Carnegie Mellon is enjoying its most productive fundraising years in its history, raising more than $950M over the last three years. University Advancement (UA) supports the entire CMU community in building relationships with key constituencies and securing the financial resources the university needs to continue its ascent. As the division grows, we are seeking an associate director, Annual Giving (University Initiatives). This is an exciting opportunity if you thrive in an interesting and challenging work environment. Reporting to the executive director, Annual Giving, you will be responsible for developing, implementing and reporting on institution-wide annual giving initiatives for all CMU affiliates. Collaboration across internal teams will be essential to create strategy and reach goals.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Working with the Annual Giving and Advancement Communications and Marketing management team, as well as colleagues across University Advancement, to develop and implement a comprehensive communication, solicitation and reporting plan for institution-wide fundraising initiatives including, but not limited to, Giving Tuesday, Reunion, and Next Generation Philanthropy.
• Working closely with staff across the Office of Annual Giving, focusing on data improvements, A/B testing, segment recommendations and effective reporting to internal stakeholders.
• Tracking and reporting progress on the implementation plan using metrics to reach goals for alumni participation and annual philanthropic support; continually adjusting the plan based on analysis. Preparing fundraising reports and communications about results for donors, volunteers, partners and management.
• Collaborating with multiple internal stakeholders on the entire solicitation process, from creating content to delivering results.
• Coordinating updates to website, social media channels, e-newsletters and other Annual Giving communications in partnership with Advancement Communications and Marketing partners.
• Keeping current on programs, faculty, research and student initiatives at the university. Networking with advancement colleagues, college liaisons, and staff, administrators and faculty across the university when necessary. Networking externally to understand best practices within the field.
• Other duties as assigned.

Passion, excellence and flexibility are vital qualities within University Advancement. A commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion; collaboration; and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You should demonstrate:

• The ability to:
  • interact effectively within the University Advancement division, as well as with other members of the campus community and external constituents
  • communicate with prospects/donors in an appropriate manner in written, oral and personal communication
  • handle confidential donor information and make good decisions regarding use of such information
  • maintain composure when dealing with difficult situations and/or individuals
  • meet deadlines
  • work under pressure and with frequent interruptions
  • pay close attention to detail
  • keep and maintain accurate and detailed reports and records
  • prioritize work and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
  • understand and follow directions
  • work well with others and/or as part of a team
• Demonstrated analytical, communication and problem-solving skills

You should be able to travel domestically and be willing to work outside of normal business hours as needed.

Qualifications 

• A bachelor’s degree is required
• Three to five years of experience, preferably within a university/non-profit setting; One year of managerial experience is preferred
• Must possess strong persuasive writing and editing skills with an attention to detail
• Strong project management skills with the ability to oversee existing vendor relationships to meet deadlines
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Previous CRM experience is preferred

Requirements

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and successfully complete a driver’s license verification on an annual basis. Must complete the National Safety Council Defensive Driver Training once every three years
• Successful background check

CMU’s COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements: As a condition of employment, Carnegie Mellon University requires all staff and faculty working in the United States to be fully vaccinated, including a booster when eligible, against COVID-19. Prior to commencement of employment, new hires in the United States must provide proof of vaccination or obtain an approved exemption. (Exemptions may be requested for medical reasons or for religious or strong moral or ethical conviction.) Staff and faculty must comply with all applicable COVID-19 mitigation requirements. Please see Minimum Requirements to Return to Campus for details regarding the university’s current COVID-19 mitigation requirements.