Job Information
Michigan State University(MSU) Principal Gifts Communications Strategist/ Development Officer II in East Lansing, Michigan
Working/Functional Title
Principal Gifts Communications Strategist
Position Summary
BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY
Reporting to the Associate Vice President, University Advancement, the Principal Gifts Communication Strategist plays a critical role on the Principal Gifts team in creating high-level, tailored proposals for principal gift prospects, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities, donor interests, and the overall advancement strategy.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
*Writing and Proposal Development * • Develop strategic, persuasive, and impactful proposals for principal gift prospects, aligning with institutional priorities and donor interests. • Participate in high-level strategy meetings, conduct thorough research, and synthesize all data to craft well-informed cases for support, incorporating compelling impact stories, institutional vision, and future goals. • Take the lead in drafting high-quality concept papers, case statements, white papers, and other high-level fundraising materials to articulate funding opportunities. • Revise, edit, and improve proposals to ensure clarity, conciseness, tone, and alignment with both donor expectations and institutional goals, incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders.
*Strategic Collaboration * • Partner closely with development officers, senior academic leaders, deans, faculty, and other key stakeholders to identify and prioritize funding opportunities that resonate with major donors. • Collaborate with leadership to gather insights, ensuring proposals reflect institutional vision, long-term strategies, and top philanthropic priorities. • Proactively serve as a strategic thought partner in crafting unique donor-centric communication and cultivation strategies. • Work cross-functionally with marketing, communications, and alumni relations teams to ensure proposal alignment with broader institutional messaging and external communications.
*Research and Data Utilization * • Conduct advanced research into donor interests, philanthropic trends, and nonprofit fundraising best practices to inform proposal content and strategy. • Leverage institutional data and research to provide evidence-based narratives that demonstrate the potential for measurable impact, maximizing donor engagement.
*Design and Visual Content * • Collaborate with design teams or oversee the creation of visually compelling proposal layouts, incorporating advanced graphics, charts, infographics, and multimedia elements to strengthen storytelling. • Ensure proposals adhere to the institution's brand standards while enhancing the overall donor experience, balancing aesthetics with functional messaging.
*Project Management * • Lead and manage multiple high-priority proposal projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met while maintaining the highest quality standards. • Develop and maintain comprehensive project timelines, work plans, and tracking systems to ensure seamless coordination and efficient proposal delivery. • Take responsibility for managing the proposal approval process, ensuring all relevant stakeholders are engaged and feedback is incorporated in a timely manner.
Stewardship and Follow-Up • Contribute to donor stewardship by drafting comprehensive impact reports and other updates that highlight the outcomes and lasting legacy of philanthropic investments. • Support ongoing donor cultivation by creating tailored materials and communication that engage donors through their giving journey, ensuring continued support and increased donor retention.
Minimum Requirements
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Commun
