The Operations Project Coordinator supports integrated, multi-channel marketing efforts for University annual giving programs. Responsibilities include aspects of direct marketing operations: process coordination, using data and technology to execute marketing campaigns, and supporting others to achieve marketing objectives. Incumbent also contributes to a supportive and inclusive workplace.

Starting salary: $52,000- 60,000 based on experience.

Responsibilities:

Process Coordination (35%)

• Follow project plans and timelines developed by the Ops Team and marketing plans from Accounts team
• Assist with designing audience segmentation strategies and execute assigned basic elements of an existing strategy
• Perform quality checks and coordinates internal and external review and signoffs
• Support an integrated process of overlapping, conflicting, and dependent variables while making sure marketing campaigns go out in a timely, cost-effective manner
• Process invoices
• Cultivate effective, professional, and communicative relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders, including printers, mail houses, writers, designers, and relevant UMF and University colleagues
• Attend meetings, participate in creating the agenda, create presentations, and participate in discussions as relevant
• Exercise discretion vis a vis project work and interactions with vendors, donors, and internal partners within a defined framework. Resolves issues that require commercial knowledge and judgment within established procedures and consult with more senior team members for more complex issues.

Data, Technology, and Analytics (35%)

• Understand database capabilities (DeSelect and DMS) to routinely create and modify targeted donor and prospect marketing efforts for mailings, emails, and other ad hoc projects.
• Possess an understanding of data structure and level of comfort dealing with complex data.
• Collaborate with Account Managers on strategy and coordinate execution of annual plans.
• Collaborate with Engagement Center on strategy and provide operational support as needed.
• Perform solicitation code creation process with unit partners.
• Perform opt-out process for annual giving program donors and manage donor correspondence via phone and email independently.
• Utilizes existing reports related to project execution/quality control and assist with developing reports and proposals for planning and implementation, partnering with data team when appropriate
• Understand and communicate campaign results to Accounts team.
• Support rental list strategy for acquisition programs, analyzing and developing results reports

Alignment (30%)

• Assist with gathering of relevant market information/ best practices/ trends from other universities, hospitals, and nonprofits, (i.e. target audiences and appropriate messages) for the purpose of informing strategy
• Provide logistical support and coordination of bimonthly system-wide Annual Giving & Stewardship meetings as needed.
• Support internal teams with regards to managing direct marketing capabilities and industry trends appropriate to the growth and success of the University of Minnesota Foundation

Demonstrate commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an equitable and inclusive working and learning environment (exhibit 100% of the time)

• Continuous learning in diversity, equity and inclusion for oneself and team via training, podcasts, articles, etc.
• Seek to explore and understand cultural differences and create a culture of belonging.
• Develop and employ anti-racist practices and principles to accomplish work.
• Advocate for employees of all ethnicities, genders, ages and backgrounds.
• Cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with employees, colleagues, stakeholders, etc.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree (preferably in marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or other related field) or a combination of related education and work experience in project coordination to equal at least four years.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to multi-task, organize, prioritize, and meet timelines.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively influence and motivate others across teams and levels at the Foundation and University
• Ability to assist in developing big picture marketing strategies, while keeping an eye on details
• Proficient with PC including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Preferred

• Experience working in a professional office, nonprofit fundraising and/or higher education administration environment.
• Strong creative and problem-solving skills
• Skills in using a database management technologies such as marketing, donor management, or customer relationship management systems
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel applications; experience with Adobe Creative Suite

About the Department

At the University of Minnesota Foundation (UMF), our mission is to connect passion with possibility, inspire generosity, and support greatness at the University of Minnesota by placing donors at the heart of everything we do and every decision we make. UMF is a nonprofit organization responsible for raising and managing gifts to the University of Minnesota.

For more information about UMF, please visit https://give.umn.edu/about/about-umf.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).