Associate Director of Affinity Engagement and Giving; Regional Programs

Associate Director Of Affinity Engagement & Giving (Regional Programs)

Amherst College invites applications for the Associate Director of Affinity Engagement & Giving (Regional Programs) position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $68,000 to $72,000.

The Associate Director of Affinity Engagement & Giving (Regional Programs) plays a key role in building vibrant regional, industry-based, and special-interest communities that connect alumni to Amherst College and to one another. The position manages a broad and evolving portfolio, including but not limited to regional programming, industry networks, special interest groups (such as Athletics), and signature initiatives like the Amherst–Williams Telecast, virtual industry and career programs, and targeted mini-campaigns that integrate engagement and philanthropy.

The Associate Director designs and delivers programs, events, and giving opportunities that strengthen lifelong connection and philanthropy.

Reporting to the Director of Affinity Engagement & Giving, the Associate Director provides strategic oversight for Amherst's major regional networks and select domestic and international communities. The role also serves as a liaison to campus partners—including but not limited to the Loeb Center for Career Exploration & Planning and the Office of Admission—to support programs such as Sophomore Summit, career treks, alumni panels, and other regionally based initiatives that connect alumni expertise with student learning and exploration.

In addition, the Associate Director partners with communications and fundraising colleagues on Giving Day participation and other philanthropic initiatives that span regional, affinity, and industry networks. Evening, weekend, and travel commitments are required for engagement-related events and programs.

The Associate Director of Affinity Engagement & Giving (Regional Programs) is a collaborative and strategically minded professional who advances alumni engagement and philanthropy through strong relationships, thoughtful volunteer partnership, and effective program execution. They bring sound judgment, autonomy, and a data-informed approach to planning, balancing multiple priorities while working productively across teams. A clear communicator and trusted partner, the Associate Director helps build welcoming, inclusive communities that strengthen connection to the College and support shared Advancement goals.

This role requires flexibility and a visible leadership presence, including availability for evening, weekend, and travel commitments in support of key engagement programs and events.

Advancement staff are expected to promote a positive, solutions-focused workplace culture through professional and constructive engagement in meetings, collaborations, and daily interactions. Advancement work also includes "all-hands-on-deck" events that require occasional evening and weekend participation to support key College events, including—but not limited to—Reunion and Homecoming.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Lead engagement strategy and programming for a portfolio of regional networks, industry groups, and special-interest communities, including affinity- and identity-based networks, professional groups, and athletic affiliations.
• Design and deliver inclusive, mission-aligned programs that strengthen connection among alumni, students, faculty, and campus partners through events, mentoring, storytelling, and other engagement opportunities.
• Recruit, train, and advise alumni volunteers; set clear expectations, maintain consistent communication, and align volunteer activity with engagement and philanthropic goals.
• Activate communities rooted in shared identity, interest, profession, or experience (e.g., athletics, arts, industry groups) to strengthen belonging and advance giving-related initiatives.
• Use data to strengthen volunteer pipelines, guide annual planning, and assess engagement and giving outcomes across assigned networks.
• Develop and coordinate targeted communications (invitations, tailored messaging, and post-event follow-up) that reinforce participation and long-term engagement.
• Manage budgets,…