Assistant Director, Stewardship & Donor Relations

University of Notre Dame • Notre Dame, IN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

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

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 from inquiry through installation and dedication, leads annual capital impact updates, plans and executes donor events, and oversees key stewardship communications. The position is located in South Bend, Indiana.

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 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 during peak operating periods.
• Proficiency with database software, including CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Authorization to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a higher education institution or complex nonprofit fundraising environment.
• Experience with program management and coordinating vendors or internal partners, 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 such as Landscaping Services from inquiry through installation and dedication.
• Provide flexible, high-level support across the unit during peak periods, including gift acknowledgments, endowment reporting, individualized donor communications, financial aid student thank-you note collection, and stewardship events.
• Manage the celebration events process and assist with 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.
• Develop and 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