Associate Director of Foundation Relations

About the role

Penn State is currently seeking an Associate Director in the Office of Foundation Relations. This role is part of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR), contributing to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.

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;
• Aid faculty and staff in preparing and submitting proposals, 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree
• 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required Certifications: None

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills;
• Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of University and external representatives;
• Experience in fundraising and cultivating relationships with foundations;
• Knowledge of higher education and its funding landscape;
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team;
• Passion for higher education and a commitment to professional development.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage;
• Robust retirement plans;
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation, and sick time;
• A generous 75% tuition discount available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Pay

$72,300.00 - $108,444.00

Schedule

Not specified