What You'll Do
The temporary Communications Specialist coordinates communications activities for the University and Development Events team within the Office of University Development. You will plan, research, and write content for a variety of print and digital materials, including invitation packages and commencement websites, to increase awareness about the impact of philanthropy at U-M and share event information with internal/external guests.
Responsibilities*
You will be responsible for developing strategic communication plans and creating compelling content, including invitation package copy, event programs, digital content for commencement websites, and other collateral. This also includes copyediting and proofreading to ensure accuracy and consistency. Our goal is to engage a diverse range of donors and prospective audiences through effective storytelling. Your work will involve research, writing, editing, case development, copywriting, media relations, and promotion across various channels?including print, web, and email marketing (such as save-the-dates, invitations, reminders, and confirmations).
Writing and Editing Invitation Packages (40%)
- Collaborate with campus partners and stakeholders to design, write, and edit content for all print and digital invitation packages, including invitations, registration forms, event websites, maps, and confirmations.
- Edit and proofread all related content to maintain quality and accuracy.
- Oversee the creation and production of ceremonial certificates and awards.
- Work closely with the Event Design Team to manage task assignments and workloads, ensuring all deadlines are met.
Commencement Website (25%)
- Create and maintain commencement websites for events such as Spring Commencement, Rackham Graduate Exercises, Winter Commencement, and Honors Convocation.
- Develop and copy edit content for website pages to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency.
- Research and recommend new technologies to enhance the guest experience on commencement websites.
Event Day Assets (20%)
- Collaborate with event teams to design, create, and produce materials that support the goals of in-person and virtual events, such as programs, name books, signage, giveaways, posters, and name tags.
- Proofread and review all printed and digital materials, including programs, citations, invitations, confirmations, website content, and registration forms, to ensure quality and accuracy.
Executive and Internal Communications (5%)
- Responsible for script production (compile content, write connecting language/stage direction, and produce and distribute documents for stage and vendor use).
Miscellaneous communications responsibilities you may be asked to perform (10%)
- Participate in special department projects, goal setting, and task forces.
- Attend monthly Development Council meetings.
- Monitor event industry standards and trends.
- Maintain knowledge of U-M policies and standard practices.
- Staff events as assigned.
Note:
- Overtime necessary to include early mornings, evenings, and weekends, some holidays.
- Travel may be required and may occur at any time of the year, including holidays.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor?s degree and 1+ years of work experience in writing, PR, communications or related field.
- Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proofreading skills; spelling, grammar and punctuation.
- Ability to collaborate with other departments and team members.
- Ability to compose and communicate efforts for several audiences.
- Ability to set priorities, handle multiple assignments and deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to handle confidential materials and situations with discretion.
- Initiative and creativity.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.