Marketing Assistant

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university unlike any other. We're dedicated to serving the needs of students and patients and our passionate community isn't afraid to tackle difficult challenges others can't or won't. We’re home to creativity, teaching, discovery and healing. Our location in the heart of downtown Richmond, Virginia, means the nonstop energy of our city ignites our innovation and provides unlimited opportunities.

The mission of VCU’s Office of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) is to maximize philanthropic support by engaging stakeholders with our institution, working in partnership with all VCU schools, programs and campuses as one development and alumni relations community and implementing the best practices and efficient strategies to achieve a comprehensive development program.

Position summary

This newly created hourly Marketing Assistant role provides essential administrative and operational support to VCU’s DAR Marketing team, with a primary focus on marketing effort configuration in our database of record, generating tracking links in GiveCampus and other team support. This team member could also assist in the direct marketing and email marketing space, helping in Blackbaud CRM and/or in MailChimp. This person will work as part of a busy marketing team and must be able to work independently as well as part of a team. This role is ideal for a highly organized, detail-oriented individual who is eager to learn the mechanics of a professional marketing operation and support strategic campus initiatives. The marketing assistant reports to the senior director, DAR Marketing, and will interact with internal DAR partners and colleagues throughout VCU.

This is a part-time position for 25-28 hours a week and is eligible for fully remote work. The position is supported by restricted funding, and continuation of the role is contingent upon the availability of budgeted funds.

Key responsibilities

As the marketing assistant, you will: 

• Configure direct marketing and public media efforts in Blackbaud CRM.
• Build and share tracking links in GiveCampus for marketing efforts. 
• Assist with email and direct mail marketing projects.
• Manage multiple projects and meet fast-paced deadlines.
• Work with leadership to find alternative solutions when resources are not available.

• Support other marketing functions as needed.

As a team member, you will:

• Ensure work is completed accurately and within deadline. 
• Set high standards, exhibit a positive attitude, maintain strict confidentiality and show exemplary work ethic.
• Demonstrate exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrate an open-minded approach to understanding people from all backgrounds, identities, abilities, perspectives and experiences.
• Establish, cultivate and maintain collaborative working relationships with internal partners.
• Reflect DAR’s and VCU’s core purpose and values.

Required qualifications

• B.S. in marketing or related field, or equivalent work experience
• Experience in working with databases, especially Blackbaud eCRM.
• Experience using project management tools, especially Smartsheet.
• One year or more of experience in a related position
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple small tasks and meet deadlines reliably
• Ability to pivot on short notice
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency with standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace)
• Ability to handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from various backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with tracking links, especially in GiveCampus. 
• Experience with marketing principles.
• Experience in an academic medical center, health care or higher education (Research I) setting or similar complex environments.
• Familiarity with development and alumni relations.

Unit: Development MBU

Department: Operations

Hourly Range: $20.00-$22.00 per hour

Benefits: All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Hours per Week: 25-28 hours

Restricted Position: Yes,The position is supported by restricted funding, and continuation of the role is contingent upon the availability of budgeted funds.

ORP Eligible: No

Eligible for sponsorship (e.g. H-IB visa status, etc.): No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Yes, this position is is eligible for fully remote work

Contact Information:
Contact Name: Izzy Kane
Contact Email: irkane@vcu.edu