Senior Communications & Stewardship Writer Penn Medicine Development & Alumni Relations
About The Position
The Senior Communications & Stewardship Writer develops important solicitation, cultivation, and stewardship communications projects, supporting in particular the Neuro and Biomedical Research Development teams within Penn Medicine Development & Alumni Relations. Reporting to the Senior Director of Development & Research Communications, the writer serves as a leading member of the creative team and produces communications that reflect the caliber of the institution while keeping the donor perspective at the center. The role requires writing about basic science research and biomedical sciences and integrating technical information about Penn Medicine’s clinical, research, and educational priorities with the human realities of serious illness, care, and the future of medicine. The writer also edits colleagues’ work and provides thoughtful, constructive feedback. The position uses design software such as InDesign to present written material and collaborates with the broader PMDAR team, frontline gift officers, and the Health System design team to develop communications collateral tailored to project objectives.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and 3 to 5 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Portfolio demonstrating persuasive writing ability, especially conveying scientific concepts to a lay audience.
- Strong writing skills, including the ability to write persuasively and translate complex scientific and medical information for diverse audiences.
- Strong command of English-language mechanics and ability to review and edit communications for clarity, accuracy, consistency, grammar, style, tone, and adherence to style guidelines.
- Familiarity with creative processes, techniques, and tools.
- Strong ownership of work quality and timeliness, with attention to detail in copy and graphic design.
- Ability to manage a diverse array of projects and proactively balance workload.
- Ability to work effectively and efficiently in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
- Ability to anticipate, plan for, and creatively solve problems.
- Collaborative interpersonal skills, optimism, energy, and composure; ability to build partnerships with multiple stakeholders.
- Ability to minimize institutional risk and maintain confidentiality.
- Clear and timely communication with stakeholders using methods suited to the audience.
- Initiative, intellectual curiosity, willingness to learn, and ability to build new skills as needed.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
- Proficiency with research tools such as Google Scholar and library catalogs.
- Intermediate skills with desktop design software and creative tools such as InDesign.
- Intermediate skills with databases, project management, and contact management systems.
Nice To Haves
- Experience as a professional writer in fundraising, marketing, or a related area.
- At least 2 years of direct experience in higher education or health care.
- Experience using social media and online communications platforms.
Responsibilities
- Write proposals, stewardship reports, handouts, and brochures.
- Edit work from fellow writers and colleagues and provide constructive feedback consistent with PMDAR standards.
- Write high-level leadership communications, including letters, speeches, and talking points.
- Write and identify visuals for articles, newsletters, feature publications, and social media content.
- Design written projects using templates and creative tools such as InDesign.
- Collaborate with the Health System design team on customized projects, including advertisements, posters, proposals, and case statements.
- Work with the broader PMDAR team, including frontline gift officers, to deliver communications collateral suited to project objectives.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
- Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses.
- Tuition assistance for employees, spouses, and dependent children at Penn; dependent children may also receive assistance at other institutions.
- Basic, matching, and supplemental retirement plans, with investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.
- Substantial time away from work during the year.
- Long-term care insurance for eligible faculty, staff, and family members.
- Wellness and work-life programs and resources.
- Professional and personal development resources.
- Access to University resources, libraries, athletic facilities, cultural activities, and recreational activities.
- Discounts and special services, including discounts for arts, entertainment, transportation, and other goods and services.
- Flexible work options and hours.
- Forgivable home ownership loan for eligible employees buying a home or residing in West Philadelphia.
- Adoption assistance reimbursement for qualified expenses.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
