Development Writer

Responsibilities

• 1. Craft short-form writing for a global donor audience in a variety of formats, e.g. impact updates and impact summaries, easy-to-read explainers, talking points, communication on breaking news, email fundraising copy, and funding menus;
• 2. Synthesize and shorten existing writing on a range of complex topics to make it accessible and engaging for a broad donor audience;
• 3. Stay up-to-date with HRW’s programmatic work, especially priority areas and latest impact, in order to accurately convey the mission and work of HRW in all materials;
• 4. Collaborate with development teams working on content, including the Foundations and Program Liaison office, Marketing, Planned Giving, Creative and fundraisers to conceptualize and develop compelling materials and templates that advance our fundraising objectives;
• 5. Liaise with colleagues in Program and Media Departments to inform and materials;
• 6. Set priorities and manage workflow for multiple projects on deadline in alignment with an established stewardship calendar, while still leaving capacity for opportunistic urgent response work;
• 7. Perform other responsibilities as may be required.

Requirements

• Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required.
• Experience: A minimum of five years writing compelling content on deadline for fundraising, development, marketing, or communications purposes is required.
• Related Skills and Knowledge:
• Excellent written and oral communications skills in English.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex information into succinct, compelling content for a broad donor audience.
• Demonstrated ability to tailor writing to different audiences, including across geographies.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality content on deadline.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to incorporate input and work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders, including executive staff.
• Excellent time and project management skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment when communicating breaking news to donor audiences.

Preferred

• Development or outreach experience in the non-profit sector is desirable.
• Experience producing visually appealing content including by working with graphic designers is desirable.

Benefits

• Salary and Benefits: HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers comprehensive compensation and benefits.