Principal Gifts Writer

University of Texas at Austin

5d•$75,000•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Texas at Austin is seeking a Principal Gifts Writer to produce gift proposals for principal, planned, and corporate giving prospects. This role operates within the University Development Office and supports the fundraising efforts of Texas Development, a large and dynamic community of fundraising professionals. The position is responsible for creating clear, compelling, and brand-compliant proposals for significant gifts, coordinating the review and approval process, and collaborating with senior fundraisers and subject-matter experts. The writer will also contribute to other communications projects and maintain knowledge of university priorities and stories.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and at least three years of professional experience in nonprofit or higher education advancement/development writing.
Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, organization and attention to detail.
Proven ability to write for a variety of audiences while adhering to style guides.
Ability to self-start, self-direct and exercise good judgment and discretion.
Ability to prioritize, manage and organize multiple projects amid shifting priorities and accelerated timelines.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
Must be eligible to work in the United States on a full-time basis for any employer without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

More than the required years of experience.
Experience writing proposals for major and principal gifts.
Knowledge of AP style.
Experience with project management, project management information systems and/or production workflows.
Knowledge of higher education fundraising and Texas’ philanthropic landscape.
Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications and ability to execute light production design.

Responsibilities

Coordinates, develops, writes and edits clear, compelling, persuasive and brand-compliant proposals for principal, planned and/or corporate gifts of $1M and above.
Oversees the review and approval process and delivers final products on established timelines.
Supports chief development officers and other senior fundraisers by developing concepts and content based on identified fundraising priorities.
Conducts independent research and partners with subject-matter experts to develop technical and programmatic content.
Develops and maintains current knowledge of University priorities, brand, style and stories.
Meets regularly with the assistant director for development and executive director for strategic priorities to determine, prioritize and execute major and principal fundraising projects.
Participates in fundraising and prospect meetings.
Supports other Texas Development communications projects and goals by providing general writing and editing support for impact reports, internal communications, letters, marketing collateral and other materials that support fundraising and stewardship.
Additional duties as assigned.