The Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive strategy to engage alumni and increase charitable giving to Ohio Northern University. This role will have complete oversight of alumni engagement and annual giving, managing both functional areas. The Executive Director will work closely with advancement leadership, alumni, donors, and campus partners to build lasting relationships and enhance fundraising efforts. With a focus on securing private support for ONU, the Executive Director will lead a team to strategically plan, coordinate, and manage an alumni engagement and annual giving program that is in accordance with the fundraising priorities of Ohio Northern University. The position is integral to the University’s broader advancement goals, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities while fostering a vibrant, engaged alumni community; ultimately ensuring a robust donor pipeline.

Principle Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:
Lead the development and execution of alumni engagement and annual giving strategies in alignment with university goals. Advise on campaign strategies and collaborate with senior leadership.

Alumni Engagement:
Oversee alumni engagement initiatives to build meaningful connections, encourage participation, and increase giving. Represent the University at events, serve on relevant committees, and foster external relationships.

Annual Giving Program:
Manage multi-channel fundraising campaigns (direct mail, digital, social media, crowdfunding, etc.) to increase donor participation and revenue. Set annual goals, develop solicitation strategies, and recognize donors through tailored events and programs. Collaborate on marketing and maintain a donor portfolio.

Team Leadership:
Lead and mentor staff, promoting a results-driven culture and continuous improvement in alumni engagement and giving.

Donor Relations & Stewardship:
Cultivate key alumni and donor relationships, ensure consistent stewardship, and support major gift identification.

Data-Driven Decision Making:
Use analytics to guide strategy, measure effectiveness, and report on outcomes. Partner with IT and Advancement staff for reporting and insights.

Collaboration with Leadership:
Advise University leadership on alumni and giving trends, ensuring alignment with broader institutional goals.

Budget Management:
Oversee budgets for engagement and giving programs, ensuring cost-effective operations.

Other Duties:
Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

Required Skills:

• Direct experience with annual giving and emerging technology platforms.
• Direct experience with alumni engagement, including the planning and execution of events and meaningful engagement opportunities.
• Ability to self-initiate problem-solving through the identification and exploration of issues.
• Outstanding written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability and commitment to travel and attend evening and weekend events as required.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Five or more years of similar work experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in alumni engagement, annual giving, or a related field, with a track record of success in leading comprehensive fundraising and engagement programs.
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans that drive alumni engagement and increase annual giving participation.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage a diverse alumni base.
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices and a deep understanding of donor engagement, stewardship, and solicitation strategies.
• Experience using data and analytics to inform decision-making and measure program success.
• Familiarity with higher education culture and the unique needs and interests of university alumni.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with senior University leadership to achieve goals.
• Experience utilizing cloud-based fundraising and donor management software, like Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT and GiveCampus.

To view full description and apply online go to:  https://jobs.onu.edu/postings/13575

ONU is an equal employment opportunity employer. Accordingly, no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, transgender status, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all areas of employment including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, separation and other terms, condition and privileges of employment.