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Executive Director of Development, Alumni Engagement & USC Associates

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA
Full Time
Executive
230k-240k
about 1 month ago

Job Description

About the Role

USC is seeking a proven fundraising leader and strategic relationship-builder to join the USC Alumni Association as Executive Director of Development, Alumni Engagement & USC Associates. Reporting to the Associate Senior Vice President for Alumni Relations, the role involves shaping and leading a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the USC Alumni Association and USC Associates, managing top prospects, leading a team, overseeing budgets, and serving as a key partner in alumni engagement and philanthropy efforts. This position offers an opportunity to strengthen the culture of philanthropy among Trojans, steward alumni, and elevate alumni programs in a hybrid work environment requiring on-site presence, travel, and occasional evening/weekend work.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop, lead, and implement a comprehensive multi-year case for support, strategy development, forecasting, and performance management for USCAA and USC Associates fundraising efforts.
  • Position USCAA and USC Associates as organizations with a strong commitment to philanthropy and significantly increase fundraising for operations, scholarships, and other priorities.
  • Oversee the team's budget and be fiscally responsible for resources allocated to fundraising programs.
  • Manage and supervise team members, communicate vision and expectations, and provide opportunities for professional growth through feedback, training, and leadership development.
  • Represent the university and alumni association professionally both internally and externally.
  • Manage a portfolio of 75-100 top prospects, including board members and loyal alumni, with an annual fundraising goal of $2M-$5M.
  • Create a strategic plan for USC Associates to grow membership and endowment through personal solicitation, renewals, and new member acquisition.
  • Develop a reunions fundraising program, personally solicit prospects, and coordinate with development officers.
  • Manage the USC Associates board, including planning meetings and events, developing stewardship programs, and ensuring goals are met to enhance member experience and increase scholarships.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or combined experience/education as a substitute.
  • Minimum of seven to ten years of professional experience in frontline fundraising and program development.
  • Strong knowledge and experience with board and volunteer management.
  • Demonstrated strategic leadership, planning, and change management skills with sound judgment.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, including preparing reports and delivering presentations.
  • Ability to manage large volumes of information and inquiries professionally.
  • Proficient analytical and problem-solving skills, with experience in data analysis, project management, and strategic decision-making.
  • Thorough knowledge of Advancement, current marketing trends, including digital strategies/technologies.
  • Experience with Salesforce, Microsoft applications, web, and new media technology.

Nice to Have

  • 10 years of experience in fundraising and alumni engagement, program management, or related fields.
  • Master's degree.
  • Advanced knowledge of current affairs and issues in higher education.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • 7+ years of experience in fundraising or related fields.
  • Preferred: Master's degree and 10+ years of relevant experience.

Benefits & Perks

  • Salary range of $230,000 - $240,000.
  • Benefits-eligible employees receive a broad range of benefits supporting health, wealth, and future.
  • Additional details available through USC's benefits offerings.

Working at University of Southern California

USC is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunity, fostering an environment where staff and stakeholders can connect, belong, and grow while supporting the university's mission, values, and goals. The organization values collaboration, integrity, and professional development, emphasizing a culture of philanthropy and alumni engagement.

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Job Details

Posted AtJun 25, 2025
Job CategoryPublic Relations
Salary230k-240k
Job TypeFull Time
Work ModeHybrid
ExperienceExecutive

Job Skills

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About University of Southern California

Website

usc.edu

Company Size

10000+ employees

Location

Los Angeles, CA

Industry

Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools

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