Special Instructions to Applicants: 

All interested applicants please attach a cover letter and resume in PDF format.

Position Summary:

Rice University is seeking a dynamic and organized individual to join the Alumni Relations team in the Development and Alumni Relations division as Associate Director, Alumni Networks (Schools and Units). This role is fundamental in a transition toward a more service-model approach, aimed at enhancing our alumni networks through strategic integration with academic and professional schools/units within the university. This position will report to the Senior Director, Alumni Relations and will work alongside a team engaging our regional and affinity networks.   

The ideal candidate is a self-starter with a positive attitude and professional demeanor who is able to cultivate meaningful relationships while simultaneously coordinating multiple projects.

Workplace Requirements 

Must possess (or have the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) and maintain a valid Texas driver’s license with no more than three moving violations and/or at fault accidents within the past 36 months, and no convictions or deferred dispositions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) within the past five years.

Minimum Requirements: 

Bachelor’s Degree In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted 3+ years of professional experience in alumni relations, development, or a related field In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted

Skills: 

Proven track record of building relationships and developing strategic partnerships Ability to develop and initiate new strategies Advanced problem-solving skills Exceptional verbal and written communications skills and interpersonal skills, with a focus on strategy and relationship building Demonstrated ability to engage with senior academic and administrative leaders, including Deans, with professionalism and confidence Adept at articulating complex ideas, negotiating on behalf of alumni interests, and representing the alumni network’s objectives Ability to work well under pressure and manage projects simultaneously Strong organizational and time management skills Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office suite Advanced data analysis skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet expected deadlines and schedules Adept at problem solving, creating contingency plans and handling issues when necessary Excellent client service orientation Advanced attention to detail Ability to quickly understand and remember details about alumni/donors and projects to which they are assigned

Preferences:

Advanced degree preferred 4+ years of professional experience in alumni relations, development, or a related field Experience working in nonprofit/higher education settings Experience using Blackbaud CRM or similar alumni/donor database system Experience in a PC/Windows environment using Microsoft Office

Essential Functions:

Develop and strengthen the alumni network by fostering connections between alumni and their respective schools/units Collaborate with school-based major gift officers and Deans to align efforts and maximize the impact of existing partnerships Plan and execute strategic programming for the three largest schools/units, while engaging in exploratory dialogues with other schools/units Support the Senior Director, Alumni Relations in strategic planning and execution of alumni initiatives, including the development of programs, events and communications, ensuring seamless implementation of strategies and addressing operational issues that arise Coordinate with the Marketing and Communications team in Development and Alumni Relations to promote events and increase alumni engagement across regional and global communities Facilitate the organization and execution of events such as Dean visits and school specific alumni awards, ensuring alignment with both Alumni Relations and school/unit priorities Coordinate events, both small scale and large scale Manage an Assistant Director, Alumni Networks (Schools and Units) Perform all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions

Travel may be required for this position Will work with and supervise the efforts of volunteers involved in alumni relations activities

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.