Job Location: Fisk University - Nashville, TN

Description

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Vice President of Development and Alumni Affairs, the Associate Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations serves as the primary point of contact between the university and external corporate and foundation partners. This role is pivotal in fostering strategic relationships that enhance funding opportunities, support university initiatives,

and advance institutional goals. The Associate Director will lead efforts to cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with corporate and foundation stakeholders to secure resources for research, scholarships, and community engagement programs in close partnership with the Vice President.

Essential Functions:

Develop and maintain strong relationships with corporate and foundation partners to identify funding opportunities aligned with university priorities.
Collaborate with university leadership to create and implement a comprehensive corporate and foundation engagement strategy.
Prepare and submit funding proposals and grants, ensuring alignment with university goals and compliance with funding requirements - including recap reports and grant reporting.
Manage donor relations through effective communication, reporting, and recognition programs to enhance engagement and support.
Work closely with faculty, researchers, and administrative staff to identify funding needs and opportunities within various departments.
Research and analyze trends in corporate and foundation giving to inform engagement strategies and identify potential partners.
Schedule and conduct regular and strategically planned calls and face-to-face visits with corporate and foundation contacts to solicit major gifts
Schedule and conduct regular and strategically planned calls and face-to-face visits with corporate and foundation contacts to solicit major gifts
Prepare written proposals, concept and informational materials, presentations, and other materials needed to secure corporate and foundation investment

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders - internal and external to Fisk University.
Strong analytical skills to develop and implement strategies that align with university objectives.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining quality.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in crafting compelling proposals and presentations. (Experience writing grants and term completion reports.)

Knowledge of fundraising principles and practices, particularly in corporate and foundation philanthropy.
Proficient in networking and building partnerships within the corporate sector and philanthropic community.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively with academic leadership, faculty, prospects, donors, and/or volunteers in a wide range of roles
Complex problem-solving skills coupled with the ability to conduct research, gather data, analyze information, and prepare effective, accurate, and timely reports and other documents to support development objectives
Strong knowledge and understanding of database management
Ability to exercise good judgment, to demonstrate an understanding of ethics

related to development activities, and to use discretion in interactions with donors, prospects, volunteers, and others

Highly developed verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present effectively to small and large groups
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
Experience working in Blackbaud products - Raiser's Edge is preferred

Qualifications

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree
Desired Experience:
- 4 years+ of experience in corporate relations, fundraising, or development within the nonprofit space (preferably higher education)
- Proven track record of successfully securing funding from corporate and foundation sources.
- Strong experience with grant writing and reporting.
- Experience in project management and strategic planning.

Fisk University

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Associate Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations