Executive Director, Advancement Communications
Confidential, Cambridge, MA, United States
Executive Director, Advancement Communications
About the Company
Top Ivy League institution committed to teaching & student excellence
Industry
Higher Education
Type
Educational Institution
Founded
1636
Employees
10,001+
Categories
- Education
- College
- Colleges & Universities
- Harvard University
- Innovation
- Learning
- Teaching
- Higher Education
- Universities
- Video
Specialties
- education
- research
- business
- medicine
- law
- engineering
- design
- science
- and arts and humanities
About the Role
The Company is seeking an Executive Director of Advancement Communications to provide strategic leadership in all communication activities that support fundraising, alumni engagement, and donor relations. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing integrated, multi-channel communication strategies that align with institutional goals and inspire philanthropic investment. This role involves serving as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, translating complex academic and institutional priorities into compelling narratives, and ensuring consistent messaging across various initiatives. The Executive Director will also lead a team of advancement communication professionals, manage budgets, and foster a high-performing, collaborative team culture. Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 8-10 years' of experience in communications, with at least five years in a managerial role, preferably within higher education or nonprofit advancement. The role requires exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, as well as a proven ability to manage teams and projects in a fast-paced environment. Experience in fundraising campaigns, donor relations, and a strong understanding of higher education culture and advancement best practices are essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strategic and systems thinking, collaborative leadership, and a commitment to donor-centric storytelling.
Hiring Manager Title
AVP for Advancement Communications, Events, and Donor Relations
Travel Percent
Less than 10%
Functions
- Marketing
- Education/Academic Administration