The George Washington University · 1 month ago
Director of Donor Relations
The George Washington University’s Division of University Advancement is seeking a strategic and experienced Director of Donor Relations. This role is essential in fostering a culture of philanthropy and enhancing donor engagement through a comprehensive donor relations program that includes acknowledgment, stewardship, recognition, and engagement activities.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Lead a comprehensive donor reporting program for the university that communicates the impact of philanthropic support and provides critical operational support to acknowledgments, recognition, and engagement activities as directed and required
Develop and execute timely, accurate, and meaningful donor relations activities including customized impact reports, endowed faculty installations, and donor recognition and engagement events that demonstrate the value and impact of philanthropic contributions
Develop an annual donor reporting plan using data-driven decision-making and employ metrics and data analysis to allocate team resources strategically
Oversee implementation and development of university-wide stewardship policies and procedures
Directly manage and mentor a team of donor relations professionals. Provide coaching and performance feedback, and oversee hiring and training to ensure a high-performing and collaborative team environment
Partner with stakeholders across the university, such as AVPs, deans, Faculty, financial aid offices, and program leaders to gather data and refine input provided into donor-optimized formats while maintaining collegial and professional working relationships with all colleagues
Oversee financial aid stewardship activities via the Blackbaud Award Management system (“GWay”) and work closely with the Director of Donor Fund Compliance and the Office of the Executive Vice President and Treasurer (EVPT) to maximize donor fund utilization in accordance with donor intent
Oversee all donor impact report production and communications using the Mythos platform online survey tool to deliver a digital-first experience for donors and fund contacts
Perform other related duties as assigned. Flexibility is required as duties may evolve in response to organizational needs
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization plus 6 years of relevant professional experience, or a Master's degree in a relevant area of study plus 4 years of relevant experience
Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position
Degree requirements may be substituted with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-phase projects and successfully meet tight deadlines
High degree of discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential donor information
Exceptional writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills
Proven leadership and team management experience
Strong customer service orientation and ability to work collaboratively across departments
Preferred
Advanced proficiency with fundraising software, donor databases, and Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel)
Experience engaging with major and leadership-level donors
Special event planning experience desired
Benefits
Medical
Dental
Vision
Life & disability insurance
Time off & leave
Retirement savings
Tuition
Well-being
Various voluntary benefits
Company
The George Washington University
The George Washington University
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Recent News
2025-05-02
2025-04-14
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