Director of Foundation, Community and Government Engagement

LASELL UNIVERSITY•Newton, MA

6d•$105,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Lasell University seeks a strategic and relationship-driven Director of Foundation, Community, and Government Engagement to join our University Advancement team during a pivotal moment in our history. As we approach our 175th anniversary, Lasell is building on a legacy of innovation, resilience, and commitment to access and opportunity. Under the leadership of our 10th president, Eric M. Turner, the University is poised for meaningful advancement in its mission to provide exceptional education for all. In a time when higher education is undergoing rapid change, Lasell is navigating these shifts with creativity and care, positioning itself as a forward-thinking partner in the region and beyond. This role blends traditional grant writing with proactive funder and community engagement, helping to elevate Lasell’s visibility and impact. The Director will play a key role in cultivating relationships with foundations, industry partners, civic organizations, and government entities to secure philanthropic support and foster strategic collaboration. You’ll be part of a mission-driven, collaborative team that values initiative, creativity, and adaptability. We work hard because we believe deeply in Lasell’s purpose and the impact we can make together. Our team is grounded in mutual support, shared goals, and a culture that celebrates progress. We know that sustainable success depends on building meaningful, strategic relationships with alumni and external partners whose engagement helps advance our mission and expand our reach. If you bring energy, professionalism, and a sense of humor—and you're excited to connect with others to support a vital institution—we’d love to meet you.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of five years of experience in foundation, industry, or government relations, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sectors.
Demonstrated success in securing philanthropic support and managing donor relationships.
Strong grant writing and proposal development skills.
Exceptional interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge/NXT) is a plus.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned professional who enjoys working in a fast paced, team environment.
Being a well-organized, personable professional with strong initiative and great communication skills are also necessary for success.
Applicants with a bachelor's degree or master's degree (preferred) also need a minimum of five years of grant writing or community engagement experience.
Ability to adapt one's communication styles, approaches, and skills in a manner that reflects an appreciation for, and commitment to, our increasingly diverse workplace and alumni community.
Ability to exercise exceptional discretion, confidentiality and judgment in dealing with sensitive issues.
Strong working knowledge of computers and proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, familiarity with Raiser’s Edge/NXT a plus.
Must be able to work some evenings and weekends and travel, as appropriate.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage a portfolio of foundation, industry, and government partners, cultivating relationships to identify funding opportunities aligned with institutional priorities.
Implement solicitation strategies to secure philanthropic support through grants, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships.
Engage in proactive stewardship by maintaining regular communication with funders, providing impact updates, and coordinating recognition opportunities.
Maintain a funding pipeline by researching and tracking prospective donors and partners and aligning outreach with institutional initiatives.
Collaborate with faculty and university leadership to develop compelling cases for support and funding proposals.
Identify, cultivate, and help source volunteer leadership—including members of the Board of Trustees and academic advisory boards—to strengthen Lasell’s external partnerships, institutional visibility, and strategic engagement with key constituencies.
Supervise a part-time grants administrator, providing guidance and oversight to ensure effective grant management and administration.
Represent Lasell at community events, civic meetings, and government briefings to promote institutional initiatives and gather feedback.
Build and maintain strong relationships with local residents, businesses, elected officials, and community leaders.
Monitor legislative developments and advocate for Lasell’s strategic goals with key stakeholders.
Foster open communication and mutual understanding between the university and its surrounding neighborhoods.