Associate Director of Alumni Relations

Bradley University • Peoria, IL

24d

About The Position

Bradley University's Office of Alumni Relations is seeking a professional with strong organizational skills, a positive outlook, and a collaborative spirit to serve as Associate Director of Alumni Relations. This position works in close partnership with another associate director to advance the University's alumni engagement goals. While each manages distinct programs, the two collaborate regularly on shared initiatives that strengthen connections across the alumni community. With an externally facing portfolio, this role focuses on building connections through regional networks, including the Central Illinois (Peoria-centered) Regional Alumni Network, affinity groups, and volunteer leadership. The position requires an experienced event planner and manager who leads all aspects of program execution, from concept and communication to on-site coordination and post-event follow up. The ideal candidate demonstrates professionalism, creativity, and sound judgment while balancing multiple priorities. A collaborative mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to cultivate relationships with alumni volunteers are essential. The Associate Director reports to the Executive Director of Alumni Relations and works closely with Advancement colleagues, campus partners, and the Bradley University Alumni Association (BUAA).

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; minimum of three years of experience in higher education, alumni relations, event planning, or nonprofit management preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated success in planning and managing complex events.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
• Experience recruiting and supporting volunteers.
• Proficiency with digital communication tools, event management platforms, and social media strategy.
• Creative, adaptable, and collaborative approach.
• Availability for evening and weekend events.
• Position requires travel, typically averaging less than three days per month, to manage programs and developm alumni leaders in key markets, primarily in Chicago and other Midwest cities.
• Valid driver's license and ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Strengthen regional alumni networks, with emphasis on Peoria and Chicago, to increase engagement and volunteer participation.
• Manage alumni affinity groups, serving as staff liaison to group leaders and coordinating activities, communications, and university connections.
• Plan and manage all aspects of regional and affinity-based events, including vendor coordination, reservations, logistics, and post-event follow up.
• Lead event communication and marketing, including invitations, registration, and web content.
• Collaborate on campus initiatives such as Founder's Day, Homecoming, and the Presidential Rollout to ensure meaningful alumni participation.
• Track and report volunteer engagement and event metrics.
• Partner with University Marketing and Communications to grow social media engagement and increase followers of key alumni channels.
• Collaborate with Advancement colleagues to align alumni engagement with giving initiatives, including the role of regional and affinity groups in programs such as Day of Giving.
• Serve as staff liaison to assigned Alumni Association committees and support volunteer leadership initiatives.
• Evaluate program outcomes and contribute to planning and continuous improvement across alumni relations.

Benefits

• Bradley University offers a competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life and disability coverages, FSA, HSA, and retirement plan options.
• Bradley also offers significant higher education cost savings for employees and dependents through the Tuition Remission program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees