Assistant Dean for Alumni Affairs and Development, Brooks School of Public Policy
About The Position
Cornell University is seeking an Assistant Dean for Alumni Affairs & Development for the Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy. This role is a key opportunity for an experienced fundraiser to contribute to the growth of a new school within Cornell. The Assistant Dean will serve as the chief development officer, partnering with the Dean to advance strategic priorities through philanthropy, alumni engagement, and donor stewardship. The position is part of a collaborative development support model designed to enhance fundraising success through shared expertise and resources. While this role does not have direct reports, it emphasizes leadership through influence, partnership, and strategic vision, acting as a trusted advisor to the Dean.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree and 7–10 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience.
- Demonstrated success securing major and principal gifts and managing complex donor relationships.
- Proven ability to develop and execute fundraising strategies that achieve ambitious goals.
- Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across a complex organization.
- Experience serving as a strategic partner to senior leaders, executives, or academic leadership.
- Ability to thrive in a highly collaborative environment and contribute to a shared-services approach.
- Commitment to fostering inclusive environments and working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the development expert for the Brooks School, providing strategic leadership for fundraising and alumni engagement.
- Partner with the Dean to advance the school's priorities and strengthen philanthropic support.
- Help shape the future growth of a young and rapidly evolving school.
- Manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects capable of making significant investments in the future of the Brooks School.
- Develop and execute donor strategies that result in meaningful philanthropic support and long-term engagement.
- Build and strengthen relationships with alumni, donors, volunteers, and university partners.
- Work closely with a dedicated team of development professionals specializing in alumni engagement, major gifts, operations, and administrative support.
- Partner with peer chief development officers and colleagues across Cornell to maximize fundraising outcomes and organizational effectiveness.
- Contribute to the continued evolution of a collaborative development support model designed for long-term success.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health care options
- Generous retirement contributions
- Access to wellness programs
- Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
- Health and personal leave
- Three weeks of vacation
- 13 holidays (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1)
- Two additional floating holidays
- Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
- Tuition aid for external education
- Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
