The Senior Director leads a functional area of responsibility within the Development Communications team and drives content strategies that inspire philanthropy for Mayo Clinic. The Senior Director takes an active leadership role in the Department of Development to understand Mayo Clinic’s mission, strategic plan and fundraising priorities, and with this knowledge, leads others to apply communications best practices that drive benefactor qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship. May also maintain a portfolio of communications activities requiring direct writing contributions. As a leader and individual contributor, demonstrates exceptional written and oral communication skills, expert-level knowledge of building effective multichannel communications and engagement strategies, sharp editing skills, and a commitment to raising the bar for excellence. Content deliverables range from high touch to highly scalable depending on audience and business needs and may include benefactor proposals, impact reports, magazine articles, digital and multimedia assets, leadership remarks and correspondences, and other emerging needs.

A dedicated focus of this individual’s portfolio will be leading fundraising communications strategies that inspire philanthropic support for the digital transformation of healthcare. Deep knowledge of the healthcare environment is required, as is a demonstrated interest in the application of artificial intelligence and platform-based models to improve biomedical research and the patient and care team experience.

The Senior Director leads through influence, builds consensus and manages complex and cross-functional projects through entire project life cycle to achieve objectives and measurable results. Demonstrates adaptability and can successfully navigate a large, complex organization while embracing professionalism and collaboration. Proactively seeks opportunities to build and improve positive relationships with Mayo Clinic executive leadership, fundraising professionals, functional Development programs and staff in adjacent departments, such as Communications, Marketing and the Executive Office. Conveys confidence, clarity and transparency in communications with stakeholders and leaders. Mentors peers and may direct work of other partners, including agencies, contractors and third parties. May directly supervise communications associate directors and directors or indirectly supervise functional areas of responsibility. Exhibits servant leadership with empathy, kindness and support, inspiring loyalty. Instills direction, alignment and commitment for a shared sense of purpose.

A bachelor's degree in a related field, which may include liberal arts, business, communications, marketing, healthcare, or similar field, plus 7 years’ professional experience in the field of communications, fundraising or marketing, or a Master's degree plus 5 years’ professional experience in these fields is required. Experience leading and managing a high-performing team is preferred.

Must be a self-starter with the ability to independently identify opportunities, solutions and resolve challenges. Demonstrated ability to deliver impactful results. Requires an attitude that actively seeks out change and embraces critical questioning, innovation, service and continuous improvement. Must understand how to deal with and navigate ambiguity, and act without having the total picture. Must be able to quickly absorb information and rapidly plan and launch content development based on leadership feedback.

Demonstrated professionalism and ethics, with ability to earn trust and credibility among staff at all levels of the organization, including executive leadership, through integrity and transparency. Role models service excellence. Motivates others by being present, engaged and attentive. Invites diverse perspectives, demonstrates and inspires a collaborative spirit.

Excellent interpersonal skills to include presentation, negotiation, persuasion, team facilitation and ability to provide constructive feedback are required. Superior project management experience, knowledge and skills. Incumbent must have the ability to independently manage a varied workload of projects with multiple priorities and rapidly assess and adjust priorities as needed. Demonstrates interest in continuous learning and professional development within and beyond their area of functional expertise. Position requires occasional travel and the flexibility to work weekends and evenings as necessary.