Manager, Alumni and Industry Engagement

ArtCenter College of Design•Pasadena, CA

2d•$65,000 - $70,000•Hybrid

About The Position

ArtCenter College of Design is searching for an experienced Manager, Alumni and Industry Engagement to join our team. The salary range for this position: $65,000.00 - 70,000.00. Final salary is based on education, experience, skills relevant to the role, and internal equity. About ArtCenter Founded in 1930 and located in Pasadena, California, ArtCenter College of Design is a global leader in art and design education and has had an international reputation for its rigorous, transdisciplinary curriculum, faculty of professionals, strong ties to industry, and commitment to socially responsible design. ArtCenter is a private nonprofit fully accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Every position at ArtCenter plays an important part in carrying out the cultural values, goals, strategic vision, and mission of the College. This includes upholding and cultivating an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Reporting to the director, Alumni and Industry Engagement, the manager, Alumni and Industry Engagement supports the development and execute strategic, institutional wide engagement programs for our global network of alumni and industry partners. The incumbent serves as a bridge between the College’s educational mission and the professional design, technology, entertainment, mobility, and creative industries that employ, mentor, and collaborate with ArtCenter and ArtCenter’s alumni community. This position is responsible for implementing programs and projects, both locally and internationally, that engage alumni and industry networks to strengthen support for the College through connections to an expansive worldwide alumni and industry network.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, business, or related field from an accredited college or institution; or any equivalent combination of training and experience
At least 3 years of experience in fields such as education, community relations, public relations, marketing, or related fields.
Demonstrated success in relationship-building, strategic partnerships, and cross-functional stakeholder engagement, including executive-level partners.
Experience planning high-level events and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Exceptional organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders
High level of discretion in handling confidential donor and financial information
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel); familiarity with Customer Relations Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge) preferred
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Demonstrated experience in cultivating an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment into workplace practices within ArtCenter’s diverse communities of faculty, staff, students and visitors
Ability to travel domestically and internationally
Excellent written and oral communication and negotiation skills; ability to translate complex academic, artistic, and technical concepts into language understandable by lay audiences
Ability to enforce, follow, and implement policies and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge database.
Working understanding of the higher education environment
Working knowledge of design programs such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Canva.
Experience with marketing tools, such as Eventbrite, Constant Contact or other online marketing and social media tools.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute alumni engagement programs and initiatives that strengthen relationships between the College and its alumni community, manage all aspects of event delivery including logistics, vendor coordination, registration, on-site support, and post-event follow-up for both in-person and virtual formats.
Coordinate industry partnership activities, including sponsored projects, employer engagement, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative College events.
Support cultivation and stewardship efforts by coordinating meetings, preparing briefing materials, tracking follow-up actions, and maintaining engagement with alumni, donors, and partners.
Maintain accurate alumni and partner records in CRM systems, including contact information, engagement history, meeting notes, and reporting data.
Develop and distribute communications materials—including newsletters, announcements, alumni highlights, and partnership updates—in collaboration with the director and Marketing and Communications.
Track program participation and engagement metrics, compile reports, and assist institutional research efforts related to alumni outcomes and ArtCenter education ROI.
Partner with internal departments—including Career Services, Academic Departments, and Admissions—to implement alumni and industry engagement initiatives effectively.
Collect and analyze alumni feedback to inform program strategy and communicate actionable insights to leadership.
Support regional, remote, and volunteer-led alumni and industry programming in key engagement markets, ensuring consistency and quality of experience.
In partnership with the director and Marketing and Communications, develop and promote alumni stories, career outcomes, and institutional impact across print, web, email, and social channels.
Contribute in shaping strategic messaging that communicates the long-term value and return on investment of an ArtCenter degree to alumni and external stakeholders.
Utilize engagement and outcomes data to inform marketing strategy and audience outreach in collaboration with Advancement Services, Advancement Communications, and Marketing Communications.
Manage day-to-day needs including event logistics and administrative support
Manage alumni communications, including email outreach, office visits, and general correspondence, delivering timely and professional engagement.
Track program budgets and timelines
Manage vendor sourcing, ensure timely completion of purchase orders and oversee payments, office logistics and administrative workflows
Participate in college committees, work groups, or task forces as assigned
Maintain memberships and support involvement in applicable professional organizations
Stay current on educational trends and best practices related to the division
Attend conferences and seminars
Enforce and follow all College policies, including safety protocols
Other duties as assigned