Job Abstract

JOB SUMMARY

The Communications and Development Associate provides administrative and project support for the fundraising, marketing and public relations functions of the organization to achieve the goals of the Development Department. The Communications and Development Associate has the primary responsibility for managing the department’s databases, mailing lists, software programs, and the expansion and maintenance of a social media presence and website content. The Communications and Development Associate provides support to the Senior Communications and Development Associate on grant writing and reporting, creation of marketing materials and publications for the organization. The Communications and Development Associate participates in planning, organizing and attending fundraising events and develops relationships with internal and external stakeholders to maximize the effectiveness of the department and to help meet the needs of our students.

FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt employee

SUPERVISION: Communications and Development Associate reports to the Senior Communications and Development Associate

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Participate in the development and execution of departmental strategy to cultivate donors, corporate support, win grants, and develop new sources of support to reach fundraising goals
• Assist the Senior Communications and Development Associate with all aspects of donor cultivation
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of all gifts and acknowledgement letters and other donor communications
• Participate in creation, planning, content, and marketing strategy for publications
• Maintain a calendar for donor communications
• Ensure website and social media content is up-to-date, relevant, timely, and accurate; manage the organization’s presence on social media
• Coordinate online giving campaigns
• Research foundations, corporations, and government funding opportunities; maintain an accurate list of grant prospects
• Assist with the coordination of grant proposals and report submissions; collect data needed for proposals and reports
• Manage grant records and foundation contacts in the department database and filing system
• Provide assistance with planning, promoting, and coordinating fundraising events; communicate with vendors, donors, and other contacts as requested by the Senior Development Associate
• Manage and maintain accurate records and event-related documents including participant notification and follow-up, hospitality and onsite management; coordinate all data entry related to events
• Produce gift reports on a regular basis and reconcile with the Finance Department quarterly
• Demonstrates leadership by planning, preparing and leading small events/meeting as assigned and representing the organization at community events
• Process the development office mailings including the annual report, newsletters, and other publications; manage and maintain mailing lists
• Provide administrative assistance as required to the Senior Communications and Development Associate and CEO as needed
• Assist the Senior Communications and Development Associate to execute events and marketing by acting as a liaison to print vendors, graphic designers, and other consultants for additional publications/projects as needed
• Assist in gathering statistical data and outcomes with other designated staff to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of information to various internal and external stakeholders
• Represent The Foundation Schools at off-site fundraising events, school activities, and development related trainings
• Actively participate in and keep accurate records of all Development and Benefit Committee meetings
• Consistently model and implement the company’s core values to incorporate Teamwork, Work Ethic, Integrity, Respect and Leadership into positive behaviors while at work.
• Comply with all Foundation Schools’ policies, rules, protocols and procedures
• Complete other duties as assigned

Education, Experience and Certification

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Communications or other related field is preferred
• Two years or more years of administrative experience required
• Experience in project management, fundraising, marketing or public relations preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail and follow-through
• Experience working with a variety of social media and fundraising platforms
• Experience researching, writing and editing grants preferred

Physical, Interpersonal and Cognitive Requirements

• Utilize basic office equipment such as computer, tablet, telephone, fax, copier, etc.
• Complete reports and data input while using a variety of computer programs
• Move and carry supplies; light lifting, non-repetitive
• Maintain a professional demeanor and relationship with students, colleagues, families, community representatives and board members
• Work positively and collaboratively with others
• Maintain a professional work ethic and meet the standards of professionalism including appropriate attire, attendance and timeliness
• Demonstrate effective time management and organization skills
• Prioritize & plan work activities
• Use critical thinking to assess problems
• Use time and resources efficiently, set realistic action plans and goals
• Speak clearly and be understood by others
• Read and express thoughts in a written format
• Possess and demonstrate a high level of mental and emotional balance