Assistant Director of Donor Relations and Stewardship

About the role

The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine is seeking an Assistant Director of Donor Relations and Stewardship to develop and implement strategic donor relations and stewardship plans.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic donor relations and stewardship plans that align with college and foundation priorities and support long-term donor retention and growth.
• Collaborate with advancement leadership to craft compelling language and messaging, stewardship communications, impact reporting, and broader engagement initiatives.
• Plan and execute in-person and virtual donor events both on campus and regionally, ensuring a high-quality, mission-aligned donor experience.
• Coordinate donor meetings on and off campus, supporting donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts.
• Manage the creation, production, and distribution of stewardship reports and donor communications that clearly articulate the impact of philanthropic support.
• Serve as a key resource to the CVM philanthropy team and university stewardship office to ensure coordinated and consistent donor engagement practices.
• Collaborate in broader strategic planning efforts to strengthen donor and volunteer engagement across the college.
• Oversee and enhance signature recognition programs, including the Walk of Honor and Gallop of Honor, ensuring effective program management and continued relevance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Experience & Strategic Stewardship: Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in nonprofit development or higher education advancement, with a proven track record of designing, implementing, and scaling innovative donor engagement and stewardship strategies.
• Communication & Impact Storytelling: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with expertise in developing donor-centered messaging, impact reporting, and digital engagement materials to foster long-term donor relationships.
• Event & Project Management: Demonstrated ability to lead complex, signature donor events and experiential engagement initiatives from concept to execution, managing multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment.
• Data & Technical Proficiency: Expert proficiency in CRM systems and advancement databases, including the ability to manage donor data, interpret metrics, and utilize digital marketing platforms to drive engagement and reporting.
• Leadership & Stakeholder Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills with experience collaborating with senior leadership, faculty, and external stakeholders, including supervisory or project leadership experience within a complex organizational structure.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more!