An exciting opportunity exists at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) in the Office of Philanthropy for a Content Writer/Editor .
The Content Writer/Editor for the UMB Office of Philanthropy (UMBOP) will work across multiple media and marketing channels on an integrated approach to storytelling and messaging aimed at conveying the impact of UMB fundraising and advancement efforts. These strategic communications will support the goals and mission of the department, support the University's philanthropic priorities, and inspire a culture of giving. Reporting to the UMBOP Director of Strategic Initiatives and Marketing, the Content Writer/Editor will work collaboratively with members of UMBOP and the greater UMB community to report, write, and edit feature stories and other types of content for distribution through digital, social, and print media. The Content Editor/Writer will primarily focus on communications that support the University's central philanthropy office (Communications, Corporation and Foundation Relations, Annual Giving, Planned Giving) as well as messaging generated by senior leaders, major gift officers, and administrators.
The ideal candidate will be a polished and creative communicator who possesses a demonstrated skill in writing compelling and persuasive copy; strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills; a professional and positive attitude; a demonstrated ability to work individually and in a team setting; and experience in interviewing, project management, proofreading, and editing. The candidate will have the ability to follow established University brand standards, work in a fast-paced environment, and manage multiple projects with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
***This is a Part-Time (20 hours/week)/Contractual position***
Primary Duties:
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Provides content development, research, review, writing, and editing support to UMBOP.
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Creates compelling content in support of philanthropic priorities, which include writing articles for and editing UMB's bimonthly SPOTLIGHT on Philanthropy newsletter.
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Crafts on-brand and compelling content for strategic communication projects that support the fundraising, acquisition, and stewardship goals of UMBOP and which may include digital and print solicitations, social media messaging, web content, email campaigns, news releases, grant proposals, impact reporting, and more.
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Optimizes and cross-purposes content across multiple media channels.
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Conducts research and interviews and synthesizes large amounts of information in a clear and accurate way. Prepares drafts and obtains approvals.
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Provides editorial assistance and proofreading functions as needed.
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Demonstrates strong project and time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines. Is flexible and adaptable in responding to changing priorities and new opportunities.
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Possesses the ability to write on behalf of various administrators and staff.
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Exhibits strong interpersonal and communication skills as well as a highly collaborative nature; the ability to work independently and collaborate successfully with internal and external partners; and the ability to work with confidential information.
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Adheres to UMB brand and style guidelines and content requirements.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field such as English, communications, or journalism.
Experience: One (1) year of experience in writing and editing documents.
Preferred: Demonstrated skill in writing compelling copy, editing, and proofreading; proven experience working in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines; detail-oriented.
Supervisory Experience: N/A
Certification/Licensure: N/A
Other: N/A
Preferreds:
Relevant content writing and editing experience for higher education, nonprofit fund development work, a corporation, or the communications/public relations field.
Proven work experience as a Content Writer/Editor or a similar role. Experience writing for fundraising and/or marketing campaigns within higher education or other persuasive writing experience.
Proficient in Associated Press style.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Knowledge of position requirements. Skill in effective use of applicable technology/systems. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently.
If accommodations are needed for a disability, please contact Staffing & Career Services at 410-706-2606, Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm EST. Maryland Relay can be accessed by dialing 711 (in-state) or 1-800-735-2258.
UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy.
