Assistant Director, Stewardship & Donor Relations

University of Notre Dame • Notre Dame, IN

2d • $60,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Development at the University of Notre Dame advances the University’s mission by engaging alumni, parents, and friends in philanthropy. The Stewardship & Donor Relations team partners with colleagues across the University to steward and cultivate donors through gift acknowledgments, annual reporting, impact communications, public and private recognition, and strategic donor relations work with fundraisers and major donors.

The Assistant Director serves as a stewardship generalist, supporting programs and units across the team. The role manages the University’s Memorial Tree & Bench Program, leads annual capital impact updates, plans and executes donor events, and oversees key stewardship communications. It also provides flexible support during peak periods for acknowledgments, reporting, individualized donor engagement, student thank-you notes, and events.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• At least 3 years of professional experience in development, donor relations, stewardship, communications, event planning, or higher education administration.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with high attention to detail and editing precision.
• Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-management skills, including the ability to interact professionally with high-level benefactors, faculty, and University leadership.
• Demonstrated organizational and project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously, particularly during peak operating periods.
• Proficiency with database software (CRM systems) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Authorization to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working within a higher education institution or complex nonprofit fundraising environment.
• Prior experience with program management and vendor or internal partner coordination, such as facilities or landscaping services.
• Experience organizing and executing high-touch, private donor recognition events.
• Deep understanding of and appreciation for the mission, values, and Catholic character of the University of Notre Dame.

Responsibilities

• Manage the University’s Memorial Tree & Bench Program, coordinating with benefactors and internal partners from inquiry through installation and dedication.
• Provide flexible, high-level support across the unit during peak periods.
• Assist with fiscal and calendar year-end gift acknowledgments, endowment reporting, individualized donor touches, financial aid student thank-you note collection, and stewardship events.
• Manage the celebration events process and assist with the execution of stewardship events, including high-touch dedications for the University’s most generous donors.
• Lead the annual capital impact update process to inform donors about the impact of their philanthropic support.
• Manage strategic stewardship communications, including the Stewardship Scoop and Grateful Gazette, and maintain content on stewardship.nd.edu.

What This Job Offers

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