Communications Specialist

The Communications Specialist supports the donor communication efforts of the Wisconsin Historical Foundation on behalf of the annual giving and development teams.

Primary Duties:

• Oversee all major donor communications, including proposals, grants, reports and other correspondence with constituents.
• Collaborate with Society and Foundation staff to coordinate fundraising communications needs and assign related duties as needed.
• Develop and write direct mail solicitations for upper-level members, corporate partners, special appeals, and other donor segments as-needed
• Consult with the annual giving team to help manage their communications calendar and ensure that donors receive the right touchpoints and messaging at the right times
• Project manage, edit and write for the membership newsletter, Columns, which mails three times per year
• Write and coordinate mailing of major gift acknowledgement letters and additional personalized correspondence with major donors
• Edit and proofread development, annual giving, and other communications
• Carry out the messaging or “voice” of the Foundation and uphold the Society’s brand standards in donor-facing communications
• Other projects as assigned

Supervisory Duties:

• Provide supervision for Grants Writer and oversight for proposals and reports

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Supervisory and project management experience preferred
• Superior verbal and written communication skills, an advanced knowledge of grammar rules and a high degree of proficiency in copyediting and proofreading are required
• The professional maturity to build alliances and foster teamwork with a variety of staff across the organization
• Proficiency in all major Microsoft Office programs
• Advanced working knowledge of databases; Raiser’s Edge experience preferred
• Commitment to accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and manage several tasks simultaneously
• Strong organizational, prioritization and time management skills
• Customer-focused attitude
• Must thrive in a fast-paced environment

Experience:

• Applicants with 1-3 years of related experience and those with prior work experience in a nonprofit or fundraising organization are preferred.
• Please include 3-5 writing samples (in .pdf format) that demonstrate writing skills related to the stated duties.

Starting salary: $42,000 - $45,000 dependent upon qualifications and experience. The position is eligible for the Wisconsin Historical Foundation’s benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance; competitive retirement plan and generous PTO policy. The Communications Specialist is a part of a friendly, supportive team with a commitment to collaboration and growth.