Overview:

The operations project manager manages integrated, multi-channel marketing efforts for University annual giving programs. Responsibilities include all aspects of direct marketing operations: process management, analyzing data and using technology to execute marketing campaigns, and supporting others to achieve marketing objectives. Incumbent also contributes to a supportive and inclusive workplace.

Job Responsiblities:

Process Management (35%)

• Create project plans and timelines based on marketing plans from Account Exec team.
• Design audience segmentation strategies and advise on audience journeys
• Performs quality checks and coordinates internal and external review and signoffs
• Manage an integrated process of overlapping, conflicting, and dependent variables while making sure marketing campaigns go out in a timely, cost-effective manner; take the lead on projects and provide project status to greater team
• Expert negotiation of project pricing and timelines, vetting and selecting vendors, managing vendor expectations and overseeing execution of all aspects of production.
• Process invoices and track operational budgets
• Own and cultivate effective, professional, and communicative relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders, including printers, mail houses, writers, designers, and relevant UMF and  University colleagues
• Lead meetings to include determining agenda, creating presentations and presenting and leading discussions as relevant.
• Exercise discretion vis a vis project work and interactions with vendors, donors, and internal partners. Resolve most immediate presenting issues, engaging others as needed.

Data, Technology, and Analytics (35%)

• Harness database capabilities (DeSelect and DMS) to routinely generate and create targeted donor and prospect marketing efforts for mailings, emails, and other ad hoc projects. Possess a strong understanding of data structure and high level of comfort dealing with complex data.
• Collaborate with Account Executives on strategy and manage execution of annual plans.
• Collaborate with Engagement Center to strategize and provide operational support as needed.
• Lead solicitation code creation process with unit partners.
• Lead opt-out process for annual giving program donors and manage donor correspondence via phone and email with little to no assistance from supervisor.
• Analyze and help develop reports and proposals for planning and implementation, present to program manager, management/ work group (presentations may be formal or informal depending on the nature of projects), partnering with data team when appropriate
• Analyze campaign results and make recommendations to Accounts team. Recognize patterns and connections in information and know when to bring ideas forward.
• Lead rental list strategy for acquisition programs, analyzing and developing results reports

Alignment (30%)

• Gather relevant market information/ best practices/ trends from other universities, hospitals, and nonprofits, (i.e. target audiences and appropriate messages) for the purpose of informing strategy
• Provide logistical support and coordination of bimonthly system-wide Annual Giving & Stewardship meetings as needed.
• Support internal teams with regards to managing direct marketing capabilities and industry trends appropriate to the growth and success of the University of Minnesota Foundation

Demonstrate commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an equitable and inclusive working and learning environment (exhibit 100% of the time)

• Continuous learning in diversity, equity and inclusion for oneself and team via training, podcasts, articles, etc.
• Seek to explore and understand cultural differences and create a culture of belonging.
• Develop and employ anti-racist practices and principles to accomplish work.
• Advocate for employees of all ethnicities, genders, ages and backgrounds
• Cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with employees, colleagues, stakeholders, etc.

Starting Pay: $58,000 - $68,000 based on experience

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree (preferably in marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or other related field) plus at least two years of project coordination experience, or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least six years.
• Project management skills including the ability to multi-task, organize, prioritize, and meet timelines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively influence and motivate others across teams and levels at the Foundation and University
• Strategic, creative and problem-solving skills to adapt to challenges and changes.
• Proficiency in PC including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Skills in using database management systems related to marketing donors, or customer relationships.

Preferred

• Three or more years of experience in comprehensive direct marketing/marketing communications (from list generation, production, and postal regulations to print and creative) at a complex organization
• Experience working a nonprofit fundraising and/or higher education administration environment.

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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