University Development; Corporate Relations Specialist

Overview

JOB PURPOSE

The purpose of this role is to develop and maintain corporate partnerships that support the university’s strategic initiatives. The role involves corporate engagement, joint research coordination, fundraising, sponsor ships, and event management to enhance university-industry collaboration. All activities must be aligned and in coordination with the CRD team and its Management.

• Corporate Partnership Development: Identify and establish partnerships with new corporate entities in coordination with the CRD team and its management. Implement strategies for corporate engagement and collaboration. Develop and implement a strategic plan to expand corporate partnerships that directly support increasing student enrolments and programmatic offerings.
• Research And Development Coordination: Facilitate joint research projects with corporate partners. Ensure alignment of research objectives with corporate interests and goals. Apply for grants and secure R&D funding.
• Corporate Fundraising And Sponsorship/Donations: Develop fundraising strategies targeting corporate donors in coordination with CRD team and its members. Secure sponsor ships for university events and campaigns from corporate entities. Cultivate relationships with corporate donors to secure donations and endowments. Manage and report on the use of corporate donations to ensure accountability and transparency. Identify and research prospective partners in support of new business strategies.
• Event And Campaign Management: Plan and execute events and campaigns in collaboration with corporate partners. Manage corporate sponsor ships and ensure mutual benefits for both parties. Organize corporate-specific events to showcase university offerings. Implement, coordinate, and execute effective donor relations events and activities.
• Reporting And Coordination: Develop business development proposals and build a strong/new database, and introduce new fundraising initiatives. Assist with preparing student reports, extracting grades, and supporting student calling projects. Coordinate student sponsor ships as needed. Maintain yearly KPIs by ensuring weekly progress reports are prepared and submitted to the Associate Director, tracking task completion and performance metrics.

Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field. Master’s degree in business or a related field preferred.

Minimum of 5 years of experience in partnership development, corporate relations, fundraising, or a related role, preferably within higher education or public sector.

• Demonstrated experience in building and managing strategic relationships with private sector entities and public sector stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to advise and implement corporate engagement strategies.
• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with corporate partners.
• Clear understanding of sponsor ships, fundraising, and corporate partnerships in an academic setting.
• Familiarity with research grant applications and funding opportunities.
• Willingness to work flexible hours based on the needs of the university and corporate partners.

Proficiency in English is required;
Arabic is preferred.

• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in event planning and corporate fundraising strategies.
• Analytical skills to assess partnership opportunities and funding potential.
• Experience in designing and delivering training programs.

Key Internal Contacts: ADU internal stakeholders.
Key External Contacts:

• Office-based with frequent external meetings and event participation.
• Flexibility to travel for corporate engagement and fundraising activities.