Asst Director of Digital Communications

Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus.

Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.

Pay Range

Pay Range $68,000 - $69,000

Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate’s education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university’s strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.

Staff Level S5

FLSA Status

FLSA Status Exempt

Hours

Standard University business hours

8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year)
8:00am – 4:30pm (summer)

Hours may vary based on operational needs.

Job Type

Job Type Full-time

Unionized Position Code Not Applicable

Job Description

This role provides leadership for the email communications program operated by the Division of Advancement and External Affairs and used across the University, including schools, colleges and units, overseeing analytics, compliance and content standards across all digital fundraising, engagement and stewardship communications. Reporting to the Director of Digital Experience, this position directs audience segmentation, email performance optimization and cross-channel coordination to maximize donor engagement and support institutional fundraising goals.

The Asst. Director establishes and enforces quality standards for all advancement digital communications, including adherence to AP style, university brand guidelines, WCAG accessibility requirements and CAN - SPAM / PCI /gift compliance. The role supervises a Digital Communications Coordinator and leads the growth and development of the digital communications vertical. As a key member of the Digital Experience team, the Assistant Director partners with colleagues across the division and schools, colleges and units to ensure a coordinated, data-informed and donor-centric approach to digital communications.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or related field.
• 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in digital communications, email marketing, or related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in email marketing platforms and analytics tools.
• Strong knowledge of AP style and editorial standards.
• Working knowledge of WCAG accessibility guidelines and their application to digital content.
• Experience with web accessibility/ WCAG and PCI compliance.
• Experience with email data analysis and translating metrics into actionable insights.
• Proven project management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience supervising staff or leading projects.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and digital content management systems.
• Experience working with constituent resource management platforms. Blackbaud CRM experience preferred.
• Experience with HTML email coding and email testing tools.
• Experience with A/B testing and email optimization strategies.
• Understanding of data privacy regulations ( CAN - SPAM , GDPR ) as they apply to email communications.
• Some assignments and support may require work during non-business hours, including nights and / or weekends.

• Good communication and organizational skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to communicate corrections, determine desired intent and provide guidance to campus partners is crucial.
• Ability to provide timely responses to campus partners is critical, even after hours.
• Ability to evaluate, set priorities and execute on the fly.
• Be a self-starter and a creative and strategic thinker.
• High attention to detail and excellent organizational skills is necessary.
• Ability to quickly maneuver in a fast-paced…