Associate Director of Foundation Relations

Penn State University • University Park, PA

39d

About The Position

Penn State is currently seeking an Associate Director in the Office of Foundation Relations. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR), you can play an integral role in Penn State's future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country. Reporting to the Executive Director of Foundation Relations and working closely with other development and alumni relations colleagues, academic partners, and research administration staff, this Associate Director will: Serve as primary liaison to the colleges of Earth and Mineral Sciences, Engineering, and Information Sciences & Technology; Engage in annual and periodic strategic planning discussions with University representatives including deans, chancellors, department/institute heads, faculty, and development colleagues to identify and develop plans to identify, cultivate, and solicit major and principal gift foundation prospects; Assist faculty and staff in preparing and submitting, ensuring alignment with foundation priorities and in collaboration with the Office of Sponsored Programs, with a goal of securing $1,000,000 or more in annual commitments; Proactively cultivate and solicit new and existing funders and maintain a strong prospect pool that aligns with University priorities; Interface and build fruitful relationships with foundation officers and between foundation officers and Penn State representatives; Prepare briefing materials and coordinate meetings (virtual or in-person) between foundation program staff and deans, chancellors, department heads, faculty, and/or development colleagues as part of ongoing cultivation and stewardship efforts; Determine annual foundation goal setting solicitation targets with college and/or campus partners; Develop and recommend strategies to guide collaborative interdisciplinary projects and proposal preparation with development and university-wide colleagues. DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Requirements

• A track record of success in securing foundation support and meeting annual fundraising goals
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
• The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
• Demonstrated ability to build internal and external relationships and work collaboratively with a wide range of University and external representatives to effectively complete complex work assignments, review progress, and evaluate results
• A passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions
• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team
• A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored
• Bachelor's Degree
• 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary liaison to the colleges of Earth and Mineral Sciences, Engineering, and Information Sciences & Technology
• Engage in annual and periodic strategic planning discussions with University representatives including deans, chancellors, department/institute heads, faculty, and development colleagues to identify and develop plans to identify, cultivate, and solicit major and principal gift foundation prospects
• Assist faculty and staff in preparing and submitting, ensuring alignment with foundation priorities and in collaboration with the Office of Sponsored Programs, with a goal of securing $1,000,000 or more in annual commitments
• Proactively cultivate and solicit new and existing funders and maintain a strong prospect pool that aligns with University priorities
• Interface and build fruitful relationships with foundation officers and between foundation officers and Penn State representatives
• Prepare briefing materials and coordinate meetings (virtual or in-person) between foundation program staff and deans, chancellors, department heads, faculty, and/or development colleagues as part of ongoing cultivation and stewardship efforts
• Determine annual foundation goal setting solicitation targets with college and/or campus partners
• Develop and recommend strategies to guide collaborative interdisciplinary projects and proposal preparation with development and university-wide colleagues

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees