Assistant Director, Annual Giving

Summary

The Assistant Director of Annual Giving is focused on managing and enhancing annual fundraising campaigns and plays a key role in increasing donor participation and engagement, especially among alumni, parents, and other constituents, to ensure the university meets its annual giving targets. The role often includes both strategic and tactical responsibilities, with a focus on donor cultivation, stewardship, and campaign management.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description. These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of annual giving campaigns, including direct mail, email appeals, telefunding programs, and digital fundraising initiatives.
• Develop and execute specific strategies for growing annual giving from key donor segments such as alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends of the institution.
• Set and track progress toward annual giving goals, ensuring campaigns are on target to meet revenue and participation targets.
• Manage a portfolio of marketing projects for UF Alumni Association membership, Annual Giving programs, and small to medium size colleges and units.
• Cultivate relationships with key donors and potential major donors, moving them toward increased giving and long-term engagement.
• Ensure effective donor stewardship, including personalized thank-you communications, donor recognition programs, and impact reporting.
• Develop strategies for engaging alumni, parents, and friends in regular, recurring giving, while emphasizing the impact of their contributions.
• Work closely with the communications team to create compelling messaging for annual giving campaigns.
• Oversee the development of digital content, including website updates, social media posts, and email appeals.
• Ensure campaign materials align with the university’s brand and messaging, and that they are engaging to different donor groups.
• Assist with or lead events designed to engage donors, such as donor appreciation events, giving days, and alumni reunions.
• Manage logistics and communication efforts related to these events, ensuring smooth execution and positive donor experiences.
• Work cross-functionally with alumni relations, major gifts, planned giving, and other departments within the advancement office to ensure alignment of messaging and strategy.
• Participate in the broader fundraising strategy and help integrate annual giving efforts with capital campaigns, major gifts, and other advancement initiatives.

Education and Experience

Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and one year of relevant experience.

Licensure and Certification

N/A

Supervision

This position may have supervisory responsibility.

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