Senior Advancement Communication Specialist

“At Perimeter, I have found that on timescales of months, you can execute the kinds of projects that would otherwise take many years elsewhere. Anything can happen at Perimeter.” 

– Avery Broderick, Associate Faculty member, Perimeter Institute

Scientists at Perimeter Institute explore the cutting edge of modern theoretical physics. They grapple with everything from the mind-bending mysteries of the quantum realm to fundamental questions about the universe that inspire awe in people of all ages and backgrounds. As the Institute approaches its 25th anniversary and looks ahead to the next 25 years, we’re seeking a dynamic storyteller who can apply similarly ambitious thinking to Perimeter’s vital advancement and communications efforts.

The Senior Advancement Communication Specialist is an experienced communicator, who combines hands-on execution with strategic thinking, backed by a strong background in advancement communications. This role is critical in driving revenue growth and building impactful relationships with major gift donors, high-profile prospects, and other key stakeholders. Collaborating across Perimeter with senior leadership, researchers, and the Advancement and Communications teams, the specialist will conceptualize, develop, and implement communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences and expand Perimeter’s outreach to international markets.

Perimeter is not a place for repetitive, cookie-cutter communications or rehashed ideas. The successful candidate will have the creative freedom to craft compelling narratives that resonate with major donors. They will design tailored communication plans and activities that highlight the Institute’s unique global impact. All this will be done within an inspiring, award-winning facility, supported by a dynamic and responsive administrative team. 

“Perimeter is a long-term investment that will pay off exponentially. The work we do here will yield profound results – not only for the future of technology, but for the future of Canada and all of humanity.” 

– Michael Serbinis, Board Chair, Perimeter Institute

More about Perimeter Institute

In less than 25 years, Perimeter Institute has grown into the world’s largest independent research hub devoted to theoretical physics, competing for talent with storied institutions like Stanford, Princeton, and Cambridge. Founded with a vision of fostering breakthroughs in our fundamental understanding of the universe, Perimeter provides the ideal environment for brilliant young minds seeking to make rapid advances in nascent research areas. Located in the dynamic, entrepreneurial Region of Waterloo, the not-for-profit Institute is a unique public-private endeavour that enables cutting-edge research, trains the next generation of scientific pioneers, and shares the power of physics through award-winning educational outreach and public engagement.

It’s an exciting time to join Perimeter. The arrival of the Institute’s new Executive Director and planned 25th anniversary celebrations in 2025 will both provide natural catalysts for new and renewed donor engagement. Impactful and compelling communication will be crucial in driving this momentum.

Key Competencies and Responsibilities:

• Content Development: Proactively write, edit, and create diverse content for all Advancement audiences. This includes e-newsletters, web content, social media posts, print publications, audio content, proposals, letters, video storyboarding and scripting, video production, invitations, media releases, stories, and profiles. Craft compelling stories and profiles that highlight impact and drive engagement, encouraging donor support.
• Collaboration: Partner with Perimeter’s Leadership, Board members, Faculty/Researchers, and other departments (Outreach, Government Relations, External Relations) to create cohesive and strategic communication materials that strengthen donor relationships, and support advancement engagement with prospective donors.
• Research and Data Analysis: Gather critical data and insights, conduct informational interviews with researchers, and synthesize information to support major reports and communications.
• Digital Strategy: Write and edit digital content (website, social media, appeals) that effectively communicates Perimeter’s mission and priorities, while increasing engagement with potential donors.
• Workflow Optimization: Develop templates, writing/style guides, and workflows to establish a unified Advancement voice and streamline the communication process.
• Project Management: Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to strategic goals.
• Other: Prepare briefing notes and related materials for the Senior Leadership Team and assist with preparing material for other advancement-related projects as needed.   

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of professional experience as either a writer/editor or as an advancement professional.
• Completed post secondary education in either a communications or fundraising relevant field
• A demonstrated track record of conceptualizing and executing large-scale new ideas
• Demonstrated success authoring funded reports to individuals, corporations, foundations, granting agencies, and/or government.
• A demonstrated ability to tell compelling, human-centric stories for various audiences, especially prospective and current donors.
• Excellent reporting and writing skills, with an innate ability to convey scientific concepts and their significance to a non-scientific audience.
• Proven track record of meeting tight deadlines and managing multiple short and long-term projects.

Desired Assets:

• Experience working with a non-profit or academic institution
• Familiarity with content management systems
• Experience in contributing to revenue targets
• Physics courses at the university level
• Written or verbal fluency in French

Please submit the following application documents before November 5, 2024, in order to ensure full consideration of your application:

• Cover Letter
• Resume (indicating experience and relevant qualifications)
• Relevant Writing Sample

The posting will remain live until the position is filled. We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in support of Perimeter Institute but will only be connecting with select individuals.

Perimeter Institute is committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons, women, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

Perimeter Institute provides support throughout the application process for applicants with disabilities. We work with you to understand the impact of your disability to appropriately accommodate you during the application/interview process. Please contact [email protected] for assistance.