George Washington University

Director, Advancement Communications & Philanthropic Proposals

George Washington University • $123K — $173K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field plus 8 years of experience, or a Master's degree plus 6 years of experience.
  • Demonstrated competence in written communications and investigative research.
  • Strong creative insight into written and visual communication.
  • Ability to work independently in a collaborative environment.
  • Superior interpersonal skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders.
  • Experience in a development or fundraising-related environment, preferably in academia or non-profits.
  • Familiarity with graphic design software and AI tools.

Responsibilities

  • Lead a writing team to create compelling campaign narratives.
  • Translate complex academic visions into clear messaging.
  • Research and write multi-million-dollar gift proposals.
  • Develop internal communications and editorial content.
  • Identify and implement emerging technologies to enhance writing efficiency.
  • Collaborate with university leadership and fundraisers to promote fundable ideas.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work schedule with onsite requirements.
  • Opportunity for professional development and growth.
  • Engagement with university leadership and frontline fundraisers.
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and tools.
  • Dynamic work environment in a prestigious academic setting.
Full Job Description
Posting Details

I. JOB OVERVIEW

Job Description Summary:

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, Strategic Operations and Campaign Director, this role is a strategic thought partner with university leadership, frontline fundraisers, and operations staff who will create and communicate campaign narratives and help uncover, shape, and promote fundable ideas from across the university.

The management position leads a small but nimble writing team that uses exceptional research, reporting, and storytelling skills to translate GW's strategic framework priorities and complex academic visions into clear, concise, and persuasive audience-first messaging. Content ranges from the research and writing of interdisciplinary "big ideas," or transformational initiatives, and bespoke multi-million-dollar gift proposals and cases for support to internal communications/intranet, editorial content such as announcements of landmark gifts, talking points, templates, and letters: all with the through-line of supporting attainment with campaign forward storytelling.

Financial literacy and knowledge of graphic design and the role of visual communication are a must, as well as an entrepreneurial attitude, project management mindset, and a demonstrated commitment to identifying and implementing emerging technological tools such as AI to enhance writing efficiency, creative brainstorming, and departmental workflows.

Performs other duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualified candidates will hold a Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 8 years of relevant professional experience, or, a Master's degree or higher in a relevant area of study plus 6 years of relevant professional experience. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position. Degree requirements may be substituted with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Additional Required Licenses/Certifications/Posting Specific Minimum Qualifications:

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated competence in written communications, investigative research or reporting, knowledge of digital media best practices including web information architecture, and comfort in presenting in informal or formal setting.
  • Strong creative insight into both written and visual communication, with the ability to distill complex and/or technical ideas into clear narratives that inform and inspire donors.
  • Ability to work independently and proactively in a highly collaborative environment and the ability to influence people over whom you have no formal authority.
  • Superior interpersonal and relationship-building skills with ability to interact with tact and diplomacy with various constituencies at all levels, including donors and university leadership.
  • Experience leading, supervising, and developing staff with a high degree of autonomy.
  • Professional experience in a development or fundraising-related environment, preferably an academic or non-profit setting.
  • Familiarity with directing graphic design and hands-on use of design software such as Canva, Marq, or InDesign, and a working command of AI tools and how to write optimal prompts. Comfort with MS Office, Google and Zoom workspace, and project management tools (Smartsheet, etc.) is desired.
  • Aptitude in mastering new technologies is preferred.


Hiring Range
$123,884.24 - $173,365.68

GW Staff Approach to Pay

Campus Location:
Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.

College/School/Department:
University Advancement

Family
Comm, Mktg & Media

Sub-Family
Communications and Public Relations

Stream
Management

Level
Level 3

Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full-Time

Hours Per Week:
40

Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Will this job require the employee to work on site?
Yes

Employee Onsite Status
Hybrid

Telework:
Yes

Required Background Check:
Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry Search

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Employer will not sponsor for employment Visa status
Please include a link to your portfolio within your application or resume. The portfolio should contain writing samples that demonstrate your ability to create compelling fundraising, donor engagement, and philanthropic communications content

Internal Applicants Only?
No

Posting Number:
S014492

Job Open Date:
10/01/2026

Job Close Date:

If temporary, grant funded, Sponsored Project funded or limited term appointment, position funded until:

Background Screening
Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire.

About George Washington University

George Washington University is a private research university that offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in a variety of fields, including business, law, medicine, and public policy. The university is located in Washington, D.C., and has a total enrollment of approximately 28,000 students. George Washington University was founded in 1821 and has a long history of academic excellence and research innovation. The university is known for its strong programs in international affairs, political science, and public health.
Learn more about George Washington University
Size
12,000 employees
Industry

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