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Penn State University · 1 month ago

Associate Director of Foundation Relations

University Park, PA

Full-time

Hybrid

Senior Level, Lead/Staff, Director/Executive

$68K/yr - $102K/yr

6+ years exp

Penn State University is seeking an Associate Director in the Office of Foundation Relations, contributing to a successful fundraising and alumni relations operation. The role involves liaising with various colleges, cultivating relationships with foundations, and developing strategic plans to secure major gifts.

Higher Education

No H1B

Responsibilities

Serve as primary liaison to the colleges of Earth and Mineral Sciences, Engineering, and Information Sciences & Technology

Engage in annual and periodic strategic planning discussions with University representatives including deans, chancellors, department/institute heads, faculty, and development colleagues to identify and develop plans to identify, cultivate, and solicit major and principal gift foundation prospects

Assist faculty and staff in preparing and submitting, ensuring alignment with foundation priorities and in collaboration with the Office of Sponsored Programs, with a goal of securing $1,000,000 or more in annual commitments

Proactively cultivate and solicit new and existing funders and maintain a strong prospect pool that aligns with University priorities

Interface and build fruitful relationships with foundation officers and between foundation officers and Penn State representatives

Prepare briefing materials and coordinate meetings (virtual or in-person) between foundation program staff and deans, chancellors, department heads, faculty, and/or development colleagues as part of ongoing cultivation and stewardship efforts

Determine annual foundation goal setting solicitation targets with college and/or campus partners

Develop and recommend strategies to guide collaborative interdisciplinary projects and proposal preparation with development and university-wide colleagues

Qualification

Foundation fundraisingStrategic planningRelationship buildingInterpersonal skillsCommunication skillsProfessional developmentInclusivityHigher education knowledgeTeam collaborationSelf-motivation

Required

Bachelor's Degree

6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

A track record of success in securing foundation support and meeting annual fundraising goals

Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills

The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues

Demonstrated ability to build internal and external relationships and work collaboratively with a wide range of University and external representatives to effectively complete complex work assignments, review progress, and evaluate results

A passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions

A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team

A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored