Director of Development, Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications

Director of Development, Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications

Have you got what it takes to succeed The following information should be read carefully by all candidates.Penn State is currently seeking a strong leader and top frontline fundraiser in the role of Director of Development and Alumni Relations to engage alumni and friends as partners in supporting the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications. 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.

The University is committed to ensuring that diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are central to the success of a world-class research institution. We are dedicated to fostering an institutional culture supporting the University’s core values, with inclusion being a fundamental strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

Charged with guiding and overseeing all development and alumni relations activities for the college’s high-potential constituencies, this position reports directly to an Assistant Vice President for University Development and receives direction from college leadership on fundraising objectives and priorities. The Director of Development and Alumni Relations also works with other partners across the University and central development offices. With significant experience not only in fundraising but also in management, and with an entrepreneurial and ambitious vision for the Bellisario College of Communications’ fundraising operation, the Director of Development and Alumni Relations will:

Articulate Penn State’s and the college’s needs, ambitions, and values, including diversity, equity, and inclusion, through excellent informal and formal communications, including written proposals;

Identify a pool and a pipeline of prospects for immediate and long-term cultivation;

Supervise, train, and mentor a team of fundraisers, alumni relations professionals, and support staff, with a sustained focus on fostering inclusive relationships that yield meaningful results;

Develop annual goals, plans, and budgets for a comprehensive, strategy-driven fundraising program;

Recruit and guide a diversely representative volunteer committee charged with meaningful roles and responsibilities in the fundraising process;

Manage a portfolio of top prospects and plan and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts;

Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue these strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to a fixed and appropriately aggressive set of fundraising metrics;

Serve as an ambassador for the college and its priorities and values.

This position typically requires a bachelor’s degree or higher and 8+ years of relevant experience, including 3+ years of supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The successful candidate will also have:

A track record of success in securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals;

A dedication to and understanding of the skills required to build relationships with diverse communities;

Demonstrated knowledge of diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education;

Experience in managing and leading goal-oriented teams and in planning development strategies;

Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills, with a particular sensitivity to sophisticated, high-net worth audiences;

Impeccable writing, presentation skills, and ability to use various technologies;

A passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions;

A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored.

Operation of a motor vehicle as part of the position’s duties and a valid driver's license are required. Successful completion of a motor vehicle records check, in addition to standard background checks, is also required.

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.

Salary Range:

$109,300.00 - $164,000.00

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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