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Executive Director of Advancement Communications

On-site Full-time

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Experience Level

Senior Level Manager

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree required. A minimum of 8–10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, with at least five years in a managerial role, preferably in higher education or nonprofit advancement. Demonstrated success in leading complex communications initiatives linked to fundraising or campaigns. Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling capabilities tailored for donor and executive audiences. Proven ability to manage teams, projects, and competing priorities in a demanding environment. Experience supporting comprehensive fundraising campaigns. Familiarity with donor relations, stewardship, and development operations. Comprehensive knowledge of higher education culture and advancement best practices.

About the job

The Executive Director of Advancement Communications plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic communications framework that supports Harvard's fundraising, alumni engagement, and donor relations initiatives. This leadership position is responsible for the formulation and implementation of cohesive, multi-channel communication strategies that align with institutional goals, enhance alumni and volunteer relationships, and motivate philanthropic contributions.

Reporting directly to the AVP for Advancement Communications, Events, and Donor Relations, the Executive Director collaborates with development officers, alumni relations, and academic leaders, ensuring that messaging is compelling and consistent across various campaigns, stewardship efforts, and engagement activities.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

  • Design and execute a comprehensive advancement communications strategy that aligns with institutional objectives and fundraising focuses.
  • Act as a trusted communications advisor to senior leadership within the institution.
  • Transform complex academic and institutional priorities into clear, persuasive narratives tailored for diverse donor and alumni audiences.
  • Work alongside development officers to tailor communications for high-potential prospects and donors.

Team & Operations Management

  • Lead, coach, and manage a diverse team of advancement communications professionals, including writers, editors, digital specialists, project managers, and designers.
  • Develop workflows, editorial standards, and performance metrics, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs.
  • Oversee budget management, vendor relationships, and the engagement of external consultants as necessary.
  • Facilitate team member growth through constructive feedback and dedicated mentorship.
  • Encourage a collaborative team culture focused on excellence and professional development.
  • Adapt management strategies to navigate changes and growth within the integrated unit.

Fundraising and Engagement Communications

  • Direct the messaging and content strategy for major gift initiatives, comprehensive marketing campaigns, and annual giving efforts.
  • Supervise the creation of donor proposals, case statements, and other initiative-specific materials.

Content & Channel Oversight

  • Manage engagement-related content across print, digital, email, social media, and web platforms, ensuring brand consistency and message alignment.

About Harvard University

Joining Harvard University means becoming part of a vibrant community dedicated to advancing a world-changing mission. Here, you will foster innovation, collaboration, and skill-building within an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Why join Harvard University Central Administration?The Central Administration (CADM) at Harvard University is a dynamic organization of over 5,000 employees committed to supporting the university's excellence by addressing the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through collaborative partnerships, CADM delivers high-quality and efficient services to help achieve the university’s goals. Alumni Affairs and Development (AA&D) is a dedicated team that plays a crucial role in supporting Harvard’s advancement efforts through frontline fundraising, alumni and volunteer engagement, technology, prospect management, and research.

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