EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, is one of the most dynamic university campuses in Europe and ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide. The EPFL employs more than 6,500 people supporting the three main missions of the institutions: education, research and innovation. The EPFL campus offers an exceptional working environment at the heart of a community of more than 18,500 people, including over 14,000 students and 4,000 researchers from more than 120 different countries.

Advancement Communications and Donor Engagement Manager

Mission

The ACDEM plays a pivotal role in aligning communication efforts with donor outreach and engagement strategies to enhance fundraising outcomes

Main duties and responsibilities

Strategic Communications & Content Development

  • Lead the design and implementation of targeted communication strategies to cultivate and steward donors, conveying the impact of philanthropy and aligning messaging with EPFL’s mission and fundraising priorities.
  • Oversee the creation and quality control of donor-centered content including annual reports, newsletters, impact stories, social media posts (LinkedIn), proposals, presentations, and acknowledgment materials.
  • Oversee and support briefing documents for EPFL leadership
  • Collaborate with faculty, research leaders, and internal stakeholders to develop compelling, data-driven cases for support.

Donor Engagement, Stewardship & Prospect Strategy

  • In partnership with internal stakeholders, develop and implement engagement strategies to deepen relationships with a portfolio of major donors and prospects.
  • Oversee prospect identification and qualification efforts through strategic segmentation and analysis
  • Support colleagues in the design and delivery of donor engagement experiences, while actively identifying and contributing to event opportunities for prospects and existing donors.

CRM Data Management 

  • Ensure key donor and prospect engagement activities are recorded and updated in the CRM system
  • Lead on further CRM development  and dashboard creation needs 

Oversight of Communication Channels 

  • Oversee the regular update and content curation of philanthropy-focused platforms, including the website, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Leadership & Management 

  • Directly supervise (support, develop, mentor team members) the Donor Engagement Officer, Senior Liaison Coordinator Officer, and CRM & Prospecting Officer 
  • Supervise external consultants contributing to content production, ensuring outputs meet institutional standards and deadlines.
  • Work in close collaboration with both the Alumni and Mediacom units to ensure aligned and coordinated messaging
  • Enhance a culture of collaboration and excellence.

 Reporting & Metrics 

  • Responsible for producing regular key activity reports on prospecting, donor engagement and the fulfillment of donor-related obligations.

 

Performs other duties as required by the hierarchy contributing to the overall success of the organization’s philanthropic fundraising activities.

Profile

Education and experience:

  • A communication/marketing/political science/scientific degree with a minimum of 7 years of experience in communication.
  • Strong interest (experience working in such environment is highly desirable) in research and higher education.
  • Knowledgeable about fundraising and interested in trend analysis.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

 

Knowledge:

  • Bilingual French - English, other languages a plus,
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills,
  • Experience in Work cross-functionally with academic and administrative leadership to support institutional priorities

We offer

  • A stimulating, dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international working environment
  • An inclusive workspace and equal opportunities for all
  • Excellent work conditions

Informations

Contract Start Date : 10/01/2025 

Activity Rate : 100.00 

Contract Type: CDI

Duration:  

Reference: 1633