Staff Writer and Correspondence Manager - WDR-00026908

What is Cornell University?
Cornell University, unique among peers, is a privately endowed research university and a partner of the State University of New York. As the federal land-grant institution in New York State, we have a responsibility—unique within the Ivy League—to make contributions in all fields of knowledge in a manner that prioritizes public engagement to help improve the quality of life in our state, the nation, the world. Check out this link to find out more about Cornell.

What you will do:

The Office of the President is seeking a Staff Writer and Correspondence Manager who will be responsible for overseeing presidential correspondence and providing a broad range of high-level writing and editorial support. Responsibilities include reviewing incoming correspondence, drafting replies, and managing outgoing responses to a consistently high standard; creating, reviewing, and/or editing a variety of written materials; and working closely with members of the President’s staff and the various vice presidents’ staffs to ensure that correspondence is appropriate, accurate, and timely.

Additionally you will:

• Provide executive-level writing and editing support.
  • Manage Office of the President correspondence process:
  • Identify writers' concerns and determine appropriate handling of correspondence.
  • Partner with colleagues in the Division of University Relations, the Division of Alumni Affairs and Development, and other offices to support seamless communication efforts.
  • As necessary, research and compose replies for review by the President and Chief of Staff.
  • Maintain organized records of correspondence.
  • Provide reports on correspondence trends and responses.
  • Recommend administrative strategies or changes in internal operating procedures to improve and expedite correspondence and eliminate process problems.
• Support the President’s speechwriter as requested. Support may include research, editing, and proofreading; drafting remarks, bullet points, quotations, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Provide correspondence, award nomination, and speech support to the Provost as requested.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the President and/or Chief of Staff.
• Serve as backup to President’s speechwriter in her absence.

Writing samples will be required of candidates who are advanced for consideration.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

You will need:

A bachelor’s degree with at least 3 to 5 years of relevant experience, preferably in executive communications and/or speechwriting, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Proven skilled, creative, and flexible writer and editor experience with a sensitive ear for language and finely developed senses of discretion, tact, and humor;
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously with a journalist’s respect for both accuracy and deadlines;
• Ability to foster effective working relationships at all levels of the university, while ensuring that the work of the President’s office remains a priority;
• Ability to deeply care about the quality of their work.
• A demonstrated strength in innovative and creative thinking and a deep commitment to providing information that enables people to access information as easily and intuitively as possible.
• A strong interest in, knowledge of, and understanding of best practices and trends in communication, documentation, content strategy, and user experience.
• Highly skilled with technology with a thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office products, such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, SharePoint and Visio.
• Excellent judgment; are analytical, curious, creative, and tenacious; demonstrates a strong, self-directed work ethic; and is productive working independently as well as collaboratively.

If you have any of the following, it’s a great bonus:

• Experience in a legislative office;
• Journalism experience.
• Experience as a staff writer working in higher education;

This is a full-time position reporting to the Chief of Staff.

What we offer:

Great benefits that include educational benefits, access to a plethora of wellness programs, employee discounts with local and national retail brands, health care options to choose from, generous paid leave provisions: 3 weeks of vacation, 12 university paid holidays (including end of year winter break through New Year’s Day) and superior retirement contributions.

An active and diverse community to work and thrive in! Cornell is situated in picturesque Ithaca, New York, the heart of the Finger Lakes. While we can’t say enough about beautiful Ithaca, consideration will be given to those who may wish to work remotely.

Note: No Visa sponsorship is available for this position.

https://cornell.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CornellCareerPage/job/Ithaca-Main-Campus/Staff-Writer-and-Correspondence-Manager_WDR-00026908-1

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students, and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose, and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery, and engagement.