What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Annual Giving position at Slippery Rock University Advancement?
The Director of Annual Giving is a member of the Engagement Team and is responsible for planning, directing, and implementing a comprehensive annual giving program that engages alumni, faculty and staff, parents, students, and friends of the University. This position develops and executes strategies to secure broad-based operating support, strengthen donor participation, and enhance the culture of philanthropy across all university constituencies.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Strategy and Leadership
- Plan, manage, and execute the University’s Annual Giving campaign, including all aspects of design, direct mail, electronic outreach, and personal solicitation to secure annual support.
- Oversee development, content, messaging, production, and distribution of materials designed to maximize participation and giving outcomes.
- In partnership with the Senior Director, establish annual fundraising goals for dollars raised, participation rates, and donor retention; assess progress and adjust strategies to ensure success.
- Prepare and submit an annual plan of operation with quantifiable objectives, and report regularly on activities, outcomes, and program impact.
Campaign and Appeal Management
- Create and manage a comprehensive annual giving calendar and appeal schedule that leverages multiple channels, including direct mail, email, digital platforms, social media, and events.
- Spearhead special fundraising initiatives and micro-campaigns in collaboration with development and communications colleagues.
- Lead planning and implementation of the University’s Annual Giving Day, engaging faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members in a unified philanthropic effort.
- Support the Rock Athletic Club and Letterman’s Club through coordinated appeals and marketing materials.
Donor Relations
- Work closely with the Stewardship Manager to plan donor recognition, cultivation, and stewardship activities that deepen engagement and loyalty.
Collaboration and Integration
- Partner with advancement colleagues to align annual giving efforts with major gifts, planned giving, and alumni engagement strategies.
- Coordinate with campus organizations, academic departments, and athletics to develop and manage crowdfunding campaigns.
- Assist with Advancement events and initiatives that enhance donor engagement and fulfill departmental objectives.
- Coordinate giving communications with the alumni engagement team.
Operational Oversight
- Manage relationships with external vendors and partners supporting the annual giving program (e.g., GiveCampus, Double the Donation).
- Develop and manage University Advancement and SRU Foundation online giving pages.
- Recruit, train, and supervise student workers or interns as needed to support campaign operations.
- Maintain accurate donor and campaign data, track performance metrics, and implement continuous improvement based on analysis and outcomes.
- Oversee annual giving student workers.