Associate Director, Donor Relations

University of Akron•Akron, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for managing donor relations program for the Division of Advancement. Design, coordinate and implement comprehensive donor relations strategic plans and processes, including donor and recognition events, marketing, working with development officers on individualized donor and gift recognition plans, as well as other initiatives to recognize and engage donors.

Requirements

Requires a relevant bachelor's degree.
Candidates must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

A minimum of two (2) years of experience in fundraising or special event planning is preferred, ideally within a higher education setting.
Other relevant experience will also be considered, such as sales or customer service.

Responsibilities

Create, implement and manage donor recognition events and initiatives to enhance Advancement's overall engagement goals and ensure donors are recognized appropriately and in a timely manner.
Collaborate with University Branding Office (or equivalent division) and Advancement colleagues to develop and execute donor and gift communication strategies and plans, including articles, stories, reports and videos, for acknowledgment and recognition purposes. Direct the development and implementation of donor communications in multiple mediums and in a timely fashion, including, but not limited to, social media sites, Advancement's website and e-blasts.
Collaborate with the Director, Stewardship to establish, implement and monitor policies and procedures for donor recognition, including naming protocols, donor loyalty programs and other initiatives to ensure appropriate and consistent recognition of donor and gifts. This position will also oversee adherence to the department’s acknowledgment process by developing and maintaining a reporting mechanism to verify compliance and ensure standards are consistently met.
Manage a portfolio of alumni and friends who require ongoing donor relations and stewardship activities and reporting.
Establish parameters and maintain data to monitor impact of donor relations activities.
Assist with special and ongoing projects for the Director, Stewardship and the Vice President, Advancement, and other duties as assigned.

Benefits

medical
dental
vision
short and long-term disability
life insurance
paid leave of absences including time off for illness, vacation, and maternity or paternity leave
tuition remission
Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA)
state retirement systems
alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions
deferred compensation programs (403(b) and 457(b))