Job Summary:
The Director of Alumni Affairs is responsible for implementing programs that engage alumni and provide benefits to WU alumni and students. The Director of Alumni Affairs is charged with securing commitments from alumni to provide professional expertise and volunteer service; collaborating with colleagues in the administrative offices (including, but not limited to Admissions, Development, Public Affairs and Student Engagement) and the divisions to create and maintain pathways for alumni participation that advance the goals of the Office of Institutional Advancement; partnering with Development colleagues to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward alumni giving; and serving as a liaison between the Alumni Association Board of Directors and the academic and administrative leadership.
The Director reports to Vice President of Institutional Advancement and works closely with alumni to cultivate interest and support for University programs and increase alumni giving. The Director is responsible for planning and organizing Alumni events and gatherings and engaging and sustaining Alumni efforts to further the mission of Wilberforce University. The Director will work closely with the President of the National Alumni Association to develop and implement a plan to increase Alumni giving.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
· Develop strategies to engage Wilberforce University Alumni in a life-long relationship with their alma mater, including the coordination of institutional traditions as Dawn Dance and the Homecoming Celebration
· Develop volunteer management strategies for the Alumni Affairs Office and maintain existing relationships through regular contact.
· Design and implement a program of events and activities to provide opportunities for Alumni to socialize, network, and learn about the University's mission and objectives.
· Develop targeted and creative strategies to market and promote events and activities to increase alumni attendance and participation.
· Work with members of the Development staff and other members of the Wilberforce Community to develop goals and strategies to advance all Alumni Affairs programs.
· Oversee all communications (print and electronic) from the alumni affair’s office.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, strong leadership skills.
· Ability to work with and command the respect of senior officers, trustees, and volunteers, excellent interpersonal, organizational, negotiation, and project management skills.
· Goal oriented, creative and open to new ideas.
· The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Minimum Qualifications
The ideal candidate should possess two to four years of professional experience in higher education. Minimum of two years of experience in alumni relations and external affairs with demonstrated accomplishment in fostering productive relationships with volunteers and developing volunteer leadership. Plus the following:
· Bachelor's degree required.
· Master's degree preferred.
· Experience with desktop and database applications including Raisers Edge is a plus.
· Demonstrated analytical and strategic thinking capabilities.
· Experience with Social Media, including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat.
