing donor-centered communications across multiple channels and audiences

Strong customer service orientation and ability to work collaboratively across departments

Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-phase projects and successfully meet tight deadlines

High degree of discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential donor information

Experience in data-informed messaging, impact reporting, and donor journey mapping

Experience engaging with major and leadership-level donors