Advancement Communications and Donor Engagement Manager Lead

Mission

Your mission is a pivotal role in aligning communication efforts with donor outreach and engagement strategies to enhance fundraising outcomes.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of targeted communication strategies to cultivate and steward donors, conveying the impact of philanthropy and aligning messaging with EPFL's mission and fundraising priorities.
• Oversee the creation and quality control of donor-centered content including annual reports, newsletters, impact stories, social media posts (LinkedIn), proposals, presentations, and acknowledgment materials.
• Oversee and support briefing documents for EPFL leadership
• Collaborate closely with faculty, research leaders, and internal stakeholders to develop compelling, data-driven cases for support.
• Manage external consultants contributing to content production, ensuring output meets institutional standards and deadlines.
• Work in close collaboration with both the Alumni and Mediacom units to ensure aligned and coordinated messaging

• Ensure timely delivery of all contractual obligations and commitments linked to donor agreements
• In partnership with internal stakeholders and Philanthropy team members, develop and implement engagement strategies to deepen relationships with a portfolio of major donors and prospects.
• Oversee prospect identification and qualification efforts through strategic segmentation and analysis working closely with the Senior Fundraiser Team Lead and the Philanthropy Managers.
• Support colleagues in the design and delivery of donor engagement experiences, while actively identifying and contributing to event opportunities for prospects and existing donors

• Ensure that all key donor and prospect engagement activities are accurately recorded and updated in the CRM system
• Lead on further CRM development and dashboard creation needs

• Oversee the regular update and content curation of philanthropy-focused platforms, including the website, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

• Responsible for producing regular key activity reports on prospecting, donor engagement and the fulfillment of donor-related obligations.

• Supervise and support team members
• Support team members through mentorship, professional development, and foster a culture of collaboration and excellence.

Performs other duties as required by the hierarchy contributing to the overall success of the organization's philanthropic fundraising activities.

Profile

Education and experience:

• A Master's degree in communication/marketing/political science/scientific diploma
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in communications or advancement, including proven experience in managing a small team and working in collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders
• Strong interest in research and higher education.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience working in a research or higher education environment is highly desirable.
• Beyond theoretical knowledge, adept at applying fundraising principles and donor engagement strategies through data-informed analysis of evolving philanthropic trends.

Competencies:

• Bilingual English-French, ideally English as a mother tongue, other languages a plus,
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

Skills:

• Strategic thinker,
• Attention to detail
• Proven ability to navigate within a multilayered, decentralized organization,
• Solid understanding of academic environment,
• Resistance to stress.

• A stimulating, dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international working environment
• An inclusive workspace and equal opportunities for all
• Excellent work conditions

Informations

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