Director of Donor Relations

Director of Donor Relations

Department: Donor Relations

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Purdue for Life Foundation

Description

Working for the Purdue For Life Foundation offers a unique opportunity to be part of an organization dedicated to empowering Purdue University alumni and fostering a lifelong connection to the institution. By joining our team, you'll have the chance to contribute to a mission that supports educational initiatives, scholarships, and programs that positively impact the lives of Purdue students and graduates. The Foundation's commitment to education and community engagement provides a fulfilling work environment where you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the broader community. Additionally, you'll have access to a network of passionate colleagues and the resources needed to drive positive change, making the Purdue For Life Foundation an inspiring and rewarding place to build your career. Your next giant leap starts here. Apply today!

Essential Functions

• Plan and oversee programs for effective donor relations and stewardship in one or more aspects of recognition, acknowledgements, reporting, and experience (RARE) to further engage donors and prospects.
• Develop goals, strategies, tactics, and metrics to implement and measure donor relations and stewardship programs in collaboration with internal/external stakeholders.
• Lead and manage team members and colleagues through strategic touchpoints that show gratitude, enhance the donor experience, and inspire future gifts.
• Provide guidance and support to ensure processes associated with donor relations and stewardship programs and activities represent best-in-class industry practices.
• Research, write, and proof a variety of donor communications, template letters, impact statements, and other interpersonal communications to reflect excellence in keeping with the organizations voice, tone, and brand standards.
• Serve as a resource for colleagues and donors on development-related issues, requests, visits, etc. based on the donor's expectations and wishes.
• Ensure effective and accurate records maintenance in Ascend/Salesforce, including timely fulfillment of donor and contact reports and deliverables.
• Collaborate and coordinate productively with internal departments, such as Special Events, Marketing Communications, Broad-Based Campaigns, President's Council, and others.
• Respond to donor inquiries with accurate and timely information.
• Additional functional duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in team meetings and collaborative work groups.
• Identify, define, and develop improvements to processes, workflows, and outcomes in collaboration with partners across the department and campus.
• Always demonstrate sound judgement and decision-making skills.
• Participate in PFLF Develop U activities and continuing professional development opportunities.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Strong interpersonal, presentation, and communication skills
• Ability to always represent the University with tact and diplomacy.
• Strong professional ethics are required.
• Sound judgment, initiative, and ability to collaborate effectively.
• Excellent relationship building, organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to continuously improve professional competency through experience in the role and professional development opportunities.
• Demonstrate competency in Microsoft Office, with a focus on Microsoft Excel, Ascend/Salesforce (CRM), and networked informational systems used within the Purdue for Life Foundation.
• Thrive in a team environment with strong attention to detail and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Some evening and weekend work required.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Requirements and Benefits

• Bachelors Degree is required.
• Minimum of six years' experience in donor relations required.

Benefits Summary for eligible employees:

• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Accrue up to 22 vacation days a year.
• Traditional pre-tax 403(b) and Roth retirement plans available.
• 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan and immediate vesting.
• Health Savings Account- earn up to $450 annually towards medical expenses.
• Employer funded Preventative Dental and Vision insurance.
• Tuition discounts on eligible programs at Purdue University and Purdue Global for qualified employees, spouses, and dependents.