Associate Director, Development Communications

Rice University•Houston, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director, Development Communications is a strategic writer and storyteller who helps shape Rice University’s fundraising voice and creates narratives that inspire generosity and strengthen relationships. Reporting to the Director, Development Communications, this role works with writers, designers, and fundraising communications professionals to develop persuasive fundraising content and support the university’s philanthropic priorities. The position combines research, writing, editing, creative strategy, and collaboration. The Associate Director develops donor-focused materials and executive-level communications, works with stakeholders to identify compelling stories, and helps ensure communications reflect Rice’s mission, values, style, and tone. This is a hybrid role combining in-office and remote work; work arrangements may change under Rice policy 440. The position is exempt from overtime under the FLSA. Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume, preferably as PDFs; the cover letter should include a link to an online portfolio.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in English, liberal arts, journalism, or a related field.
Three or more years of related professional writing experience.
Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to synthesize diverse input and data.
Advanced knowledge of multiple media formats.
Advanced knowledge of AP style.
Advanced Microsoft Office skills.

Nice To Haves

Five or more years of professional writing and editing experience.
Experience writing for development within higher education.
Experience working with clients and managing customer relationships, including faculty, deans, and fundraisers.
Experience working in a nonprofit fundraising campaign or initiative.

Responsibilities

Research and craft narratives that advance university fundraising priorities, translating complex information into case statements, proposals, and donor-focused content.
Write persuasive case prospectuses and proposals for major-gift and principal-gift solicitations, tailoring content to high-level donors.
Produce donor stories, magazine articles, web content, and marketing collateral that encourage engagement and generosity.
Edit and refine copy from other writers for clarity, accuracy, and consistency with Rice style and tone.
Write and edit executive-level messaging on behalf of university leadership, including donor acknowledgments.
Collaborate across teams to develop donor-centric communications that strengthen relationships and support results.
Lead creative strategy sessions for fundraising initiatives, including brainstorming concepts, pitching ideas, and aligning messaging with donor motivations.
Develop fundraising materials for schools, departments, and special initiatives.
Engage faculty, administrators, volunteers, donors, and other stakeholders to gather insights and stories for donor communications.
Balance drafting, editing, collaboration, meetings, and operational demands to advance strategic projects.
Perform other duties as assigned.