Proposal Writer

The proposal writer is an important member of the strategic communications team in University Marketing at William & Mary. In collaboration with advancement and university leadership, frontline gift officers and academic stakeholders and based on research and analysis in support of the university's strategic vision, the proposal writer will craft persuasive written materials for donors to outline investment and funding opportunities.

This position will report to the Director of Strategic Communications and Proposals. For fundraising products and proposals, the proposal writer will work with others to identify and evaluate opportunities and leverage university strengths and resources to articulate the investment value of gift opportunities to prospective donors. Peer review is an essential part of the process and the ability to connect the dots between big ideas and donors' interest is essential for success in this role.

The successful proposal writer will be an innovator - a values-driven professional who will foster a culture of belonging. This is a hybrid position based in Williamsburg, Virginia, that offers a flexible work environment.

Please review the full position description with all job duties under the "Featured Job Opportunities" on the University Advancement recruitment website:

https://advancement.wm.edu/come-work-with-us/open-positions/index.php

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism or related area of study, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Exceptional writing skills and attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to successfully meet deadlines and prioritize workload.
• Exceptional and sophisticated project management skills. Strong collaborative skills among a diverse group of partners.
• Commitment to the continuing improvement of concepts and projects. Effective and persistent in engagement of multiple stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
• The interest and proven ability to seek opportunities to align donor interest with university priorities.
• Well-rounded portfolio with a variety of proposals, including complex proposals.
• Proven experience managing multiple priorities and working toward established goals and strong track record in advancing entrepreneurial initiatives to connect visionary ideas with realistic expectations, while constantly exploring varied avenues and new opportunities.
• Experience with conducting in-depth research and analysis.
• Experience working in a team environment, as well as independently and autonomously.
• Experience establishing and maintaining productive, long-term relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Master's degree in communications or marketing or a related area of study.
• Experience in a higher education setting and an understanding of the dynamics involved with a state-supported institution; specific knowledge of William & Mary.
• Experience in an advancement, development office or nonprofit setting.
• Experience engaging with multiple stakeholders to correlate seemingly disparate ideas or concepts in support of overall fundraising priorities.
• Proven ability to take calculated risks and adapt to situations and opportunities.