Senior Writer

Make us smile. Tug on our heartstrings. Capture our spirit. As a writer for the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association (WFAA)* you’ll collaborate with a great team as you find the perfect words to connect with UW–Madison alumni, donors, students, and friends. WFAA is seeking an experienced marketing communications professional who will concept and write high-impact, strategic communications and content supporting multiple brands.

*The Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association is the “doing business as” name of the merged organization comprising the University of Wisconsin Foundation (www.supportuw.org) and the Wisconsin Alumni Association (www.uwalumni.com), whose legal corporate name is registered as the University of Wisconsin Foundation.

Develop strategic concepts and copy for branding campaigns, annual giving, and direct-marketing communications.

• Deliver consistent and compelling messaging related to advancement and development efforts.
• Write, edit, and research as appropriate for a range of platforms, including print, digital, video, advertising, direct mail, email, sales letters, invitations, newsletters, features, interactive, social media, display and other touchpoints.

Collaborate as part of marketing, creative, and cross-functional teams.

• Incorporate consumer insights and strategic messaging into writing.
• Work closely with design team to generate ideas, concepts, and content.
• Research and fact check as needed; edit and/or proofread on an occasional basis.
• Occasionally contribute to magazines and editorial products.
• Participate in strategy meetings; project management processes and adhere to deadlines and writing style guides and brand standards.
• Maintain awareness of trends and best practices in marketing, advertising, and communications.

Support a service-oriented atmosphere in accordance with WFAA mission, values and philosophy:

Strategic beliefs 

• The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a transforming impact on students, alumni, and society;
• Authentic, lifelong relationships and engagement with alumni, donors and friends are fundamental to sustaining the reputation and continued success of the University;
• Philanthropy has an essential and growing importance on the future progress of UW-Madison;
• The highest level of stewardship and fiduciary responsibility in financial, investment, data and gift administration is vital to maintaining trust with our stakeholders;
• Diverse views, experiences and perspectives strengthen WFAA and the university community.

Organizational values

• We are serious about delivering results;
• We work together and with our campus partners as a team;
• We are committed to alumni, donors, volunteers and others;
• We are open-minded;
• We create a positive work environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in advertising, marketing, journalism, English, or a related field;
• Five or more years of writing experience in an advertising or marketing environment;Outstanding written and overall communication skills;
• Portfolio of marketing or advertising work;
• Demonstrated creativity and idea generation that’s on strategy and produces clear, effective content;
• Open to feedback and being flexible with changes;
• Skills to manage multiple priorities and handle a high volume of work, while often producing copy at a fast pace;
• Talent for writing versions in different styles that appeal to various target audiences;
• Accuracy and attention to detail while meeting deadlines;
• Desire to seek and understand consumer insights to strengthen campaigns;
• Knowledge of Chicago Style, marketing concepts, standards and processes;
• Strong sense of accountability, knowledge of and passion for key issues;
• Ability to conduct research from primary and secondary sources;
• Knowledge of and passion for UW–Madison and higher education.

This is a full time, exempt position reporting to the Managing Senior Writer. We offer a competitive salary and an excellent benefit program.