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Strategic Communications Writer, Development

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
United States, Massachusetts, Woods Hole
Jun 10, 2025
Job Summary Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is currently seeking a Strategic Communications Writer to join the Development Department. Reporting to the Director of Advancement Operations and Stewardship, the Strategic Communications Writer plays a key role in supporting WHOI's fundraising efforts. This position collaborates closely with fundraising, scientific, and technical teams to develop compelling written materials that drive donor engagement. The Writer will lead the creation of donor-facing content-including funding proposals, annual and stewardship reports, and impact narratives-and provide writing support for executive communications, such as personalized correspondence and presentations. Job Description To apply for this role, please submit your resume, cover letter, and two (2) work samples. Essential Functions& Duties Create & produce high-quality, custom communications to inspire gift proposals/solicitations, focusing on six- and seven-figure levels Lead stewardship reporting for individual donors and broader groups, including the President's Fund and Annual Reports. Shape and execute the WHOI stewardship strategy in response to rapid donor and gift growth across all giving levels (including major/principal gifts, annual fund, and planned giving). Research, write, design, and edit compelling proposals, impact reports, vision statements, and donor stories, articulating the case for philanthropy to WHOI. Collaborate with frontline fundraisers and scientists to translate complex research into engaging donor narratives, deepening the relationship between WHOI and its supporters. Support fundraising campaigns with written materials such as direct-mail appeals, brochures, and presentation decks. Manage multiple communications projects, coordinate stakeholder reviews, and ensure timely delivery and accurate records. Draft high-level executive communications tailored to leadership voices in Advancement, Marketing and Development, to engage a variety of audiences. Collaborate with communications on strategic projects, including annual fund marketing, prospect/donor research, and new initiatives at WHOI. Maintain and update development content on the WHOI website. Conduct research to support fundraising strategies and initiatives. Required Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism/PR, Creative or Technical Writing or a related field 5+ years of professional writing experience in long- and short-form content Proven analytics and strategic thinking/mindset Ability to quickly grasp complex and technical information (ideally, about scientific topics) and synthesize it into clear, accurate, persuasive prose Strong organizational and time management skills Meticulous attention to detail Proven experience using diverse research methods-including interviews-to gain a deep understanding of WHOI research projects, funding opportunities, and stakeholder relationships Strong project management skills; able to prioritize and handle multiple projects simultaneously History of building and maintaining strong relationships with diverse stakeholders in a complex organizational setting Self-motivated and results-driven with a strong autonomous work ethic; takes initiative and ownership of special projects Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and handle sensitive or confidential information with the utmost discretion Proficient in MS Office Suite and/or MS Office Online. Preferred Education & Experience Experience supporting a nonprofit development team A history of writing for executive leadership, tailoring to their individual voices Experience translating complex scientific or technical concepts into clear, accessible content for diverse audiences Experience working with Raiser's Edge or other fundraising software(s) Additional Job Requirements Physical Requirements Physicalduties for this position include but are not limited to: occasional standing and/or walking along with being mostly and continuously sedentary. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others.Physicalduties are subject to change. Travel <25% WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process. EEO Statement Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.