Assistant Dean for Advancement and External Relations

The University of Southern Mississippi • Hattiesburg, MS

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Dean for Advancement and External Relations provides strategic leadership for fundraising, alumni engagement, corporate partnerships, and external relations within the College of Business and Economic Development. Reporting to the Dean, the position develops and implements advancement initiatives that increase philanthropic support, strengthen relationships with alumni and external stakeholders, and advance the College's mission and strategic priorities. The Assistant Dean collaborates with the University Foundation, Alumni Association, College leadership, and community partners to expand fundraising opportunities, enhance stakeholder engagement, and support the long-term growth and success of the College.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Higher Education, or a related field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, advancement, development, alumni relations, corporate relations, or a related field.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles, donor cultivation, stewardship, alumni relations, and advancement best practices.
• Knowledge of corporate engagement, sponsorship development, and strategic partnership cultivation.
• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive fundraising and external relations strategies.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with donors, alumni, corporate leaders, community partners, and University stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal, presentation, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, analyze information, and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, University Advancement, and external constituents while maintaining confidentiality and professional ethics.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Higher Education, or a related field.
• Previous experience working in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Assists the Dean in developing and implementing a comprehensive advancement strategy that increases philanthropic support through annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, endowments, corporate sponsorships, and foundation partnerships.
• Cultivates, solicits, and stewards relationships with alumni, donors, corporations, foundations, and community partners while managing a portfolio of prospective and current donors.
• Collaborates with the University Foundation and Alumni Association to coordinate fundraising initiatives, donor stewardship, alumni engagement, prospect management, and advancement communications.
• Develops and strengthens relationships with alumni, corporate leaders, and external stakeholders to increase engagement, volunteerism, mentoring opportunities, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships.
• Represents the College with alumni, donors, corporations, professional organizations, advisory councils, and community partners to promote the mission, priorities, and visibility of the College.
• Monitors fundraising performance, prepares reports and advancement materials, maintains accurate donor records, and provides recommendations to support fundraising goals and strategic initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level