Senior Development Writer & Editor Job at Inside Higher Ed in Gainesville

Overview

Senior Development Writer & Editor – Inside Higher Ed

Job No: 536917 • Work Type: Full Time • Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL) • Department: 50010000 - AD-VP ADVANCEMENT

Classification Title: Writer

Classification Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or an associate's degree and two years of appropriate experience.

Responsibilities

Development Communications

• In consultation with the Senior Director, produce development-related content that advances broad Advancement development goals, strategic priorities and donor cultivation and stewardship efforts.


• Serve primarily as a writer and editor, create inspiring messaging and stories for alumni- and development-related print and digital communications and marketing, including concept papers, proposals, stewardship reports, feature stories, news releases, brochures, booklets, magazine copy, web copy, social media, multimedia, event scripts and other materials.


• Interact closely with development staff to obtain and organize information and materials to best write, edit, research and design quality reports tailored to each donor or donor audiences.


• Support basic design and digital production efforts as needed.

Strategic Communications

• Work collaboratively with SCME leadership and team to drive the development and strategic positioning of UF Advancement brand and storytelling across all university development and alumni relations efforts.


• Consult with administrators, development officers and communicators, as well as the Advancement Communications leadership team, to ensure strong development communications strategies and materials.


• Serve as a strategic communications liaison between Advancement departments and various colleges and units, as assigned, and the SCME team.

Project Management

• Develop strategic communications and marketing plans for internal service partners in alignment with the communications project intake system.


• Ensure that tasks and projects are completed at the highest quality and that deadlines and processes are met.


• Identify process obstacles, devise process solutions and maintain management system to maximize efficiency.


• Participate in regular status meetings to inform supervisor, team and stakeholders of project deliverables updates, and impending deadlines and milestones.


• Monitor and coordinate project planning. Develop and conceptualize short-term and long-term goals of each project using established attributes to achieve the vision and values and effectively communicate project expectations.


• Prioritize multiple assignments and plans and executes strategies to work independently and under limited timeframes to meet deadlines. Ensures project deliverables are met.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or an associate's degree and two years of appropriate experience.


• Valid driver's license required.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization such as journalism, public relations or communications.


• Knowledge of advancement philosophy and practices; higher education experience preferred.


• Writing experience, preferably as a university communicator or as a reporter or editor at a newspaper, magazine or broadcast media outlet.


• Demonstrated writing abilities for multiple styles and platforms.


• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to engage effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of individuals are essential.


• Ability to multi-task and problem-solve, using research and analytical skills to develop and implement creative solutions.


• Understanding of industry standards, trends, breakthroughs and best practices related to development or advancement communications.


• Skill requiring judgment to take initiative, accurately establish priorities, complete complex assignments in a timely manner, and adapt quickly to changing needs and in dealing with conflicting challenges.


• Experience working in a team atmosphere and ability to understand and translate institutional policies/objectives into persuasive communications preferred with the ability to work with other communication professionals across campus.


• Proven success in managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, adapting quickly to changing priorities, while maintaining great attention to detail and accuracy.


• Commitment to excellence and customer service.


• Ability to work independently under pressure with minimal supervision.


• A commitment to and support for workplace inclusion in all its forms; demonstrated success collaborating with stakeholders; strong project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; excellent organizational abilities; and the capacity to lead, influence, and inspire others are essential.


• Proficient in Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, as well as internet browsers and email platforms. Familiarity with donor databases, contact management systems, and tracking systems is also highly preferred.

Application process

Special Instructions To Applicants: In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume and three references.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Health Assessment Required: No

Applications Close: 16 September 2025

To apply, visit https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/536917

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. The University of Florida is a public institution and is subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.