The client Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations reports to the Principal and leads fundraising, alumni relations, and communications for the client. As a senior leader in the advancement function, the Director sets the direction for external relations and provides strategic guidance with an empowering leadership approach. The role focuses on relationship-building and connecting constituents to the client’s mission.
The Director leads all fundraising efforts, including capital campaigns and major, middle, and direct mail giving programs, and helps set and maintain the advancement budget. The role includes developing a legacy giving program and managing a roster of major donors to grow the major donor program. In addition, the Director supports congregational and denominational relations by building relationships with church and denomination leaders, connecting with donor culture, and sharing the client’s vision for supporting congregations.
The Director strengthens alumni relationships by developing connections with graduating students and supporting a broader alumni network across regions. The role also involves partnering with relevant internal teams to support church relations and serving as a lead team member in the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office. Responsibilities include overseeing communications and marketing materials and the creation and implementation of marketing plans, along with demonstrating strategic thinking, proven success in cultivation and solicitation, experience working with a governing board and committees, and an ability to lead and develop an advancement team, including volunteers. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience, and while professional fundraising affiliation and certification (such as CFRE or equivalent) and significant major gift experience are preferred, the role centers on relationship-building, public speaking confidence, strong interpersonal communication, and comfort with contemporary communication technologies.