Executive Director, Advancement Events & External Relations

Auburn University, United States

Updated: about 2 months ago
Location: Auburn, ALABAMA
Deadline: ;

Position Details
Position Information


Requisition Number S3340P
Home Org Name Chief Engagement Officer
Division Name Senior VP, Advancement
Position Title Executive Director, Advancement Events & External Relations
Job Class Code OB20
Appointment Status Full-time
Part-time FTE
Limited Term No
Limited Term Length
Job Summary
Auburn Advancement is excited to begin the search for an Executive Director of Advancement Events and External Relations! This leader will oversee all aspects of Advancement events and external relations, including corporate foundation relations. Responsible for ensuring that donors are properly stewarded and informed in all aspects of donor relations, in support of efforts to cultivate long-term loyalty and commitment.
Why Should YOU Choose Auburn University?
  • Auburn University was named a “Best in Alabama” employer by Forbes! Our employee longevity speaks for itself, with employees staying an average of ten years.
  • Competitive state benefits including retirement plan vesting at 10 years of service, generous leave accrual, and parental leave opportunity.
  • Auburn University tuition assistance for yourself and your dependents. Employees can take 15 hours of classes for free, and dependents receive a 50% tuition waiver.


It’s a Lifestyle: The Auburn/Opelika area is a page right out of Southern Living magazine with an idyllic small-town feel, perfecting a unique balance between a close-knit community and driving consistent growth and development. Paralleling the exponential growth of Auburn University, the Auburn/Opelika area boasts services and amenities that cater to any interest. We’re proud of our top school systems, city services, award-winning restaurants, and the infectious spirit of life in a college town. You can find us nestled halfway between the beach and the mountains in a lower-cost-of-living area, two hours outside of Atlanta or Birmingham. If you’re new to Auburn, we’d love to introduce you. If you’re already acquainted with Auburn, we’ll keep it simple: it’s time to come home!
Our Commitment: Auburn University is committed to a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Visit auburn.edu/inclusion to learn more about our commitment to expanding equity and inclusion for all.
Essential Functions
  • Develops and implements a comprehensive events strategy that supports Auburn Advancements fundraising and engagement goals.
  • Plans, executes, and oversees a wide range of events, to ensure high quality and meaningful experiences.
  • Oversees the collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure seamless event logistics, from budget management to marketing and communication efforts.
  • Identifies and researches potential corporate and foundation prospects for strategic engagement.
  • Develops and manages a portfolio of high-level corporate and foundation donors, creating customized proposals and stewardship plans.
  • Leads the Donor Relations staff to conceptualize and coordinate an integrated and comprehensive donor relations and stewardship program that appropriately and consistently promotes interaction and connection with and recognition of donors at all levels.
  • Leads, mentors, and manages a team of professionals, providing guidance and support in executing advancement events and external relations strategies.
  • Fosters a collaborative and innovative team culture that encourages creativity and excellence in donor and partner engagement.
  • Collaborates with the Chief Engagement Officer to contribute to the development of Auburn Advancement goals and objectives.
  • Develops and implements stewardship plans to acknowledge and retain donors as well as corporate partners.
  • The nature of this role is highly externally focused, requiring frequent travel and meeting on and off campus during regular and non-traditional business hours, the role is expected to operate with high levels of autonomy.

Minimum Qualifications


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 10 years of experience in advancement, fundraising, external relations, and corporate foundation relations with a minimum of 5 of direct leadership experience.

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications


Minimum Skills and Abilities
Minimum Technology Skills
Minimum License and Certifications

Desired Qualifications


Desired Qualifications

Posting Detail Information


Salary Range $97,500-$185,300
Job Category Development/Alumni Affairs
Working Hours if Non-Traditional Monday - Friday: 7:45am - 4:45pm, some nights, weekends, and outside office hours required.
City position is located in: Auburn
State position is located: Alabama
List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position
Posting Date 01/24/2024
Closing Date
EEO Statement
Auburn University is committed to an inclusive and diverse campus environment. Women, underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Quick Link for Internal Postings https://www.auemployment.com/postings/43034

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