Associate Director, Stewardship and Donor ; Annual Giving

Special Instructions to Applicants

All interested applicants should attach a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in a PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

Boasting a 300-acre tree‑lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6‑to‑1 undergraduate student‑to‑faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, courses and student government. Developing close‑knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

Stewardship and donor experience are key to fostering meaningful relationships between supporters and Rice University. Gratitude and clear communication of philanthropic impact help create a sense of belonging and partnership. By implementing a strategic plan, the team ensures stewardship efforts align with the diverse needs of donors, enhancing their connection to the university. Thoughtful recognition and personalized engagement make donors feel valued, inspiring continued support for Rice’s mission.

Reporting to the Director of Stewardship and Donor Experience (Annual Giving), the Associate Director of Stewardship and Donor Experience (Annual Giving) plays a vital role in advancing Rice’s culture of philanthropy. The position delivers tailored stewardship for leadership donors and recognition society members, ensuring each supporter feels valued and connected. Working closely with campus partners, the Associate Director designs and executes targeted content via multifaceted campaigns that demonstrate impact, spark meaningful connections, and build lasting commitment.

The ideal candidate is a relationship builder who combines organizational strength with a donor‑centered mindset. They should have exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, to deliver meaningful acknowledgments, articulate donor impact, and represent Rice University with confidence and professionalism.

This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in‑office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

* Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

• Bachelor’s degree
• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year‑for‑year basis may be substituted
• 2+ years of progressively responsible experience in donor relations, fundraising, alumni relations, or related fields
• In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year‑for‑year basis may be substituted

• Ability to develop and initiate new strategies
• Proven track record of building relationships and strategic partnerships
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Advanced data analysis skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Demonstrated self‑starter who works independently while thriving in collaborative, team‑oriented environments
• Adept at problem‑solving, creating contingency plans, and handling issues when necessary
• Strong client service orientation and good judgment and diplomacy
• Strong attention to detail and ability to quickly understand and remember details about alumni/donors and projects to which they are assigned
• Experience creating and implementing…