Assistant Director, Donor Relations

Radford University•Radford, VA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Donor Relations is a professional leader within Advancement and Alumni Relations, responsible for advancing Radford University’s culture of philanthropy through strategic stewardship leadership, disciplined data governance, and donor-centered engagement. This position ensures philanthropic investments entrusted to Radford are acknowledged accurately, administered with integrity and recognized in alignment with donor intent and university policy. The Assistant Director provides subject-matter expertise in stewardship standards, advising development officers and campus partners on donor compliance and recognition protocols. Operating with a high degree of professional judgment, this role leads the development and implementation of stewardship standards and workflows across the division, mitigating institutional risk related to donor stewardship, compliance, and recognition accuracy while strengthening donor retention and engagement. Reporting to the Sr. Director of Communications, Donor Relations and Special Events, this position supervises the Donor Relations & Stewardship Coordinator and works closely with other members of the team. The Assistant Director elevates stewardship from tactical execution to a structured, policy-aligned function grounded in accountability and consistency.

Requirements

Advanced degree from an accredited institution, or a bachelor’s degree with experience that equates to an advanced degree.
3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in donor relations, stewardship, advancement operations or related field.
Experience managing complex, deadline-driven projects.
Experience with CRM systems (Raiser's Edge preferred).
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Ability to interpret financial data and donor agreements accurately.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education advancement.
Scholarship or endowment stewardship experience.
Familiarity with Blackbaud Stewardship Management and Award Management.
Experience collaborating with academic, athletic and auxiliary units.

Responsibilities

Advance Radford University’s culture of philanthropy through strategic stewardship leadership, disciplined data governance, and donor-centered engagement.
Ensure philanthropic investments are acknowledged accurately, administered with integrity, and recognized in alignment with donor intent and university policy.
Provide subject-matter expertise in stewardship standards, advising development officers and campus partners on donor compliance and recognition protocols.
Lead the development and implementation of stewardship standards and workflows across the division.
Mitigate institutional risk related to donor stewardship, compliance, and recognition accuracy.
Strengthen donor retention and engagement.
Supervise the Donor Relations & Stewardship Coordinator.