Senior Manager, Philanthropy Brand & Visual Design

Auburn University•Auburn, AL

About The Position

Auburn Advancement is seeking a Senior Manager, Philanthropy Brand & Visual Design to lead the creative vision behind fundraising and donor engagement communications. This role is responsible for shaping the visual identity of philanthropy at Auburn, ensuring every piece of communication—from campaign materials to stewardship collateral—reflects a cohesive, compelling brand that inspires support for the university's mission. As a collaborative creative leader, you'll partner with Advancement leadership, communicators, writers, and development officers to develop strategic visual solutions that elevate fundraising initiatives and strengthen donor relationships. You'll oversee the creative process from concept to execution while mentoring a talented design team and championing brand excellence across print, digital, and multimedia channels.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree In Communications, Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations or related fields
5 years of experience in communications and marketing services which includes all of the following: project management, market research, content strategy, content development, writing, and media buying.

Nice To Haves

Graphic Design
Philanthropy-focused communications
Brand management
Project management

Responsibilities

Manages branding and visual identity for philanthropy communications, maintaining the design standards and creative direction for fundraising materials produced for university and Advancement leadership, departments, and campus fundraising units across print, digital, and multimedia formats.
Supervises and manages the creative process and design team, directing design work and ensuring consistency and quality across projects.
Produces high‑quality design work, including concept development and creation of visual materials for fundraising, donor engagement, stewardship, and advancement communications.
Develops and manages budgets for brand and visual design projects and initiatives.
Collaborates with communications and fundraising leaders, partnering with writers, strategists, project managers, and development officers to ensure visual design supports messaging, donor needs, and campaign priorities.
Oversees brand stewardship and visual design strategy, guiding both planning and execution of brand and creative initiatives.
Serves as the department liaison with vendors, printers, marketing firms, and creative services agencies.
Represents the department and university as a subject matter expert on visual identity, advising on design needs, branding, and standards across campus.