Principal Gifts Writer

About the role

The University of Texas at Austin is a leading institution that aims to change the world through education and research. As part of the Texas Development team, you will play a crucial role in crafting compelling proposals for major gifts.

Responsibilities

• Produces clear, compelling, persuasive and brand-compliant proposals for principal, planned and corporate gifts of $1M and above.
• Oversees the review and approval process and delivers final products on established timelines.
• Supports 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.
• Maintains regular communication with assistant director for development and executive director for strategic priorities to execute major and principal fundraising projects.
• Supports other Texas Development communications projects and goals by providing general writing and editing support.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Salary

$75,000+ depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• Based in Austin, Texas.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States on a full-time basis for any employer without sponsorship.
• Works in standard office conditions, in a shared office environment, with repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM on-site work is the standard expectation for this position.
• May require additional hours during peak periods and special events.
• Regular and consistent attendance is required in this job.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• Three work references with contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor.
• Letter of Interest
• Three writing samples, including at least one major gift proposal or case for support.