Development Programs Coordinator

About the role

Auburn Advancement is searching for a Development Programs Coordinator to join a dynamic, relationship-driven team. You’ll help create impactful programs, meaningful donor experiences, and fundraising initiatives that advance Auburn University’s mission and future.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute development programs, services, fundraising initiatives, and special events.
• Plan and organize logistics such as venue setup, speaker selection, travel arrangements, and vendor or contractual needs to ensure seamless execution and meaningful engagement opportunities.
• Support strategic fundraising efforts by assisting with the development and management of fundraising initiatives and donor engagement strategies that align with Auburn University’s philanthropic priorities.
• Ensure programs and services operate effectively and within budget expectations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, prospects, volunteers, and constituents through ongoing communication, stewardship efforts, and personalized engagement opportunities.
• Identify and cultivate prospective donors by conducting research and outreach to recommend individuals, corporations, and foundations with potential to support Auburn University through philanthropy or volunteer involvement.
• Manage communications and marketing efforts, including the development of materials such as brochures, newsletters, website content, presentations, and news releases that highlight Auburn’s impact and engagement opportunities.
• Plans, develops, or assists in the execution of programs, services, and fundraisers.
• Coordinates, plans, and organizes events, including activities such as set-up, selecting speakers, and negotiating contractual obligations for resources and logistical considerations.
• Monitors and may develop program or service budgets to ensure operations remain within specifications.
• Prepares itineraries and makes travel arrangements for individuals involved in related development programs and services.
• Creates and maintains records of prospects, contacts, and constituents.
• Provides information to staff, students, and constituents regarding Auburn University development issues through presentations, inquiries, or written communications.
• May develop and oversee marketing functions for assigned development programs, including brochures, newsletters, websites, and news releases.
• Receives and resolves inquiries and problems.
• Creates and maintains donor relations, solicitation, and development processes.

The role is highly externally focused, requiring frequent travel and meetings on and off campus during regular and non-traditional business hours. It operates with high levels of autonomy.

Qualifications

• Development Programs Coordinator I: Bachelor’s degree.
• Development Programs Coordinator II: Bachelor’s degree plus 2 years of experience in public relations work and general office operations or a Master’s degree.
• Development Programs Coordinator III: Bachelor’s degree plus 4 years of experience in public relations work and general office operations or a Master’s degree plus 2 years of experience in public relations work and general office operations.

Contract type: Continuing.

Benefits

• Life-Changing Impact: Work that changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach.
• Culture of Excellence: Commitment to leveraging strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• Support and Balance: Generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support for work/life balance.
• Location: Southern charm of the Auburn/Opelika area, with vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• Inclusivity: A welcoming environment where all faculty, staff, and students are valued, respected, and engaged.