Director of Business Engagement

Director of Business Engagement

Posting Number: S14464P
Working Title: Director of Business Engagement
Department: DAR-Business Engagement

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia (UGA) is the birthplace of public higher education in America and the state’s flagship university (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). With more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements, UGA is committed to higher education. The main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton.

UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. Enrollment exceeds 41,000 students, including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including a newly established School of Medicine.

Division of Development and Alumni Relations: Advances the university’s goals by generating private financial support, building alumni and donor relationships, and assisting students with career development opportunities.
Office of Business Engagement: Cultivates long‑term partnerships with companies by aligning university resources with business goals, focusing on research and innovation, student recruitment, and philanthropic giving.

Posting Type: External
Retirement Plan: TRS or ORP
Employment Type: Employee – Full Time
Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible
Schedule: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; must work evenings and weekends as necessary
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Proposed Starting Date: 02/01/2026
Location: Athens, GA

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with accessibility during this search may contact Central HR at hrweb.

The University System of Georgia’s core values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do. Additional policy references can be found online at USG Policy Manual – Section 8.2.18 and Board Policy 6.5 – Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

• Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience plus 5 years of professional experience.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and 7 years of experience in philanthropy, research & development, sales, business development, or economic development.
  • A graduate degree from an accredited institution and more than 5 years of experience in philanthropy, research & development, sales, business development, or economic development.
  • Understanding of higher education’s mission and its intersection with economic development.
  • Understanding of regional, national, and global industry trends and their implications for university research and education.

The Director of Business Engagement is a member of the Office of Business Engagement team and plays a key role in fostering new, significant, long‑term partnerships with industry. The Director focuses on building strategic, long‑term university relationships with prospective and emerging industry partners, identifying opportunities for corporate investment, support, and collaboration, and maintaining strong internal relationships with faculty, staff, and administrators.

• Understanding of fundraising principles and practices.
• Understanding of business development strategies and tactics.
• Ability to identify new leads and opportunities for business development and/or partnership.
• Ability to establish and steward productive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to conceive, organize, and manage complex projects and programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively (written and oral) and respectfully with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to translate…