Associate Director of Stewardship Operations, Wharton External Affairs

University of Pennsylvania•Philadelphia, PA

8d•$65,628 - $72,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Wharton School, founded in 1881, is the world's first collegiate business school, dedicated to shaping the future of business through innovation, insight, and leadership development. With campuses in Philadelphia and San Francisco, Wharton boasts a large staff, renowned faculty, and a diverse student body across various programs. Wharton External Affairs is the primary point of contact for alumni, friends, and partners, fostering engagement and philanthropic partnerships. The Associate Director of Stewardship Operations is a key member of the Donor Relations team within Wharton External Affairs, reporting to the Stewardship Director. This role requires an analytical and process-driven individual with expertise in fundraising, donor relations systems, and operations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and 2 to 3 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 2-3 years of experience in fundraising and development processes, preferably with involvement in stewardship and donor relations.
Exceptional research, analytical, and execution skills.
Ability to engage with colleagues to learn about current activities and future needs to adapt systems and processes.
Comfort analyzing data and utilizing it to inform strategy and operations.
Outstanding detail orientation and perseverance in managing long-term fund audits.
Ability to build relationships with colleagues across departments and navigate a complex environment of stakeholders.
High level of discretion with respect for sensitive data and best practices in safeguarding donor information.
Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as effectively as a member of a team.
Excellent project management and strategic planning skills.
Ability to manage and meet multiple deadlines and track activities in a fast-paced, high volume environment.
Occasional evening and weekend work and travel are required to support alumni and donor events.

Responsibilities

Analyze current donor relations activities and processes to identify opportunities for efficiency and enhancement, particularly for donor impact reports, acknowledgments, and letters of gratitude.
Audit existing funds, maintain refreshed records, and account for newly created and amended endowed and term donor funds for Wharton's various funds, supporting stewardship reporting, analytics, outreach, and efficiency.
Collaborate with Principal Gift and Development colleagues, as well as research program colleagues, to gather, update, and disseminate fund information, ensuring an optimal donor experience while adhering to University privacy standards.
Assess donor relations activities across different giving levels and School areas to identify opportunities for enhanced donor stewardship that inspires continued giving.
Write gift acknowledgments and impact reports during peak periods and for high-volume support areas like student aid and faculty support.
Stay informed about University and industry best practices in donor relations operations and processes, and liaise with University colleagues on optimal uses of the donor database and other platforms.
Apply understanding of various giving types (principal, major, corporate, foundation) to supported processes and advice.
Balance in-depth focus on individual donors with a broad approach to various donor audiences, aligning with the School's fundraising priorities.
Engage as a member of the Donor Relations team, exchanging information and insights with colleagues to enhance the donor experience and foster continuous learning and connection.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses.
Tuition assistance for employees, spouses, and dependent children at Penn.
Tuition assistance for dependent children at other institutions.
Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, Supplemental) with pre-tax or Roth options and investment choices through TIAA and Vanguard.
Substantial time away from work for relaxation, vacations, personal affairs, illness, or family time.
Long-Term Care Insurance through Genworth Financial.
A variety of programs and resources to support health, family, and work-life balance.
Resources for professional and personal development.
Access to a wide range of University resources, cultural activities, and recreational facilities.
Discounts on arts and entertainment, transportation, mortgages, goods, and services.
Flexible work options including non-traditional work hours, locations, and job structures.
Forgivable loan for eligible employees interested in buying a home or residing in West Philadelphia.
Adoption assistance for eligible employees for qualified expenses related to legal adoption.