Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations, College of Agriculture

Position Overview

Penn State seeks a Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations for the College of Agricultural Sciences to engage alumni and friends as partners in supporting the college’s mission and fundraising objectives. This leadership role reports to an Assistant Vice President and provides strategic direction for all development and alumni relations activities.

• Articulate the college’s needs, ambitions, and values through exemplary communication, including written proposals.
• Identify and cultivate a pipeline of prospects for immediate and long‑term cultivation.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of fundraising, alumni relations, stewardship, and administrative professionals, fostering inclusive relationships that deliver results.
• Develop annual goals, plans, and budgets for a comprehensive, strategy‑driven fundraising and engagement program.
• Recruit and guide volunteers with meaningful roles in the fundraising process.
• Manage a portfolio of top prospects and execute solicitation strategies leading to major gifts.
• Travel extensively throughout the region and across the country to pursue strategies and build enduring relationships, tracked to a fixed, aggressive set of fundraising metrics.
• Serve as an ambassador for the college, its priorities, and values.

• Track record of securing major gifts and meeting fundraising goals.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to build relationships with sophisticated, high‑net worth audiences.
• Ability to create and maintain an inclusive, respectful environment for all students and colleagues.
• Experience managing and leading goal‑oriented teams and planning development strategies.
• Impeccable writing and presentation skills and proficiency with various technologies.
• Passion for higher education and an understanding of complex institutions.
• Commitment to professional development, learning, and mentoring.

Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of relevant experience, including 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. No certifications required.

DDAR supports flexible work arrangements when they align with the unit and essential duties of the position.

• Salary range: $ – $.
• Competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plans; paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time).
• Generous 75% tuition discount available to employees, eligible spouses, and children.

• Successful completion of background check(s) per university policy required.
• Position requires operation of a motor vehicle; a valid driver’s license and vehicle records check are required.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If an applicant is unable to use the online application process due to impairment or disability, the university will provide assistance upon request.